Welcome to Collingham Preschool

At Collingham Preschool we take pride in providing a warm, nurturing environment for our children, giving them the confidence to take risks, develop their curiosity and find joy in learning and in the world around them. We deliver our curriculum through a mixture of adult-led and child-led activities with the children’s interests being the driving force throughout. Our aim is to ensure the best possible outcomes for all of our children so that they leave us not only school-ready but also life-ready.

We use an online learning journal that parents and carers can access giving them a clear insight into their child’s preschool life. A key person system is in place which means that each member of staff has a particular responsibility for a few children. This helps children with the settling in process and also helps us to record children’s progress. The key person should be the first point of contact for any queries. However, we are a very close team and strive to ensure that we all know all of the children well and have good relationships with all our families who are welcome to visit at any time to discuss their child’s progress or talk over any concerns.

Collingham Preschool is a member of the Preschool Learning Alliance and is fully covered by their insurance scheme. Our preschool is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We comply with all the regulations of the Children’s Act and undergo regular Ofsted inspections. We have a number of written policies including Admissions, Health and Safety, Special Needs, Behaviour, Equal Opportunities and Safeguarding. Parents are welcome to see these policies at any time.

We are registered by OFSTED (registration number EY551619) to take children from 2 years old. We do not discriminate in terms of sex, race, religion or ability. All children are eligible for up to 15 hours of universal government funding from the term after their 3^rd birthday. We are also registered for 2 year old funding and the additional 15 hours funding for eligible families although we are only able to offer a total of 27 hours per week. Fees for non-funded children and any additional hours are invoiced half termly at the rate of £6.50 per hour from January 2025.

Play-based Learning

Our play-based learning approach encourages children to explore and discover through hands-on activities, promoting creativity and critical thinking.

We are influenced by the Reggio Emilia philosophy which is based on the following set of principles:

Children must have some control over the direction of their learning;
Children must be able to learn through experiences of touching, moving, listening, and observing;
Children have a relationship with other children and with material items in the world that they must be allowed to explore;
Children must have endless ways and opportunities to express themselves

Social Development

We focus on fostering social skills and emotional intelligence through group activities, helping children build positive relationships with their peers.

Children have open access to our fabulous outdoor area where we have various different resources including sand, water and opportunities to climb, balance and challenge themselves physically.

Embracing our Community

We regularly take the children for walks, exploring our beautiful village and making the most of all that it offers including trips to the river, The Ark (a local small holding). Outings and special events are arranged throughout the year which parents and carers are invited to attend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age range for enrolment?

We welcome children aged 2 to 4 years old.

What are the operating hours of the preschool?

We are open from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, Monday to Thursday and 9:00 to 12:00 on Fridays during term time. Children can attend for sessions from 9:00 am to either 12:00, 1:00 pm or 3:00 pm.

Do you offer any extracurricular activities?

Yes, we offer Music Sessions with Piano Jane and Tiny Dancers classes once per week. We also go on trips to The Ark to visit the animals and help out on the farm once per month.

About us

Collingham Preschool is a trusted early childhood education provider located in the heart of Collingham, Wetherby. With a focus on holistic development, we offer a safe and supportive environment where children can explore, learn, and thrive. Our experienced educators are dedicated to nurturing each child's unique talents and abilities, preparing them for a successful transition to primary school and beyond.