A TAUNTON-based nursery is doubling its capacity at a new site thanks to a six-figure funding package from a major bank.

Little Explorers Day Nursery and Preschool Ltd, which caters for children from six months up to five years, has used HSBC UK funding to purchase and renovate a vacant former factory in Lisieux Way that previously housed Exmoor Plastics.

The HSBC UK-funded purchase of new premises will allow the business to increase the number of children it can care for at any one time from 10 to 53.

And it means the facility can now start to accept children from its waiting list.

Somerset County Gazette: Gemma Roberts-DyerGemma Roberts-Dyer (Image: Gemma Roberts-Dyer)

Little Explorers Childminding is anticipating the creation of 13 new jobs across apprenticeships, early years practitioners and leadership roles following the opening of the new site earlier in September.

Gemma Roberts-Dyer, the owner of Little Explorers Day Nursery and Preschool, said: “I’m so thrilled that we are able to expand our provision of childcare with HSBC UK support.

"The funding has made a massive contribution to the growth of Little Explorers and will allow the business to hire new staff and open more vacancies for local children.

"Being able to get involved with a child’s early years development drives my ambition to provide the very best care, service and staff development opportunities.

"I look forward to meeting all the new families and children who pass through the Little Explorers doors.”

Ryan Pope, relationship manager for business banking at HSBC UK, added: “It’s been a pleasure to support Little Explorers with this big next step in the growth of the business.

"We look forward to seeing Little Explorers Childminding thrive and continue to expand into the future.”

Little Explorers Day Nursery and Preschool, which was established in 2013, offers a range of activities including cooking, sensory play, outdoor games, and painting.

Ms Roberts-Dyer has been working in childcare services since 2007.

She previously worked as a designated lead for childcare in the Taunton area, working with new and existing childcare businesses as a mentor to assist with their business development.

The new premises has undergone minor alterations and features three playrooms, a sensory room, kitchen classroom and garden area.

It operates Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm 50 weeks a year apart from bank holidays.