Frequently Asked Questions

1

Where is St Peter's Pre-School Located?

St Peter’s Pre-School is located in a peaceful semi-rural setting behind St Peter’s Church in Southend Bradfield, West Berkshire. Our setting offers a safe, calm environment with excellent outdoor learning spaces for young children.

2

What age can children start at St Peter's Pre-School?

We welcome children from 2 years old. Our sessions are designed to support early development, confidence building, and social skills from a young age.

3

Does my child need to be toilet trained to attend St Peter's Pre-School?

No, your child does not need to be toilet trained to attend our pre-school in Southend Bradfield. We understand that children develop at different rates and are happy to support those still in nappies or beginning toilet training. Our staff work closely with parents to ensure a consistent and supportive approach. Please provide nappies, wipes, and spare clothing, all clearly labelled.

4

Do you offer funded childcare places?

Yes, we offer:
• 15 hours free childcare for all 3 and 4-year-olds
• Up to 30 hours funded childcare for eligible working parents
• Funded places for some eligible 2-year-olds
We follow UK government guidelines for West Berkshire early years funding.

5

What are your fees for non-funded hours?

Our current fees are:
• £6.50 per hour
• £4.50 for lunch club
• £1.00 optional snack
We aim to provide flexible and affordable childcare in West Berkshire.

6

What does a typical day look like at our pre-school?

Each session includes a mix of:
• Play-based learning
• Adult-led and child-initiated activities
• Indoor and outdoor exploration
Activities support all seven areas of the EYFS curriculum.

7

What curriculum do you follow?

We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework (updated 2025), helping children:
• Learn through play
• Develop key life skills
• Prepare for primary school transition

8

How do you support children with special educational needs (SEND)?

We offer inclusive childcare with:
• Fully accessible facilities
• An experienced SENCo (15+ years experience)
• 1:1 support where needed
• Collaboration with the West Berkshire Early Years Support Team
We work closely with parents to create personalised support plans.

9

What outdoor facilities do you offer?

We provide extensive outdoor learning spaces, including:
• Playground with ride-on toys and physical equipment
• Enclosed grass area with climbing frame, slide, and trampoline
• Playhouse and large sandpit
• Field for sports days, nature walks, and exploration
This supports active outdoor learning in West Berkshire.

10

How do you help children prepare for school?

We support school readiness by:
• Developing confidence and independence
• Building social and communication skills
• Liaising with local primary schools
• Sharing progress reports and arranging visits

11

What should my child bring to pre-school?

Children should bring:
• Named water bottle
• Spare clothes
• Wellington boots
• Nappies (if required)
In summer:
• Sun hat
• Sun cream (applied before arrival, with spare if needed)

12

Do you offer flexible childcare options?

Yes, we offer:
• Term-time sessions (38 weeks)
• Funded and paid places
• Early Drop-Off Club (from 8:45am)
• Lunch club Monday to Thursday

13

How will I know how my child is progressing?

You will receive:
• Termly progress updates
• Individual development targets
• Final report before school transition
• Ongoing communication with staff

14

What makes St. Peter’s Pre-School different?

We are a welcoming, community-led pre-school in Southend Bradfield, offering:

• A nurturing, child-focused environment in a semi-rural setting
• Experienced, mature and caring staff (all with over 17 years’ experience), who know each child and their family too
• Strong outdoor learning opportunities
• Inclusive support for all children

15

Is your pre-school Ofsted registered?

Yes. We received a ‘Good’ Ofsted rating in July 2025, recognising our engaging curriculum and supportive learning environment.

16

Do you support working parents?

Yes, we support families with:
• Funded childcare options
• Flexible sessions
• Early drop-off provision (8.45am)
• Lunch club

Our sessions run between 8.45am and 3pm.

17

How can I apply or arrange a visit?

To join St. Peter’s Pre-School in Southend Bradfield get in touch. We'd love to welcome you for a visit. Alternatively, you can complete our application form. Any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

18

How does your pre-school support sustainability and outdoor learning?

We are part of the Let’s Go Zero campaign, promoting:
• Recycling and eco-awareness
• Outdoor exploration (e.g. Wellie Walks)
• Nature-based learning
We are also developing a dedicated nature garden.

19

Are parents involved in the pre-school?

Yes, we are managed by a committee of parents and volunteers, ensuring a strong community focus and collaboration.