My son, Archie, has always been a source of immense pride and joy for our family. In spite of his struggles, he has shown tremendous progress at Seedlings, a nursery catering specifically to children with special needs in Doncaster. Unfortunately, this precious haven for children like Archie faces imminent closure. Seedlings is not merely a nursery, but a lifeline that enables children to learn, grow, and manoeuvre through life with their unique abilities. Archie is non-verbal and on the autism pathway, with health and social needs that prevent him from attending a mainstream nursery. Without an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) in place and only a three-month notice, we, like many other families, face a daunting situation with Seedlings' closure- a home-bound child with no suitable nursery placement.

The dedicated staff at Seedlings are highly trained and experienced in providing specialised care, education, and support for children with diverse and complex needs. Their expertise ensures that each child receives tailored care, helping them to thrive in an environment that understands their unique challenges. 

Children with special needs in Doncaster rely on Seedlings. The nursery’s closure will inevitably disrupt their education, growth, and overall well-being. The council's abrupt announcement neglects to consider the long-term effects of such a closure on these children and their families. Surely, we cannot let our children's future become a collateral damage of administrative decisions.

It is evident that the council has overlooked the urgency of implementing alternatives or having EHCPs in place for children transitioning to specialist schools next year. Also, the lack of suitable provisions for these children post-closure underlines a gaping hole in our system.

Therefore, we, the parents and concerned community members, urge Doncaster Council to reconsider their decision and halt the closure of Seedlings nursery. We demand a comprehensive plan that caters to the unique needs of these children and ensures their continued growth and development. Please sign this petition to show your support for Archie, his friends at Seedlings, and all children with special needs in Doncaster. Together, we can ensure a brighter future for our children.