Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Ofsted-Rated Preschool in Alpington, Norwich
Alpington & Yelverton Preschool Cottontails has provided a nurturing and educational environment for children aged 2-5 since 1972. Our approach prioritises learning through play, fostering individual development across emotional, social, physical, and intellectual domains. We maintain strong partnerships with parents and local primary schools to ensure seamless transitions to formal education. As a registered charity, we deliver inclusive, affordable childcare while adhering to rigorous safeguarding standards. Our team of DBS-checked professionals offers flexible session options and access to both indoor and outdoor learning spaces.We actively engage in continuous improvement, evidenced by our Ofsted 'Good' rating and commitment to staff development. Our facilities include a secure outdoor play area and access to a local play park, supporting holistic growth through varied activities. We participate in government-funded childcare schemes and provide tailored support for children with additional needs. Our policies reflect current best practices in early years education and child protection. We welcome prospective families to visit and experience our welcoming village setting firsthand.
Services
Early years education
Outdoor learning
Speech support
School transition
Funded childcare
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- 24/7 access to secure outdoor learning environments
- Established 1972 with proven transition programmes to local schools
- DBS-checked staff specialising in early years development
- Government-funded childcare options available
- Ofsted-registered with 'Good' rating for educational standards
What people say
Lovely village setting
Caring staff
Improved speech
Smooth transition
Services
Early Years Education
Structured play-based education for 2-5 year olds following the Early Years Foundation Stage framework. Focuses on developing social, emotional, physical and cognitive skills through themed activities and outdoor exploration. Sessions include creative play, construction and sensory experiences.
Speech Development
Specialised speech and language programmes for children requiring additional support. Incorporates interactive games and phonetic exercises to improve articulation. Staff trained in early communication development deliver targeted interventions within regular play sessions.
School Transition
Preparation for formal education through structured routines and school partnership activities. Includes visits to local primary schools, shared events like sports days, and development of independence skills. Curriculum aligns with reception class expectations.
Outdoor Learning
Access to secure outdoor play areas with sand/water facilities, role-play zones and construction resources. Promotes physical development and environmental awareness through supervised outdoor activities aligned with curriculum objectives.
Funded Childcare
Eligible 3-4 year olds receive 15 hours free childcare weekly. Supports 30-hour extended entitlement claims through partnership arrangements. Funding applications processed in accordance with Norfolk County Council requirements.
People
Lizzy Houlder
Manager
Experienced early years professional managing daily operations. Oversees staff training and safeguarding compliance. Coordinates parent engagement and funding applications. Holds current DBS clearance and participates in regular professional development.
Questions
What age range do you accept?
We care for children aged 2 to 5 years old.
Are you Ofsted registered?
Yes, we hold an Ofsted 'Good' rating for educational standards.
Can I visit before enrolling?
Prospective parents may attend a session to experience our environment.
Do staff have safeguarding training?
All staff hold current DBS checks and regular safeguarding certifications.
How does funding work?
We process 15-hour entitlement claims and support 30-hour applications through partnership arrangements.
