London nursery school portfolio acquired by education group

A London-based chain of nursery schools has been snapped up by an education group in a new acquisition.

The Kindergartens has been acquired by Dukes Education in a deal supported by real estate advisor Gerald Eve.

Founded by Carol Evelegh and her late husband Philip over 30 years ago, the Kindergartens began with six pupils.

The group has grown to approximately 500 pupils across 10 sites in locations, including Kensington, Fulham, Wandsworth, Clapham, Battersea and Notting Hill.

Carol Evelegh commented: “After 44 years of teaching in the state and independent sectors, in prep schools and in nursery schools, the time was right for a new challenge and so I took the decision to sell The Kindergartens.

“It was always going to be difficult for me to ‘let go’ of a business Philip started and then we as a family had run. The Kindergartens has been a huge part of our lives and more than just a business to us – it was like an extended family.

“Dukes Education has great leadership; I have no doubt that the nursery schools are in excellent hands and that The Kindergartens’ exceptional standards will be maintained.”

Aatif Hassan, chairman of Dukes Education, said: “I am delighted The Kindergartens, a group of nurseries I have long admired, is joining the Dukes family.

“I believe their knowledge of, and commitment to, early-years education to be exemplary. In addition, many of our existing Dukes schools and nurseries already have strong relationships with the Kindergarten nurseries.

“The Kindergartens will make a fantastic addition to the Dukes family and together we can continue our mission to set the gold standard for early-years education, in London and further afield.”