A New Chapter...
We move on after 13 years. a New Chapter for Fafunia
but a New Vision for Early Years in the Unlimited Child
On 12th March 2026, Fafunia Ltd, sadly, enters liquidation. However, the Fafunia brand and factory have been acquired by Blue Oak Manufacturing, who will continue to manufacture and sell Fafunia products. They will also carry forward nursery fitouts under the name Wonderforge.
While I may still be involved around the edges of the factory, my true commitment lies elsewhere — where it has always been strongest: in creating powerful, life-enhancing environments for young children.
For over 50 years, my passion has been Early Years. That passion burns brighter than ever.
My nursery, Child First Welbeck, stands as a living example of what is possible — a setting where children flourish and staff thrive, led by a manager with 1500% commitment and my complete confidence.
Now, it is time to go further.
I am seeking to acquire nursery settings that are ready to grow into a developing philosophy Owned Choice in a new vehicle called The Unlimited Child — a vision where:
· Children are self-managed and deeply motivated
· Challenge is embraced — by children and adults alike
· The outdoors is valued at least as much as the indoors
· Teams are well-resourced, capable and trusted
· Description replaces prescription
· Play is recognised as an action — not a timetable of activities
Alongside this, I am part of a small and committed team, reimagining traditional 'packaways.' Instead of halls that must be cleared and reset around adult systems, we are developing 'Hideaways' — environments that store consistency and compassion overnight, returning each morning to where the child was and where they want to be.
Internationally, I am working with Iceland to promote the beHulda brand of open-ended resources and to bring together an annual gathering of Play Aficionados from around the world in International Play Iceland— educators, thinkers, makers, and most importantly, children.
Some may say I am too old to begin expanding again. But if we do not create a stronger current in Early Years now, we cannot expect to have a better future.
If you are considering selling your setting — or if you feel ready to join something purposeful and challenging — I would love to hear from you.
Tom Shea
+44 7831 635802
tom@tomshea.co.uk
but a New Vision for Early Years in the Unlimited Child
On 12th March 2026, Fafunia Ltd, sadly, enters liquidation. However, the Fafunia brand and factory have been acquired by Blue Oak Manufacturing, who will continue to manufacture and sell Fafunia products. They will also carry forward nursery fitouts under the name Wonderforge.
While I may still be involved around the edges of the factory, my true commitment lies elsewhere — where it has always been strongest: in creating powerful, life-enhancing environments for young children.
For over 50 years, my passion has been Early Years. That passion burns brighter than ever.
My nursery, Child First Welbeck, stands as a living example of what is possible — a setting where children flourish and staff thrive, led by a manager with 1500% commitment and my complete confidence.
Now, it is time to go further.
I am seeking to acquire nursery settings that are ready to grow into a developing philosophy Owned Choice in a new vehicle called The Unlimited Child — a vision where:
· Children are self-managed and deeply motivated
· Challenge is embraced — by children and adults alike
· The outdoors is valued at least as much as the indoors
· Teams are well-resourced, capable and trusted
· Description replaces prescription
· Play is recognised as an action — not a timetable of activities
Alongside this, I am part of a small and committed team, reimagining traditional 'packaways.' Instead of halls that must be cleared and reset around adult systems, we are developing 'Hideaways' — environments that store consistency and compassion overnight, returning each morning to where the child was and where they want to be.
Internationally, I am working with Iceland to promote the beHulda brand of open-ended resources and to bring together an annual gathering of Play Aficionados from around the world in International Play Iceland— educators, thinkers, makers, and most importantly, children.
Some may say I am too old to begin expanding again. But if we do not create a stronger current in Early Years now, we cannot expect to have a better future.
If you are considering selling your setting — or if you feel ready to join something purposeful and challenging — I would love to hear from you.
Tom Shea
+44 7831 635802
tom@tomshea.co.uk
