Business Details
41 Years
experience
Outstanding Childcare & Early Education in Preston
Broughton Pre-School has been nurturing young minds for over four decades, offering outstanding quality care and education for children aged 2 to statutory school age. Our semi-rural setting provides a large fenced outdoor area and access to playing fields, enabling nature walks, sports activities, and immersive outdoor learning experiences. As a Lead Practitioner setting for Lancashire, we prioritise safe, secure environments where children develop through play, regardless of background or ability. Our warm, welcoming indoor space showcases children's creations, while our dedicated team fosters strong parent partnerships to ensure every child's needs are met.Recognised as a hidden gem on the A6, our hands-on approach combines structured learning with forest school principles, preparing children for school through confidence-building and social development. We achieved the Lancashire Quality Award in 2014 and received 'Outstanding' in all areas during our 2020 Ofsted inspection, reflecting our commitment to excellence in early years education.
Services
Childcare
Outdoor Learning
Early Education
Parent Partnerships
After-School Care
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- Ofsted rated 'Outstanding' in all areas during 2020 inspection
- Lead Practitioner setting for Lancashire with specialist outdoor learning focus
- Forest school approach develops confidence through nature exploration
- Proven track record of improving boys' early years achievement (2014 award)
- Parent partnerships enhance individualised care and communication
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted
- Lancashire Quality Award
- Learning Excellence Good Practice Award
What people say
Outstanding in all areas
Hidden gem
Nurturing environment
Flourish socially and emotionally
Excellent progress
Services
Outdoor Learning
Our forest school approach utilises 5 acres of playing fields for den-building, seasonal exploration, and risk-assessment activities. Children develop physical skills and environmental awareness through structured outdoor play. Waterproof suits and wellingtons are provided for all-weather learning experiences.
Early Education
Following the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, we deliver seven learning areas through play-based activities. Our staff maintain learning journals documenting each child's progress in communication, physical development, and social skills. Regular parent consultations ensure continuity between home and nursery education.
Childcare
Operating 7:45am-5:30pm daily, we provide flexible care for children aged 2 to school age. Breakfast club runs until 9am with self-registration activities. Packed lunches are supported by healthy snack provisions including fresh fruit and milk. After-school care completes our full-day solution for working parents.
Parent Partnerships
We maintain daily communication through ClassDojo app updates and learning journals. Parents contribute to assessment processes and participate in themed events like Easter egg hunts and sports days. Volunteer opportunities exist through our committee-led governance structure and fundraising activities.
Special Educational Needs
Our 'Local Offer' ensures all children receive tailored support regardless of abilities. Staff hold paediatric first aid qualifications and safeguarding certifications. Individualised key person systems track progress while maintaining inclusive group activities that promote peer interaction and empathy development.
People
Hayley Forbes
Lead Early Years Teacher
PGCE-qualified educator with maternity cover responsibilities, specialising in safeguarding and paediatric first aid. Leads staff training and curriculum development while maintaining high Ofsted-rated standards.
Abi Hargraves
Lead Early Years Teacher
Qualified teacher with forest school expertise, implementing outdoor learning initiatives. Holds Early Childhood Studies degree and leads staff development in experiential education techniques.
Laura Clark
Deputy Lead Educator
NVQ Level 3-qualified educator managing daily operations. Specialises in safeguarding procedures and supports staff training while maintaining close parent communication.
Chloe Unsworth
Early Years Educator
Level 3-qualified practitioner with paediatric first aid certification. Focuses on child engagement and developmental tracking while supporting key person responsibilities.
Kelly Lucas
Early Years Educator
Experienced Level 3-qualified educator specialising in play-based learning. Maintains strong child relationships and contributes to learning journal documentation processes.
Questions
What age range do you accept?
We care for children aged 2 years old to statutory school age, with flexible admission arrangements supporting individual readiness.
How do you support outdoor learning?
Our 5-acre site includes playing fields and forest school areas. Children engage in den-building, seasonal exploration, and nature-based activities daily in all weathers.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
All staff hold minimum Level 3 childcare qualifications. We maintain paediatric first aid certifications and designated safeguarding leads across our team.
How do you communicate with parents?
We use ClassDojo app for daily updates, maintain learning journals, and hold regular parent-teacher consultations. Our open-door policy encourages ongoing communication.
What is your Ofsted rating?
We received 'Outstanding' in all areas during our February 2020 Ofsted inspection, our third consecutive outstanding rating.
How do you prepare children for school?
Through structured EYFS curriculum delivery, confidence-building activities, and transition programmes that focus on independence, communication, and academic readiness skills.
