Pre-School
Give your child a confident, happy start to school life
A Pre-School where learning begins with confidence.
Our nurturing early years environment is for children aged 2½–4, set in the heart of Great Walstead School, and strives to give every child a gentle and confident start.
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Outstanding outdoor learning environment
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Smooth transition into Pre-Prep
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Part of the wider school community
Why Choose our Pre-school
Outstanding outdoor learning
Children learn, play, and explore every day in a rich natural environment that builds confidence, curiosity, and independence.
A seamless start to school
Our Pre-School is located at the heart of the school, helping children feel familiar and settled as they move naturally into Pre-Prep.
Experienced, caring staff
Highly trained teachers with low staff turnover provide stability, reassurance, and consistent care.
Access to full school facilities
From woodland learning to specialist spaces, Pre-School children enjoy the benefits of the wider school environment.
Flexible care for families
Wraparound care and session options designed to support busy family life.
What Great Walstead parents say
Learning begins with play
Our bright classrooms encourage curiosity through carefully chosen toys and play-based activities that support early development and discovery.
Outdoor learning is part of every day, with children exploring our Forest School, outdoor spaces and woodland to build confidence, independence and a love of learning.
Practical details that matter
Choosing a pre-school is about finding what works for your family. At Great Walstead Pre-School, we offer calm routines, clear communication, and practical support to make every day feel simple and reassuring.
- Flexible session options to suit your family’s routine
- Wraparound care available for consistent, full-day support
- Easy access and on-site parking for stress-free drop-off and pick-up
- Calm arrival and collection routines that help children settle quickly
- Small group sizes in a structured, supportive environment
- Consistent daily routines that build confidence and familiarity
- Clear communication with parents and familiar faces each day
A fun-filled day
We are a day school but appreciate that our busy parents require a comprehensive, wraparound care facility which also affords them flexibility.
Parents can select sessions to suit:
8.30am – 12 noon excluding lunch
8.30am – 1.30pm including lunch
8.30am – 3.30pm to stay for the full day
With the addition of our wraparound care from:
7.30am - 7.00pm during the term time
8.00am - 5.00pm in the school holidays
Visit us at open week
Join us for Open Week and discover our Pre-School - a nurturing early years environment where children feel happy, supported, and ready for their next step.
What to expect:
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Meet our Pre-School teachers
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Explore indoor and outdoor learning spaces
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See how children transition naturally into Pre-Prep
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Ask questions in a relaxed, welcoming environment
Toddler Club
Do you have a child aged 0-3 years and want to experience Great Walstead School? Come along to our Toddler Club to meet other parents and enjoy a cuppa while your little ones explore new toys and activities.
A smooth transition
Children moving from Pre-School to our newly renovated Reception space only have a small step to take, both physically and emotionally. There’s a buzz of excitement when the time comes to take it.
A setting that sets us apart
Outdoor learning facilities take centre stage at Great Walstead. From Forest School to charity fun runs to marshmallows over a campfire, we all make full use of this incredible resource.
