Hull families with two-year-olds are being welcomed to a series of special Open Launch Events this November, celebrating the arrival of six new Early Explorers nursery settings across the city.
Taking place on Saturday, November 22, and Saturday, November 29, the events give parents the chance to explore the new environments, join fun Early Explorer activities, and take part in a community treasure hunt.
Families who register for a place on the day will also receive a free welcome pack including a branded uniform and a sun cap.
These events mark an exciting moment for early years provision in Hull, as The Constellation Trust officially opens the doors to six purpose-built Early Explorers spaces at Appleton, Bricknell, Francis Askew, Paisley, Rokeby Park and Stoneferry Primary Schools.
(Image: The Constellation Trust)
Expanding access to early education
The Trust has played a significant role in expanding two-year-old nursery provision across the city.
It secured three of the five Department for Education-funded Early Years capital projects awarded in Hull, making it the only trust in Yorkshire and the Humber to achieve this level of investment.
In addition, three further developments have been delivered in partnership with Hull City Council, creating a joined-up network of early learning spaces for local families.
This combined investment means more children across the city can access high-quality early education close to home, helping families find the support and consistency that makes the early years so important.
Calming, creative spaces
Every Early Explorers setting has been carefully designed using the same thoughtful principles.
Rooms are calm, light and natural, giving young children space to explore at their own pace.
Textures, small-world areas, role-play corners and cosy reading spaces encourage discovery through play.
At the centre of each room stands the Early Explorers reading tree – a gentle symbol of imagination and language development that brings the spaces together.
(Image: The Constellation Trust)
Early Explorers in action
Bricknell Primary was rated Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted in March 2025.
A previously underutilised area of a former children’s centre has been transformed into an inviting nursery environment for two- and three-year-olds, featuring visible toileting and changing areas for safe supervision, a sensory room, and a dedicated meeting space.
Open since September, Bricknell already offers wraparound care for working families, with autumn places filled and demand rising for spring.
Stoneferry Primary has also created a warm, village-school feel in a city setting, quickly becoming a valued part of the school community since opening in September.
At Paisley Primary, a full rebuild of a modular building has created a bright new space opening this January, designed with strong community connections in mind.
Appleton, Rokeby Park, and Francis Askew Primary Schools have each benefited from Local Authority investment, helping expand early years access in areas where additional places were needed.
(Image: The Constellation Trust)
How families can get involved
Families with two-year-olds eligible for funded early education are encouraged to contact their nearest Early Explorers setting to arrange a visit or register for a Spring 2026 place.
The Open Launch Events at Bricknell and Stoneferry are scheduled for November 22, while the events for the other schools take place on November 29.
They offer a perfect chance to explore the rooms, meet staff, and experience the Early Explorers approach first-hand.
Further details, including eligibility information for two-year-old funding, can be found at theconstellationtrust.org.uk