The joyful singing of ‘Happy Birthday Dear Mrs Cameron Day Nursery’ rang out today (18 July) in the far corner of the Harvey Court Gardens, home to our much-loved College Nursery. The singing marked the 20th anniversary of the nursery, opened in 1999 to offer full-day care throughout the year for the working parents of the College – the first of its kind in the history of the University.

Following the visionary decision of the College Council of Caius in 1998, the nursery became a reality because of the hard work of Domestic Bursar, Mr Ian Herd (1996), and Nursery Manager, Mrs Elizabeth Wiggam. It is named to honour Mrs Elfrida Cameron, the Master’s wife from 1928 to 1948, who welcomed the young children of veteran students into the Master’s Lodge while their parents attended Sunday morning service in the College Chapel.

Over the years, fellows, staff and students have availed themselves of the care offered by the College nursery. It has received generous support from college members, which has allowed it to grow from its small Springfield annex to a large, bright and airy site. In 2002, an extension was possible due to a generous benefaction from Mr Bill Packer (1949), in memory of his late wife Annabel. Mr Packer’s benefaction was vital, for it enabled the nursery to expand its provision from twelve to twenty-five children. Another major step forward for the nursery came in 2003, when the College Council decided to contract the nursery to Elizabeth Wiggam’s company, Wigwam Nurseries.

Involved in the nursery from its genesis, 20 years ago, Elizabeth Wiggam is best placed to reflect on its progress and place in the College: “The nursery is a wonderful little community,” she said. “The children are very aware that they are a part of the college family. They encounter the Porters when we pick up the mail from the Harvey Court Porter’s Lodge and they plant seeds with the gardener in the college’s greenhouse. The children also enjoy a hot lunch, provided by the College kitchens and delivered by the outside Porters.”

The success of this college institution is not only reflected on the smiles of the children and teachers present at the celebration, but also in the latest Ofsted report. It described the nursery as “Outstanding” and noted, “A varied and well-planned educational programme enables all children to thrive and have every opportunity to achieve their full potential.”