We welcome applications from all denominations of children to attend our Pre-school.

Please note: admission to St. Vincent’s Pre-school does not automatically guarantee the offer of a place from St Vincent’s Primary School.

Application forms are available from the Pre-school and the Primary School or via parents documents tab above. Children are admitted from the age of two and they will be expected to attend for 2 sessions per week. Extra sessions will be allocated following consultation between the staff and parents when both parties feel it is appropriate. Places will be offered approximately a half term in advance of the starting date. If the place is accepted then an induction visit will be arranged. Your child will meet the staff and his/her new playmates, see the routine and become familiar with the Pre-school.

All parents are eligible for 15 hours universal hours the term after their child turns 3. The extended 15 hours entitlement needs to be applied for by the parent using www.childcarechoices.gov.uk. Once you have checked that you are eligible and have your eligibility code, it is essential that this is given to Pre-school.

From April 2024, the early education entitlement was expanded for working families of younger children (2 year olds) so they can access 15 hours per week, increasing to 30 hours per week by September 2025.

Sessions not funded will be charged as follows:

Morning/Afternoon Session 9.00 - 11.30 £17.00 under 3

      £16.00 over 3

Lunch       11.30 - 12.45             £7.00 all children

Consumable Charge £4.00 per session

You can also use Tax-Free Childcare or Universal Credit for Childcare whilst claiming your 15 or 30 hours of childcare support.

At St Vincent’s Pre-school we pride ourselves on a provision that far exceeds the expectations of the EYFS Framework. In recognising that every child is unique and learns in their own way we seek to enhance their daily experience by providing a wide range of activities and experiences that engage, excite and stimulate.

Sadly, the funding that we receive from the government does not allow us to do this without asking for additional funding. For this reason, in-line with other Settings in Knutsford we ask for a voluntary contribution of £4.00 per funded session. Without this we would have to scale back the additional activities.

Government Funding is to cover the Basic Early Years Foundation Stage provision which includes such thing as:

·        Small world figure, role play, puzzles, books and basic craft supplies

·        Sand and water play

·        Loose parts and construction toys

·        Staffing levels that meet the minimum Government ratios

By providing an enhanced provision with a bespoke curriculum, high quality childcare and education can be provided, however this can only be supported by additional service charge.  Below are just a few examples of the extracurricular activities that are provided and the enhancement provision we offer.

·        Any food and snacks

·        Nappies, wipes and sun cream

·        Tissues and nappy sacks

·        Emergency spare clothes

·        Additional high-quality resources such as our large outdoor sand pit and our gravel area

·        Stay and plays

·        Nuts and Bolts of Kids

·        Face to face parent’s evening

·        Trips to allotment, library, local shops, Sharston House etc

·        Social events such as Christmas Party, Summer party, Graduation

·        Festivals

·        Vegetable growing at the Setting and our allotment

·        All staff first aid trained (EYFS 1 staff member on the premises at all times)

·        Extensive early intervention strategies

However, we do understand that each family’s circumstances are different, and we are happy to discuss any concerns or questions you may have regarding these charges. If you do not wish to make the voluntary contribution, we kindly ask that you speak to Cath Davies.  You will need to provide a snack for your child for each session, as well as any personal hygiene items (such as wipes, tissues, or any other relevant products) that may be needed throughout the day. 

We are committed to working with all our families to ensure that every child can benefit from the high-quality care and education they deserve. If you have any further questions, or if there is anything we can do to assist you, please do not hesitate to contact us.