It’s the jewel in the crown of Corby’s childcare history.
Pen Green was founded in 1983 in a room above the Raven by Cllr Jimmy Kane and other people interested in giving young people in Corby a better start in life.
Based in the former Samuel Lloyd school, initially locals didn’t want the childcare facility there as they were worried about it attracting the ‘wrong sort of families’.
But since it opened, the facility has grown to become a world leader in its field.
It offers a nursery, a family centre, a range of helpful classes, groups and courses for parents and now it even has a higher education facility offering degrees for local parents.
And we’ve been there to capture it all on camera. Take a trip down memory lane with some wonderful images taken between 2005 and 2023 at the centre in Rockingham Road.
45. Pen Green through the years
A street parade celebrated Pen Green's opening way back in 1983 Photo: Doug Easton
46. Pen Green through the years
In 2008, Pen Green had to look for new homes for 200 babies after a giant African snail has given birth. From left are Olivia McKinnon, two, Tarik Kennedy, one and Yazmin Kennedy, three Photo: Doug Easton
47. Pen Green through the years
A 2009 visit by Children's Minister Dawn Primarolo. Pictured with children Olivia McKinnon, 3, Sophia Owens, 2, Yasmin Rose, 2, Elyssa Rose, (mum) and Ava Rose. Photo: Alan Castle
48. Pen Green through the years
Children playing in the nursery with Duplo after Ofsted gave Pen Green another 'outstanding' rating in 2010. Pictured are Kenzie McAlpine, 4, and Angelleigh Martin, 4. Photo: Alison Bagley