Acorns Playgroup

About this day nursery

Acorns Preschool, located within Bilton Grange School in Harrogate, is an independent早教 institution that received an "outstanding" rating from Ofsted in February 2022. The preschool prides itself on its highly qualified and experienced staff, which includes two qualified teachers and several Level 3 qualified early years educators, all of whom have been with the team for a minimum of six years.

Every staff member is also certified in paediatric first aid, and each child is assigned a dedicated key person to foster a strong support system for both the child and their parents. Safeguarding children is a core principle, with comprehensive training for all staff and a designated Safeguarding Lead ensuring adherence to all safety regulations.

Acorns Preschool has developed a unique curriculum that encompasses a wide range of developmental areas, including literacy, numeracy, creative arts, drama, mindfulness, physical activities, and science, with a strong emphasis on outdoor learning. The approach is child-centred, focusing on individual interests to engage children in play-based learning experiences that meet their developmental needs.

The preschool also provides robust support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), with a dedicated SENDCo and staff fluent in Makaton. To ensure a smooth transition, Acorns offers home visits and flexible settling-in sessions, aiming to make both children and parents feel comfortable and confident in the new environment.

The preschool operates during term time only and values transparency with a clear, straightforward pricing structure.

What it's like

Children are happy, settled and form excellent attachments to staff, arriving eager to play and demonstrating high confidence and self-esteem. They engage deeply in a wide range of rich activities that are tailored to their interests, make impressive progress, and show exemplary behaviour while playing cooperatively.

Pricing & funding

This term-time only nursery offers daily rates for non-funded children and accepts two, three, and four-year-old funding. Funded hours are subject to a voluntary daily consumables contribution. Fees can be spread evenly across the year using monthly payment plans.