Pre-school

Opening times

8.50am – 3.00pm Monday to Friday, term time.

  • 50 am – 12.00 pm – Morning session
  • 00 pm – 1.00 pm – Lunch
  • pm – 3.00 pm – Afternoon session

The children can have a hot school meal for £2.50 or bring a packed lunch.

Members of staff are always with the children to help them with their meals and encourage good table manners.

Partnership with parents

At Harston and Newton Pre-School, we believe that a strong partnership between parents and staff is key to supporting every child’s learning and development. By sharing information about your child’s strengths, interests, and needs—both before they start and throughout their time with us—we can provide the very best support.

Settling In

We offer a settling-in period designed to help both you and your child feel confident and comfortable with Pre-School routines.

Ongoing Observation and Progress

Children are observed continually during their time with us to ensure their learning journey is well supported. Parents can view their child’s progress at any time through their personal online learning journal, Tapestry.

At the end of each term, we collate these observations and provide a summary that contributes towards their final report.

Parent Consultations

To strengthen communication, we also aim to hold a parent consultation afternoon at the beginning of each year, giving you the opportunity to discuss your child’s progress and experiences in more detail.

Nursery Education Funding (NEF)

We are registered to receive the Nursery Education Grant (NEF). From the term following their third birthday, your child will be entitled to 15 hours of funded childcare per week. We offer flexible session times so families can choose how best to use these hours.

In addition, some children may be eligible for free two‑year‑old places. If you think your child may qualify, please search online for “free two‑year‑old funding” for further information.

Fees and Costings

Some parents may wish to extend their child’s time at Pre‑School beyond the 15 funded hours or take up a place before their child becomes eligible for NEF funding.

Our charges are:

  • 2‑year‑olds: £8.15 per hour
  • 3‑ and 4‑year‑olds: £6.00 per hour
  • Hot school meal: £2.50 per day

Our fees are reviewed annually in March, with any changes implemented from the following September.

Important Notice

Please note: a late collection fee of £1.00 per minute will be charged if a child is collected after their agreed session time.