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Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Early Years Education in Exeter
Clyst Valley Pre-School has been nurturing young minds since 1975, providing a secure and stimulating environment for children aged 2 years 8 months to school starting age. Our team of qualified professionals, including Early Years Teachers and NVQ3 Educators, delivers tailored support for children with special educational needs while maintaining high standards of safety and inclusivity. The purpose-built eco-friendly facility features dedicated learning zones and extensive outdoor spaces, complemented by regular community events that celebrate children's achievements.

We collaborate with local schools and specialists to ensure seamless educational transitions and offer flexible funding options to support families. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our longstanding staff, robust safeguarding practices, and positive partnerships with parents and external agencies.
Services
Early Years Education Special Educational Needs Support Outdoor Play Areas Funding Options Parent Partnerships Transition Programs Community Events
Details
  • Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
  • We have qualified Early Years Teachers and NVQ3 Educators with specialist training
  • Our eco-friendly building provides dedicated learning and play environments
  • We offer inclusive support for children with special educational needs and disabilities
  • Flexible funding options available including Universal 30 Hour Funding
  • Established partnerships with local primary schools and community organisations
Associations and certifications
  • Early Years Alliance
  • Registered Charity
What people say
Grew in confidence Happy to try new things Special and friendly place Smooth transition to school Inclusive environment
Services
Early Years Education
Structured educational programs for children aged 2 years 8 months to school starting age. Qualified staff deliver curriculum activities through play-based learning in dedicated zones including literacy/numeracy areas with computer access. Sessions run Monday to Friday during term time with flexible attendance options.
Special Educational Needs Support
Inclusive support for children with speech and language delays, autism, cerebral palsy and other conditions. Staff collaborate with speech therapists, Portage workers and advisory teachers to create individualised development plans. All educators hold specialist qualifications in special needs education.
Outdoor Play Areas
Secure outdoor spaces featuring covered deck areas, natural grass, artificial turf and tarmac surfaces. Children engage in physical activities while developing social skills through shared play experiences in a fully enclosed environment with high safety fencing.
People
Alison Leaman
Preschool Manager
Early Years Teacher with SENCO and Safeguarding qualifications. Holds NVQ3 and Foundation Degree in Early Years, plus Paediatric First Aid and Food Hygiene certifications. Oversees daily operations and child protection policies.
Katie Wyman
Assistant Preschool Manager
Early Years Teacher and Curriculum Lead with BSc in Education & Psychology. Specialises in child development and holds Paediatric First Aid and Safeguarding Level 2 qualifications. Supports staff training and educational programming.
Sophie North
Deputy Preschool Manager
NVQ3 Early Years Educator currently studying Level 5 Lead Practitioner. Manages safeguarding and health & safety protocols. Provides leadership in staff development and policy implementation.
Questions
What age range do you accept?
We accept children from 2 years 8 months to school starting age, registered for 24 children per session with qualified staff supporting all developmental stages.
What session times are available?
Sessions run Monday-Friday during term time: Early Bird 8:45-9:15, Morning 9:15-12:15, Afternoon 12:15-3:15 with flexible full-day options available.
Do you support children with special needs?
Yes, our qualified team works with speech therapists and advisory teachers to provide tailored support for children with speech delays, autism, and other conditions.
What funding options exist?
We accept Universal 30 Hour Funding from age 3, Employer Childcare Vouchers, and Tax Free Childcare. Fees are payable half-termly in advance with invoices sent at term start.
How do you prepare children for school?
We maintain close links with Clyst St Mary Primary School, offering shared sessions and transition programs to ensure children develop necessary skills for formal education environments.
Reviews (7)
Jo Harrison
Dec 01, 2017 Report
My son currently enjoys Clyst Valley Pre-School and their lovely modern classroom. The staff are fantastic; providing excellent pastoral care, daily feedback, as well as sharing educational learning goals regularly. He has really blossomed in both confidence and knowledge since joining.
Gary Tennet
Nov 24, 2017 Report
Such an amazing pre-school. Helped and developed our eldest son ready for the big jump to primary school. Couldn't fault the setting and facilities and the staff are so dedicated at what they do. Our youngest son starts in January and I have no doubt he will love it. Highly recommended.
Elizabeth Statham
Sep 27, 2017 Report
Fantastic preschool. My boys loved it there. Really helped prepare them for school. Amazing staff, would definitely recommend.
Gemma Fairfield
Sep 20, 2017 Report
My daughters both attended Clyst Valley Pre-school and loved it. I had no problem leaving them each day. They loved the staff and also the structure which led them to a smooth transits ion to big school.
Ali West
Jul 03, 2017 Report
Excellent village preschool in Clyst St Mary. Staff are well qualified and very caring towards the children. My children loved going and had fun learning and grew in confidence and independence during their time there. Ofsted Outstanding and highly recommended.
Amy Revill
Jun 17, 2017 Report
My daughter had a fabulous time at this preschool. I was always really impressed with the staff. She has now started primary school as a confident little girl thanks to her excellent start at Clyst Valley preschool.
Kerita Patterson
Jun 03, 2017 Report
Highly recommended pre school. Lovely purpose built building with enclosed garden. The staff are what makes this place so special. They are warm, caring, extremely knowledgable and fun.