A SAD FAREWELL TO RAINBOW PRE-SCHOOL

Along with many other parents in the community, I said a sad farewell to Rainbow Pre-school in Cookham on Sunday, during a celebration tea and thanksgiving service. Anyone who has had a connection with Rainbow - staff and Rainbow families - over the past 27 years attended the lovely gathering to reminisce about happy times, pour over old photographs and share in a special church service as well as afternoon tea.

Rainbow will be closing its doors on Monday as unfortunately it is no longer financially viable. The pre-school is a committee-run, not-for-profit-making organisation with charitable status under Cookham Rise Methodist Church.

Rainbow took children from age two until they go to school, but with the introduction of children starting primary education when they’re four, and such a wide range of nursery options available in the village, Rainbow has suffered the knock-on effects. Therefore, the Church Council had to make the difficult decision to close the pre-school.

Rainbow toddler group was the first place I went to with my daughter, Mya, in Cookham. The people there were so welcoming, I knew that when Mya was old enough, I would send her to the pre-school for a morning or two. The staff are warm and caring, and I felt reassured leaving her there for her first experience away from home. And she loved it! Her confidence and learning came on in leaps and bounds, and she has made some firm friendships.

I'd like to say thank you to Kathy Rickman, who jointly founded the organisation with Mary Heap in 1987, aided by Cookham Rise Methodist Church, and all the staff who have worked so hard, been so dedicated and supportive, and who gave our children a great start. I feel privileged that our family was able to be a part of it all. Thank you.

Cookham Rise resident Kathy Rickman, who is now Chairman, says: ‘Rainbow can be proud that, over the years, it has been a wonderful place for very many young children to have their first experiences of being with other caring adults in a group situation. Play is children’s work and I have many happy and amusing memories of children at play, the fun and laughter, the things they say as they try to make sense of the world, and the awesomeness of how they learn and develop and gain in confidence with the help of supportive and experienced staff. All the staff have a long association with the pre-school and there will be many families who have appreciated their support and advice, as well as a listening ear and kind word when needed. Parents have expressed the love and friendship they have experienced at Rainbow. Rainbow will be sadly missed by us all.’

Rainbow has served a useful need in the village for so long, it will not be forgotten. And I hope the last few days are both memorable and enjoyable for both the staff and the Rainbow families.