Sheffield Hallam welcomes Prime Minister to partnership led nursery and early years research centre

The Meadows Nursery and Early Years Community Research Centre is a unique partnership involving Sheffield Hallam University, Save the Children UK, Watercliffe Meadow Primary School and Sheffield City Council.

The award-winning community nursery provides free early learning places to local children in Shirecliffe, an economically challenged part of the city, as well as being a hub for wider support for parents and families. It is also a hub for research into early education best practice and innovation which is carried out with the support of families and carers.  

The Prime Minister spoke to families who told him about the impact the nursery has made to their lives since it opened in 2021. He also met the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Liz Mossop, and Professor Sally Pearse, Strategic Lead for Early Years at Sheffield Hallam University, who was instrumental in establishing the nursery and research centre.

The visit took place alongside local leaders including South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, Gill Furniss, MP for Brightside and Hillsborough, and Fran Belbin, Leader of Sheffield City Council.

Speaking during the visit, Prime Minister Andy Burnham MP said: “What an amazing place you have here. You can feel it walking through the door, what a welcoming place this is. 

“Well done to Sheffield Hallam University. It’s great to get universities involved on the ground supporting people and families. It’s a credit to you and all the partners and the community.”

During the visit, the Prime Minister announced plans to transfer power from Westminster to devolved regions by allowing elected mayors to keep a share of income tax generated in their area for the first time, starting from 2028, as well as business rates by April 2027.

Professor Liz Mossop, Sheffield Hallam University Vice Chancellor, said: “We were delighted that the new Prime Minister and senior cabinet ministers chose to combine their announcements on their plans for devolution with a visit to our award-winning community nursery and early years research centre.

“The nursery and research centre are a shining example of what can be achieved when strategic partners come together to work in collaboration with communities to improve outcomes.

“I am sure the passion and dedication of those involved in this project will have left a huge impression on our country’s new leaders. I hope it has given them a real insight into the significant impact universities make in the regions they serve through their collaborative research and innovation partnerships."