A new learning and activity centre in Burnt Oak opened its doors to the community this afternoon.

The Children of the World centre in, Burnt Oak Broadway, showed off what it had to offer to both parents and their little ones.

Shirley de Vries, the centre’s founder, said it will have classes for all ages, including reading, language lessons, flower designing and art classes for people with special needs.

She said: “We wanted to help the community and that’s the whole point of the project.

“There are lots of households that are really feeling the pinch and I really wanted to help parents of different backgrounds out.

“We have tried to create a homely environment where people can come and learn together and share their differences.”

Mrs de Vries, who is a former childminder, said the centre works hard to give young children confidence and prepare them for school.

Some of the activities the centre offers include Arabic and Chinese classes for people of all ages and an afterschool club for children.

The centre is open from 9am to 6.30pm from Monday to Friday.