Final preparations are being put in place for the new YMCA Sovereign Pre-School which will open its doors on Monday 11 April.
Based at the YMCA Sovereign Centre in Slipshatch Road, Reigate, it will be a place where children aged 2 to 5 years can play and learn.
“It’s a really exciting time,” explains Pre-School Manager, Katie Dudley, “and we can’t wait to welcome our families. The setting is perfect for busy young minds and energetic bodies as we have a large bright activity room, a soft play and sensory room plus a large secure outdoor area where the children can enjoy water play, gardening and physical development through slides, swings and ride on toys.”
The Pre-School will be open from Monday to Thursdays between 8.45am and 2.45pm and Fridays from 8.45am to 11.45am, term time only.
It will offer high quality and affordable childcare following the Early Years foundation stage and covering all seven areas of learning –
- personal, social and emotional development
- communication and language
- physical
- literacy
- mathematics
- understanding the world
- expressive arts and design
“Play is essential for a child’s development,” says Katie, who has a degree in Early Childhood education. “They build their confidence as they learn and explore, think about problems and relate to others. Children learn by leading their own play and by taking part in play which is guided by adults.”
“We will respond to each child’s emerging needs and interests, supporting their individual development. As children get closer to starting primary school, we will provide them with more structured activities and opportunities to ensure they are ready for school.”
Staff ratios in the new Pre-School will be 1:4 for children 2-3 and 1:8 for 3-5 year olds. Over 50% of the staff will hold a relevant qualification in childcare to ensure that high standards are met and maintained. All staff will undergo a full induction including training in Safeguarding and Child Protection, Early Years Foundation Stage Practices, inclusion and diversity.
The Pre-School sits within YMCA East Surrey’s Outstanding rated Ofsted registered childcare department with over 20 years’ experience.
All children aged 3 and over are entitled to 15 hours’ free childcare starting from the term after their third birthday. The Pre-School will also welcome those who are entitled to 2 year FEET funding.
For further information, please visit www.surreycc.gov.uk/feet or contact Katie Dudley by email at Katie.dudley@ymcaeastsurrey.org.uk
