We are a small, friendly, village pre-school. Initially children from Castlethorpe attended Hanslope playgroup. In September 1972, with the encouragement of the leader of the Hanslope Group, Rosemary Otter (the Vicar’s wife), Margaret Wilson, Gill Wilson (Sibthorne) and 15 children moved into the Village Hall. The Playgroup opened on two mornings each week.
Over the years thanks to many village residents, the Playgroup, later Pre-School, developed to be a very successful village provision. Numbers vary according to the birth rate. At present the Pre-School is registered for a maximum of 26 children at any one time.
The Pre-School is administered by a committee of volunteers who are responsible for the management of the provision. In recent years as a result of government initiatives, the Management’s role has grown considerably. The Pre-School manager has responsibility for day to day running.
We meet at Castlethorpe Village Hall Monday to Friday 9.15am – 12.15pm during term time. All children between 2 and 5 years of age are welcome and funding is available for all children over the age of 3.
The children have an opportunity to participate in a variety of educational, social and physical activities.
All aspects of the OFSTED requirements are covered to ensure a rounded curriculum. We are fortunate to have an excellent outdoor garden and play area made possible by the joint efforts of a parish councillor, parents and villagers.
We also run a Summer Club for between 4 and six days depending on demand catering for children between the ages of 3 and 10 years.
All staff are well qualified and have considerable experience. The adult to child ratio is well above statutory requirements. Parents are encouraged to become involved and visitors are welcome.
The Pre-school is OFSTED regulated and we were inspected by OFSTED during January 2008 and everyone was delighted with the glowing report. The full report can be found on the OFSTED web site
Contact Sarah Proctor contact telephone number 01908 510086. (Chair) or Cathy Walters (Manager during pre-school hours only) on 07749 999361.
