One of Plymouth’s most cherished institutions, Margaret McMillan Nursery School, is marking its 90th anniversary with a big community celebration this Saturday (21 September).
Founded in 1935 by Lady Nancy Astor, Britain’s first female MP to take her seat in the House of Commons, the nursery on Plymouth Hoe has given generations of local children the best possible start in life.
This weekend’s Celebration Open Event runs from 12pm to 4pm, inviting past and present families to come together, share memories and honour this special part of Plymouth’s history.
A legacy that began in 1935
The nursery was founded by Lady Nancy Astor, Britain’s first female MP to take her seat in the House of Commons. She was passionate about children’s welfare and wanted to give Plymouth families access to quality early years education.
Inspired by educational pioneers Rachel and Margaret McMillan, Lady Astor purchased and converted 24 Hoe Street on Plymouth Hoe into the city’s very first day nursery school. From the start, it was a place where children could grow in confidence, build friendships and enjoy a safe, nurturing environment.
Still thriving in 2025
Today, Margaret McMillan Nursery continues as a non-profit charitable trust, staying true to the values it was founded on. The nursery is led by a dedicated team and a board of trustees who ensure children receive not just education, but also care, kindness and community.
Nursery manager Sharon Cantwell said:
“It’s such a privilege to be leading Margaret McMillan Nursery as we mark this incredible 90-year milestone,”
“I’ve been here for 12 years now and it really is a special place. We’re traditional in many ways, but we also keep up with the times and the latest research. In the last few years, we’ve brought in lots of new ideas for the children, things like Montessori-inspired activities and more outdoor play in our beautiful garden. We’re so lucky to have that space, right in the heart of Plymouth.
What really makes us different though is the people and the atmosphere. That hasn’t changed. We’ve had families coming here for years, then their younger children join too – it feels like a proper family and that’s something parents really love.
For us, it’s all about helping each child grow in confidence, curiosity and independence. We keep evolving but the values we were founded on – care, kindness and community – are still at the heart of everything we do.”
A place filled with memories
For many families, the nursery has been a constant across generations. Janie Achilles, Chair of Trustees, explained:
“Margaret McMillan Nursery has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I attended as a child, and all three of my own children came here too.
It’s a place that holds so many special memories for my family and for countless others across Plymouth.
I’ve had the privilege of being on the board of trustees for 24 years and Chair for 22 years of those and I’m incredibly proud to help carry forward the values that make this nursery so special. As we celebrate 90 years, it’s heartening to see that same sense of care, community and childhood joy still at the heart of everything we do.”
A celebration for the community
To mark the 90th anniversary, the nursery is hosting a Celebration Open Event on Saturday 20th September, from 12pm to 4pm, inviting past and present families to come together, share stories and celebrate this special part of Plymouth’s history.
