East Lothian outdoor nursery demonstrates commercial potential of off-grid childcare with support from Business Gateway
A fully outdoor, off-grid early years nursery in Dunbar is demonstrating how sustainable childcare models can succeed commercially, as Dunbar Outdoor Learning responds to growing demand for nature-based childcare, supported by Business Gateway East Lothian.
Founded by early years specialist Debbie Bligh, Dunbar Outdoor Learning provides outdoor education for children aged three to five, with learning delivered across woodland, garden and coastal environments in and around Dunbar. The nursery, which officially opened in May last year, operates year-round and places sustainability at the heart of its model, with children engaging in child-led play, exploration and practical activities that build confidence, resilience and creativity.
The nursery is powered off-grid using solar energy and rechargeable battery systems, with environmentally responsible practices embedded throughout daily operations. It currently supports up to 32 children per day and has attracted strong demand from local families seeking innovative, flexible childcare that aligns with sustainability values.
The nursery has been named in the Green Growth 100, an initiative by Small Business Britain in partnership with BT, which champions small business across the UK that embed sustainable practices in their operation.
Over the last three years, Debbie has received early-stage support from Business Gateway East Lothian, together with funding from East Lothian Council’s LA-CER New Business Support Grant and Employee Development Grant alongside a loan from East Lothian Investments Ltd. Through the Council’s Economic Development service, Debbie accessed HR and Marketing Expert Help and has benefitted from guidance from the Council’s planning team.
Business Gateway adviser, Irene Ramsay, worked closely with Debbie to support business planning, regulatory navigation and the transition from concept to operational nursery.
Building on its initial success, Dunbar Outdoor Learning has plans to expand its provision, including extending services to younger children and developing a second site within John Muir Country Park. Future ambitions also include after-school and holiday provision for children up to age 12, as well as the creation of a dedicated outdoor learning training centre to support workforce development in the sector.
Debbie Bligh, founder, Dunbar Outdoor Learning, said: “Outdoor learning allows children to develop confidence, independence and a genuine connection with the environment. Launching Dunbar Outdoor Learning has been about creating a setting where children can thrive while also demonstrating that sustainable, off-grid childcare can be commercially viable.
“Business Gateway has been instrumental in getting the nursery off the ground. Irene was my first point of contact and has been my absolute rock throughout the process, from pointing me in the right direction of who to speak with, to signposting me to available funding, it really wouldn’t have been possible without her support.”
Irene Ramsay, Business Gateway East Lothian adviser, said: “Dunbar Outdoor Learning is a strong example of an innovative business responding to demand for sustainable and flexible childcare. Debbie had a clear vision and real commitment, and our role was to help shape that into a viable business model, navigate the early challenges and support future growth. It’s really encouraging to see the positive response from families and the wider community.”