On Friday, 11 July, the UCL Day Nursery hosted a heart-warming graduation ceremony for 16 children, marking a milestone moment with music, laughter and proud tears.
The UCL Day Nursery was filled with celebration on Friday, 11 July, as children, families and staff came together to celebrate the achievements of our nursery leavers. The graduation ceremony recognised the remarkable growth and learning journeys of our young learners as they prepare to take their next big step.
The day began with an energetic African drumming performance - the culmination of a six-week workshop led by Mangotree Kids. It reflected the nursery’s commitment to offering children creative, culturally rich experiences that inspire and build confidence.
As part of the celebration, the children took centre stage to perform "You’ve Got a Friend in Me", "The Superhero Song", and "The Graduation Song". Families and staff beamed with pride as each child stood confidently, showcasing not only what they had practised but how far they had come during their time at the nursery.
Following the performances, each child was individually celebrated with a medal and a personalised certificate presented by Catherine Burtenshaw, Head of Early Years Services at UCL Nursery, recognising their unique journey and achievements. The ceremony concluded with a relaxed summer garden party, complete with a specially made graduation cake lovingly prepared by the nursery’s kitchen team.
The celebration was accompanied by heartfelt emotions shared by families, many of whom have been part of the nursery community for several years.
One parent captured the mixed feelings of this important day:
" Two and a half years of fun and care and science experiments with Nursery! I was suddenly gripped this morning by our approaching departure from all the safety and friendship the nursery has offered for four years. In general, I feel so carried into the future by Tristan’s appetite for life and by the excitement of entering a new stage in our adventures. But today, when Alex sat down behind Tristan on the steps so sweetly and mischievously, I felt a real pang of loss for the constancy and simplicity of that whole world."
A nurturing start in the heart of Bloomsbury
The UCL Day Nursery, based across two sites in Gordon Square, provides high-quality childcare and early years education for the children of UCL staff and students. Open for approximately 48 weeks a year, the nursery offers a safe, stimulating and inclusive environment where children are encouraged to explore, play and thrive.
Although the nursery is currently at full capacity, families are welcome to apply for a place and will be added to the waiting list. You can find more information about the nursery’s services and the application process here.
As we celebrate our nursery leavers and their achievements, we also look forward to welcoming new members into our community in September and supporting the start of their journeys.
- University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT (0) 20 7679 2000