Children’s charity Youth Options says it is “determined to rebuild” after its woodland Little Owls preschool was left with “considerable damage” following a suspected arson attack this week.

The fire at the Eastleigh, Hampshire, based pre-school has destroyed a classroom, furniture, toys and woodland tools at its centre, which provides education to 42 children.

“The devastating incident has left children, families and the staff team heartbroken as they face the loss of an educational space that provided children with a unique opportunity to grow and develop through outdoor play and exploration,” said the charity.

The charity’s chief executive Madeleine Durie added: “This senseless act has robbed young children of a safe and inspiring space where they could learn and grow.

“Little Owls Preschool is more than just a place of education - it is a sanctuary where children build confidence, curiosity, and a love for the natural world.

“The impact of this fire reaches far beyond the physical damage; it has deeply affected the children, families, and staff who cherish this unique learning environment.

“Youth Options is determined to rebuild, but community support is crucial to making that happen.”

The charity has launched an appeal to raise £10,000 to help “cover costs of replacing everything that was lost so they can get up and running as quickly as possible”.

It is hoping its insurance will help but Durie added there “would inevitably be a significant shortfall”.

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