A new pre-school that promises to support vegan lifestyles and teach children about sustainability is opening this September.

The Montessori-inspired venture is being launched by Little Acorns, which runs a community hub and play café in Sittingbourne, allowing parents and children to socialise over messy play.

Penny Maher, a 35-year-old mum-of-two, runs the club with sister-in-law, Therese Maher.

They began the play café when their children started school.

Therese said: “I’ve been working in pre-schools since 2004 and I’ve seen a need for more supportive settings around special educational needs (SEN), well-being and self confidence.

“We want professionals and families together in a calm, supportive and understanding environment.”

The Montessori method of education encourages children to develop natural interests and activities rather than use formal teaching methods.

The pre-school will have vegetarian and vegan options on its menu.

Penny and Therese are also trying to replace and eradicate single-use plastics and decrease their carbon footprint.

Therese added: “Our pre-school will have a Montessori-inspired curriculum building real life skills for greater independence and confidence.

“We will also have an eco-conscious and sustainable ethos to help inspire young minds to create a better future.”

Penny added: “Our hope is that these ideas will also inspire changes in our community.”

Therese and Penny are hoping to start the pre-school with 10 children, led by a qualified early years teacher and an SEN professional.

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The preschool will be in the same venue as The Play Café at the Old ISP building in Church Street. It will open between 8am and 3pm, and prices range from £8 to £21.