Business Details
Trusted Preschool for Ages 2-5 in Hemel Hempstead
Little Acorns has been a trusted provider of early childhood education and care in Hemel Hempstead for over four decades. Established in a purpose-built facility overlooking Northridge Park, we offer a welcoming environment designed to foster learning, creativity, and social development for children aged 2 to 5 years. Our team of highly qualified professionals holds credentials such as HNC in childhood education, NVQ Level 3 qualifications, and specialist certifications in safeguarding, paediatric first aid, and special educational needs coordination. Registered with Ofsted and funded by the Local Education Authority, we cater to 24 children per session with flexible options including morning, afternoon, and extended sessions.Our curriculum follows the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, enriched by tailored support for children with special educational needs, structured transition programs, and regular parental engagement through consultations and interactive events. Safety, inclusivity, and holistic development form the cornerstone of our approach, reflected in our accessible facilities, high staff-to-child ratios, and collaborative partnerships with healthcare and educational professionals.
Services
Early Years Education
Special Educational Needs Support
Flexible Session Options
Parental Consultations
Transition Programs
Inclusive Learning Environments
Outdoor Play Activities
Health and Safety Training
Bilingual Support
Community Partnerships
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in early childhood education.
- Our team holds specialist qualifications in safeguarding and special educational needs.
- We offer structured transition programs for school readiness.
- Flexible session options cater to diverse family needs.
- Registered with Ofsted and funded by the Local Education Authority.
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted
Services
Early Years Education
Structured learning programs following the Early Years Foundation Stage framework for children aged 2-5. Sessions incorporate play-based activities to develop cognitive, social, and motor skills. Includes daily observations and personalized planning to support individual progress.
Special Educational Needs Support
Tailored support for children with special educational needs, including individualized learning plans and collaboration with therapists. Staff trained in Makaton sign language and visual timetables to enhance communication. Regular parent-professional partnerships ensure holistic development.
Flexible Session Options
Varied session durations from 2 to 6 hours, including lunch club and extended hours. Options accommodate working families while maintaining continuity in care. Funded places available for eligible children aged 2-4 years.
Transition Programs
Preparation for school through structured visits and collaboration with local reception teachers. Includes 'stay and play' sessions and parent consultations to ensure smooth transitions. Focuses on developing independence and social skills.
Parental Consultations
Regular meetings and open afternoons to discuss child progress. Online Tapestry accounts provide real-time updates. Team Around the Family meetings available for complex needs, ensuring cohesive support strategies between home and preschool.
People
Rose Tenny
Pre-School Manager
Holder of an HNC in childhood education and BTEC National Diploma in childhood studies. Leads safeguarding and first aid initiatives, with enhanced CRB clearance and food hygiene certification.
Zoe Reeves
Pre-School Deputy
CACHE NVQ Level 3 qualified with expertise in first aid, behaviour management, and safeguarding. Coordinates SEN support and maintains CRB-enhanced clearance.
Wendy Dunning
Senior Pre-School Assistant
NNEB-qualified with First Aid at Work and paediatric first aid certifications. Supports daily operations and maintains enhanced CRB clearance.
Kath Clark
Pre-School Assistant
NVQ Level 3 in Children & Young People's Workforce with paediatric first aid training and enhanced CRB clearance. Focuses on child engagement and safety.
Jaki Dobson
Pre-School Assistant
CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Pre-School Practice with fire safety and safeguarding certifications. Ensures compliance with health and safety protocols.
Questions
How do I apply for a preschool place?
Complete our online form or contact us via email to join the waiting list. Priority is given to termly intakes in September, January, and Easter.
What are the session fees?
Fees range from £10.40 for 2-hour sessions to £33 for 6-hour sessions, with funded options available for eligible children aged 2-4.
Do you support children with special needs?
Yes. We have a dedicated SENCO team, visual timetables, sensory resources, and collaborate with therapists to support individual requirements.
What happens during school transitions?
Local school teachers visit preschool, and transition sessions ensure children adapt smoothly to their new educational environment.
How can parents stay informed about their child's progress?
Daily updates, online Tapestry accounts, bi-termly consultations, and informal discussions at session ends keep parents engaged.
What facilities do you offer?
A purpose-built building with accessible toilets, outdoor play areas, and equipment designed for children aged 2-5.
Reviews (1)
Jessica Hardwick
Aug 21, 2020
Report
This playgroup is outstanding, the staff are all absolutely amazing and genuinely care about all the toddlers.
