Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Childcare and Early Education in Bradninch
Established in 1972, Duchy Preschool & Playgroup has been a cornerstone of early childhood education in Bradninch for over five decades. As a non-profit organisation, we pride ourselves on fostering a safe, inclusive, and play-based learning environment for children aged two to five. Our journey from a small community playgroup to an accredited preschool reflects our commitment to quality care and education. We relocated to modern, accessible facilities in 2001, ensuring compliance with equal opportunities and inclusion policies, including wheelchair access and a dedicated disabled toilet. Accredited by the Pre-School Learning Alliance under the rigorous 'Investors in Children' quality mark since 2006, we exceed Ofsted standards through continuous professional development and tailored learning approaches.Our team, composed of experienced parents, prioritises collaboration with families to create individualised learning experiences. We offer flexible wraparound care, including breakfast and after-school clubs for local primary schoolchildren, and a summer holiday programme. Our governance by volunteer trustees ensures transparency and community-driven decision-making, while fundraising initiatives sustain our vital services. By integrating parental insights and maintaining open communication through contact books and newsletters, we empower families to actively participate in their child's development. This holistic approach has solidified our reputation as a trusted partner in early years education across Devon.
Services
Preschool
After-school clubs
Summer holiday club
SEND support
Parent involvement programmes
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- We have operated in Bradninch since 1972, providing continuous local childcare expertise.
- Our facilities include wheelchair access and inclusive design meeting modern accessibility standards.
- We maintain accreditation exceeding Ofsted requirements through the Pre-School Learning Alliance.
- All staff combine professional qualifications with personal parenting experience.
- Our parent partnership approach actively involves families in individualised learning plans.
Associations and certifications
- Pre-School Learning Alliance
- Ofsted
Services
Preschool
Our term-time preschool offers structured play-based learning for children aged 2-5. Qualified staff create individualised development plans aligned with national early years standards. The curriculum focuses on social skills, creativity, and foundational literacy/numeracy through hands-on activities in accessible facilities.
After-school clubs
We provide supervised care for primary schoolchildren before and after school hours. Services include breakfast provision, escorted walks to school, and afternoon tea. Sessions accommodate working parents with flexible timing options from 07:45 to 18:00 daily.
Summer holiday club
Our three-week summer programme offers structured activities for preschool and school-age children. The curriculum maintains educational continuity through themed play while providing childcare support during peak holiday periods.
SEND support
We implement individualised support plans for children with special educational needs, aligned with Devon County Council's SEND framework. Staff collaborate with external specialists and provide tailored learning strategies to ensure inclusive participation.
Parent involvement programmes
We facilitate regular parent-teacher collaboration through contact books, newsletters, and interactive sessions. Parents contribute to curriculum planning and participate in classroom activities to strengthen home-learning connections.
Questions
What age range do you accept?
We accept children aged 2-5 years for preschool sessions and school-age children for wraparound care.
Are you Ofsted registered?
Yes, we've been Ofsted-registered since 2011, exceeding their standards through additional Pre-School Learning Alliance accreditation.
Do you support children with special needs?
Yes, we provide tailored support aligned with Devon's SEND Local Offer and work with external specialists as required.
How can parents get involved?
Parents contribute through our 'Parent Help Rota', classroom volunteering, and regular communication via contact books and newsletters.
What facilities do you offer?
Our accessible facilities include wheelchair access, a disabled toilet, and purpose-built learning spaces with outdoor play areas.
How do I register my child?
Complete our registration form available on our website, then contact us to arrange a settling-in visit.
