Business Details
31 Years
experience
Trusted Childcare & Early Education in Reading
Established over 30 years ago, Woodley Pre-School provides sessional care for children aged 2 to 5 in a purpose-built facility at Woodford Park, Reading. Our team of six NVQ Level 3-qualified staff, led by an Early Years Professional, prioritises child-led learning through play while adhering to the Early Years Foundation Stage framework. We implement an innovative 'in the moment planning' approach, documented through the Tapestry online system, which allows parents to actively participate in their child's educational journey.With paediatric first aid-certified personnel and volunteer parent helpers maintaining optimal adult-to-child ratios, we create a safe, stimulating environment where natural resources enhance learning experiences. As a registered charity (no. 1160756) and Ofsted-registered provider, we combine decades of expertise with continuous professional development to deliver exceptional early years education that prepares children for formal schooling.
Services
Early Years Education
Sessional Childcare
Parental Involvement Programs
Government-Funded Places
Online Learning Tracking
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- 30+ years delivering quality early years education in Reading
- Six NVQ Level 3-qualified staff with paediatric first aid training
- Innovative 'in the moment planning' learning approach
- Active parental involvement through Tapestry online system
- Ofsted-registered charity with proven child development expertise
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted
What people say
Kind, loving, fun team
Nurtured and loved
Caring staff
Excited to learn
Safe and stimulating
Services
Early Years Education
Our EYFS-compliant curriculum fosters holistic development through play-based learning. Qualified staff create individualised learning journeys documented via Tapestry, with regular progress assessments shared with parents. Natural resources and child-led activities stimulate creativity while meeting statutory educational requirements.
Sessional Childcare
We offer morning (9am-12pm) and afternoon (12pm-3pm) sessions Monday-Friday during term time. Three-hour sessions accommodate working parents' schedules while maintaining consistent care routines. Fees are reviewed annually with transparent pricing communicated to families.
Government-Funded Places
Eligible families access 15 or 30-hour government-funded childcare options. Our team guides parents through funding applications, including 2-year-old and extended entitlement schemes. Limited funded places are available based on eligibility criteria and current capacity.
Parental Involvement Programs
We actively encourage parental participation through home-learning documentation and regular communication. Parents receive Tapestry login credentials to view learning records and contribute observations. Family workshops and termly updates strengthen home-school partnerships for consistent child development.
Online Learning Tracking
Our Tapestry system provides real-time learning updates with photo documentation and developmental assessments. Parents access secure online portfolios to track progress and share home experiences. This digital platform enhances transparency and enables continuous learning between home and pre-school environments.
People
Suzanne Wooldridge
Manager
Early Years Professional with paediatric first aid certification. Leads staff training and curriculum development. Oversees daily operations and maintains Ofsted compliance standards.
Marie Cryer
Deputy Manager
NVQ Level 3-qualified deputy manager with paediatric first aid training. Supports staff development and ensures consistent implementation of educational frameworks.
Claire Cowen
Co-Deputy Manager
Experienced early years educator with paediatric first aid certification. Coordinates volunteer parent helpers and maintains child safety protocols.
Erif Newman
Chair
Governance lead responsible for strategic direction and compliance oversight. Ensures organisational adherence to charity and educational standards.
Zara Merritt
Community Liaison
Connects with local families and organisations to enhance community engagement. Facilitates outreach programs and parent support initiatives.
Questions
What are your eligibility requirements for government-funded places?
We accept children aged 2-5 with confirmed eligibility for 15 or 30-hour government funding. Contact us for current availability and application guidance.
What are your operating hours and term dates?
We operate 9am-3pm Monday-Friday during term time. Specific term dates are published annually on our website and admissions forms.
How do you support child development through play?
Our 'in the moment planning' approach uses natural resources and child-led activities documented through Tapestry to enhance learning and creativity.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
All staff hold minimum NVQ Level 3 qualifications with paediatric first aid certification. Our manager is an Early Years Professional.
How can parents get involved in their child's learning?
Parents access Tapestry online records, contribute home-learning observations, and participate in regular progress discussions with teaching staff.
What safety measures are in place?
We maintain strict Ofsted ratios with DBS-checked staff, paediatric first aid coverage, and secure premises with controlled access during sessions.
