HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh Visits Blackthorn Good Neighbour Nursery on 10th Anniversary 

HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh visit to Growing Together Northampton Nursery on 9 June 2025
HRH the Duchess of Edinburgh visited the nursery to celebrate its 10th Anniversary to early years education in the Eastern areas of Northampton.

Blackthorn Good Neighbours Nursery, a cherished local institution run by the charity Growing Together Northampton, proudly welcomed a royal visitor  that marks the nursery’s 10th anniversary.

The visit shone a spotlight on the transformative work the nursery has done since its doors opened in 2015 — educating and nurturing over 600 children

HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh Visit to Growing Together Northampton Nursery on 9 June 2025

The royal visit included a tour of the nursery’s vibrant learning spaces, time spent engaging with children, volunteers and staff from both the nursery and wider charity.

HRH The Duchess Of Edinburgh Visit to Growing Together Northampton Nursery on 9 June 2025
HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh visit to Growing Together Northampton Nursery on 9 June 2025

Since opening, Blackthorn Good Neighbours Nursery has twice received the highest possible recognition from OFSTED — an ‘Outstanding’ rating — a testament to its tireless commitment to excellence in early years education and its nurturing, inclusive environment.

HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh visit to Growing Together Northampton Nursery on 9 June 2025
HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh visit to Growing Together Northampton Nursery 9 June 2025

The visit was a moment of true celebration and validation for the dedicated nursery team, the families they support, and the wider Blackthorn community.

HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh visit to Growing Together Northampton Nursery on 9 June 2025
HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh visit to Growing Together Northampton Nursery on 9 June 2025

HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh unveiled a  plaque to commemorate her visit to the Growing Together Northampton Nursery on 9 June 2025