Parent information

Starting Preschool

We understand that starting preschool is an exciting milestone for both children and their families. At St Augustine of Canterbury Preschool, we aim to make this transition as smooth, positive, and reassuring as possible.

Settling In

Every child is unique, and we take a gentle, flexible approach to settling in. Before your child starts, we offer opportunities to visit the setting and attend settling in sessions, meeting our staff, and become familiar with the environment. During the first few sessions, we work closely with you to ensure your child feels safe, secure, and comfortable.

What to Expect

Our preschool follows a free-flow play approach, allowing children to choose between indoor and outdoor activities throughout the session. This helps them build confidence, independence, and a love of learning at their own pace.

Children will have access to our outdoor classroom every day, so please dress them appropriately for the weather, including coats, hats, and suitable footwear.

What to Bring

• A named bag
• Spare clothes (for accidents or messy play)
• Weather-appropriate clothing (as we play outdoors daily)
• A named water bottle
• A healthy packed lunch (if your child attends a full day session)

Key Person System

Each child is supported by a dedicated key person who builds a close relationship with them and acts as your main point of contact. This helps your child feel secure and ensures their individual needs are met.

Working in Partnership

We value strong relationships with parents and carers. We encourage open communication and are always happy to talk about your child’s progress, interests, and wellbeing.

Supporting SEND

At St Augustine of Canterbury Preschool, we are committed to providing an inclusive environment where every child is valued and supported to reach their full potential.

We work closely with families to ensure that each child receives the care and support they need. Our approach is centred on understanding every child as an individual, celebrating their strengths, and supporting their development through tailored strategies and experiences.

Our SENDCo

We have a dedicated Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENDCo) who leads our SEND provision. The SENDCo works closely with staff, parents, and external professionals to identify needs early and put appropriate support in place.

Our SENDCo will:

• Work with you to understand your child’s needs
• Support staff in planning and adapting activities
• Monitor your child’s progress and wellbeing
• Liaise with external agencies where needed
• Help create individual support plans

Working Together

We believe that strong partnerships with parents and carers are essential. We will keep you informed, listen to your insights, and involve you in all decisions about your child’s support.

Inclusive Practice

Through our free-flow play and outdoor learning environment, we offer flexible opportunities for all children to learn in ways that suit them best. Activities are adapted to ensure every child can take part, build confidence, and feel a sense of belonging.

Dress code

Preschool clothes should be comfortable, washable, weather‑appropriate, and easy for your child to manage independently.

Comfort and practicality

• Clothes should allow free movement (running, climbing, sitting on the floor).
• Soft, breathable fabrics are preferred.
• Avoid overly tight, restrictive, or delicate outfits.

• Elastic waistbands instead of buttons/zippers (helps with independent toileting).
• Simple shoes (Velcro or slip-on rather than laces).

 Weather-appropriate clothing

• Coat, hat, gloves in cold weather.
• Sunhat and light clothing in warm weather.

Spare clothes

• A full change of clothes (including underwear and socks) in case of spills or accidents.

Labelling

• All items (coats, bags, shoes, water bottles) should be clearly labelled with the child’s name.

What to Avoid

• Clothes with complicated buttons, belts, or dungarees.
• Jewellery (safety hazard).
• Costumes unless it’s a special day.
• Flip-flops or open sandals.

Preschool Session times.

Our preschool operates for 38 weeks per year during school term time, in line with the academic calendar. We are closed during school holidays and bank holidays.

Morning Session

9:00am – 12:00pm

Afternoon Session

12:00pm – 3:00pm

Full Day Session

9:00am – 3:00pm

We offer an additional early starts at 8.30am and late finish at 3.30pm for a separate charge.

Government Funded Hours

St Augustine of Canterbury preschool accepts government funded early education hours for eligible children.

Funded Entitlement

We accept:

• 15 hours universal funding for all 3 and 4-year-olds
• 30 hours extended funding for eligible working families
• Eligible 2-year-old funding (where applicable)

How Funding Works

• Funded hours can be used during term time (38 weeks per year) between the preschool hours of 9.00 – 15.00.
• Sessions can be taken as morning, afternoon, or full-day attendance (subject to availability)
• Any hours attended beyond your funded entitlement will be charged at our standard hourly/session rate.