Harold Wood Pre School

About this early years setting

Harold Wood Pre School Limited operates from the Harold Wood Methodist Church in Romford, providing early years education within a warm and structured setting designed to ease children into learning through play. It offers a more personal experience compared to larger nurseries, with a routine that fosters security and readiness to learn.

The pre-school acts as a gentle transition for children before they move on to more formal education. Registered with the local authority and listed on the Havering Family Services Hub, it assures parents of its integration into the borough's early childhood education network, offering access to practical information on funding and support.

While located in a church, the environment is neutral and focuses on child development. The school prioritises a positive atmosphere and individualised attention, encouraging social skills, sharing, and independence.

Its educational approach aligns with the Early Years Foundation Stage, emphasising structured play, songs, story time, and creative activities to build foundations for literacy and numeracy rather than early formal academics. The church building offers generous indoor space, although outdoor play areas might be more modest than those at purpose-built nurseries.

The weekday schedule accommodates many families, but the lack of very early or late sessions might challenge parents with longer working hours. The pre-school fosters a strong community feel with low staff turnover, offering stability.

Fees are in line with local rates, and government-funded hours are accepted, though availability may be limited. Communication relies on direct interaction, noticeboards, and newsletters, offering a personal touch.

Our ethos

Harold Wood Pre School Limited's educational approach aligns with the Early Years Foundation Stage, emphasising structured play, songs, story time, and creative activities to build foundations for literacy and numeracy rather than early formal academics. They prioritise a positive atmosphere and individualised attention, encouraging social skills, sharing, and independence, acting as a gentle transition for children before more formal education.

What it's like

Children are happy and flourish at this welcoming setting. The caring staff have high expectations for children and sensitively nurture each child's confidence and well-being. Children become independent thinkers and make positive choices about their behaviour and play, which helps prepare them for moving on to school.