The Ark a new-style Childcare Academy based in Mytholmroyd, which provides early years training and qualifications up to degree level for the upper valley area of Calderdale, reaching into Hebden Bridge and Todmorden. The Ark Day Nursery, founded six years ago by Heidi Bingham and Jo Brock, has proved hugely successful and now offers over 200 childcare places with a high staff to child ratio.

The Ark Childcare Academy, a partnership between the Ark Day Nursery at Dean Hey Farm in Cragg Road and Calderdale College. The Ark offers purpose-built, modern and professional learning facilities within the nursery building, combined with on-site delivery and assessments by Calderdale College childcare lecturers. Learners are able to study within a real working environment, avoiding a journey into College in the centre of Halifax. The Academy is already providing training to the Ark’s own staff and is now opening its doors to other childcare providers and individuals.

As part of our commitment to a quality workforce we are now able to link more closely with a commercial nursery and their learners to bring the childcare NVQs to life.

Tutorials are delivered by the College teaching staff in a newly built annex with dedicated computer facilities and other modern teaching technology. NVQ assessments are undertaken by qualified Ark staff to ensure that every opportunity is taken to review the progress of the candidates.

If you are an employer who wants to provide quality training for your staff, or an individual wishing to take advantage of training and work placement opportunities at The Ark Academy, contact Jane Hendy on 01422 399325 or janeh@calderdale.ac.uk

The Ark set sail in 2000 when we, Jo Brock and Heidi Bingham as two friends and new mothers, were faced with the search for childcare for our own children.

When we could not find our 'perfect' place we took the bold step of creating it for ourselves and we are very proud that every decision we make and have made, centres around what we would want for our own children. Over the years, we have found that our beliefs and standards are shared by many parents.