Now, Jack Lowden, the critically acclaimed star known for his roles in films such as “Fighting with My Family” has raised his voice in protest. He was instrumental in a successful Save Our Nurseries campaign to prevent five rural southern Scotland nurseries from closing. Lowden, who grew up in Oxton, went to Channelkirk nursery. His support must have really resonated with local parents as they banded together to save these crucial educational assets.
When budget cuts almost closed the nurseries there, parents were devastated and fearful. They were passionate defenders of their children’s early education and its long-term benefits. In response, a grassroots campaign launched, intending to make local leaders reverse their decision. Together, Lowden joined the cause and used his platform to help turn the tide. His Instagram post perfectly captured why these nurseries are so important for the community.
At an emergency special meeting on March 3, after facing increasing pressure from parents, the council made the right call. They passed an amended plan for the nurseries to remain open until at least the 2025/26 academic year. Instead, they took it a step further, opting to undo their 2018 vote to shutter the facilities. This news came as a huge relief for families throughout the district.
The new plan includes innovative models for early learning and childcare provision, which will enable the nurseries to operate throughout the next school year. Further, a working group will be formed to review and expand early learning and childcare access across southern Scotland. That group will be reporting back this coming October. Then they will make proposals for ways to keep and improve nursery services across the locality.
The council’s decision is a huge victory for parents and campaigners, many of whom worked around the clock to secure the future of these nurseries. Their efforts highlight the vital role that early childhood education plays in a child’s development and the importance of community involvement in local governance.
