Creativity is at the heart of our approach. Through exploration, experimentation and investigation, children are encouraged to express themselves, follow their ideas and discover new possibilities. Messy play is an everyday part of our provision, offering rich opportunities for children to explore materials, develop their senses and express their creativity freely.

Our daily rhythm provides a secure and supportive framework, balanced with the freedom for children to make choices and direct their own learning. Our free-flow approach allows children to choose how, where and with whom they play, following their interests and ideas. Whether exploring music, storytelling, yoga, cooking or circle games, children are encouraged to contribute, take the lead and influence their experiences.

Throughout periods of free play, educators observe, listen and respond sensitively to each child’s interests, strengths and individual learning goals. By joining in when appropriate, asking thoughtful questions and introducing new ideas or resources, they extend children’s thinking and deepen their learning without interrupting the natural flow of play.

Whiteley Preschool is a term-time-only setting, open Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 3:00pm. Our Community Centre setting also offers a breakfast club from 8:15am.

Our sessions are charged at £6 per hour. We accept government-funded childcare hours for eligible children, helping families access high-quality early education and childcare. Depending on your child’s age and eligibility, you may be entitled to funded hours through the government’s early years funding schemes.

Funded hours cover the eligible hours of childcare, while any additional hours attended are charged at our standard hourly rate. We are happy to discuss your child’s funding entitlement, explain how it can be used at Whiteley Preschool and help you understand the options available to your family.

For further information about childcare funding and eligibility, please speak to a member of our team.