At Emma’s Explorers Out of School Service, we are proud to be a small, family-run business with deep roots in our local community and a genuine passion for making a difference.
Our journey began when we were approached by the Dunning Hall Group, a dedicated local charity working to take over ownership of the village hall. Without a childcare service in place, the hall itself was at risk of being lost — something that would have had a huge impact on our community. As a local family, this really resonated with us. This is our home, our community, and we wanted to play a part in protecting a space that means so much to so many.
Emma’s Explorers has been created not only to provide a safe, nurturing, and fun childcare service, but also to help sustain the future of the village hall. By running our service here, we are helping to cover its running costs and ensure it remains a thriving hub for children, families, and the wider community for years to come.
Our roots are firmly planted here. We know the families, the school, and the importance of having a space where children can grow, explore, and feel a sense of belonging. That’s where the inspiration for our tree logo comes from. Trees are a powerful symbol of growth, strength, and community — just like what we are trying to build. From strong roots comes growth, and with the right care and support, children can flourish, branch out, and reach their full potential. We see Emma’s Explorers as that foundation — a place where children are supported as they grow, while staying connected to their community.
We are a privately run and fully self-funded service, meaning we don’t receive any government funding or financial backing. Everything we’ve created has come from hard work, determination, and a real love for what we do. This has truly been a labour of love.
The Dunning Hall Group has been incredible throughout this journey, offering ongoing support and securing funding through the local Stepping Stones fund, held by the Dunning Community Association. This has provided us with essential resources including pool tables, bean bags, WiFi, and sporting equipment — helping us create a welcoming, engaging, and comfortable environment for the children.
While the official handover of the hall from the council is still ongoing, we are hopeful that the finish line is now in sight — an exciting moment for the whole community.
Behind Emma’s Explorers is a highly experienced and dedicated team, each bringing their own unique skills, care, and enthusiasm. We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive space where every child feels valued and supported, and where families feel part of something bigger. We’ll be introducing our amazing team very soon, so keep an eye out!
We are fully registered with the Care Inspectorate, SSSC registered, fully insured, and trained to the highest standards — but beyond that, our mission is to build connections, support local families, and keep the village hall at the heart of our community.
Emma’s Explorers is more than just a childcare service — it’s about planting seeds, nurturing growth, and building something that will last for generations to come 🌱