Foresight Group has invested £3.5 million in Little Rays Limited, a prominent nursery group in Northern Ireland, to support its growth and succession planning efforts in a rapidly expanding childcare market.

Information on the Target

Little Rays Limited, established in 1993 by Michelle and Kieron Rea, is a distinguished nursery group operating in Northern Ireland. The company runs three full-daycare sites and one independent pre-school, catering to children between the ages of two months and 12 years. With a commitment to quality care and education, Little Rays currently supports approximately 400 children and employs over 100 staff across Lisburn, Ballymena, and Moira. Its strong emphasis on child-led learning has contributed to its outstanding reputation in early years education throughout its over three decades of operation.

The nursery group is recognized for its high standards and nurturing environment, which have made it a preferred choice for families in the region. The substantial investment from Foresight Group is intended to enhance Little Rays’ capabilities in succession planning and to facilitate its ambitious growth strategy.

Industry Overview in Northern Ireland

The childcare industry in Northern Ireland is characterized by its fragmentation, with a multitude of independent operators and limited consolidation to date. This fragmented landscape occurs against a backdrop of rising de