Harborough preschool set to make improvements following £150,000 funding
A preschool in Market Harborough is set to make improvements, thanks to funding of £150,000 from the Government.
Mini Oaks preschool at Farndon Fields Primary School, located on Argyle Park, is set to increase capacity from 26 to 32 places through the funding, which is part of a national programme to expand childcare provision across more than 300 schools.
The investment is set to help the school’s provision for three and four-year-olds, which is currently oversubscribed, and support refurbishment of the interior and exterior of the mobile building, alongside improvements to outdoor learning spaces and security.
Other upgrades include improved surfacing for play, zoned areas for learning and development, a new fence line and a dedicated secure entrance.
Improvements to the roof began the programme of work during the May half-term holidays, and this will be followed by a six-week programme over the summer holidays, with a view to completing the project in August.
The pre-school also hopes to extend opening hours by 30 minutes, to enable it to open 51 weeks of the year between 7.30am and 6pm.
Headteacher at Farndon Fields Primary School Simone Harrison said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this funding, which will make such a meaningful difference to our school community.
“Our preschool is incredibly popular, and this investment allows us to enhance what we already offer while supporting more families with extended hours and year-round provision.
“Preschool hours now matching our wider school wraparound care and holiday club provision will be a real benefit for working parents, especially those with children across different age groups.
“We’re also incredibly proud of our preschool team. The staff who lead this provision are truly fantastic and are a big part of why it is so well-loved.
“Their dedication and care create a nurturing environment where children thrive. Our preschool is fully part of the primary school community, giving children a strong sense of belonging from the very start.
“While we’re excited about the improvements ahead, plans are still being finalised, so we look forward to sharing more details as they develop.
“It’s going to be a busy summer, and we can’t wait to open the doors to our improved preschool in September.”