Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Early Years Education in Bury St Edmunds
Established in 1971, we have dedicated ourselves to providing high-quality early years education for children aged two to five in Bury St Edmunds and surrounding areas. Our structured sessions focus on learning through play, fostering intellectual, emotional, and physical development in a safe, inclusive environment. We operate five morning and afternoon sessions weekly, complemented by lunch club facilities, and maintain close partnerships with local educational institutions.Our team of qualified professionals prioritises safeguarding and individualised support, including for children with special educational needs. We adhere to the Early Years Foundation Stage framework while maintaining membership with the Pre-School Learning Alliance to ensure educational excellence. As a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, we reinvest resources to continually enhance our facilities and services for the community.
Services
Early Years Education
30 Hour Funding
Lunch Club Care
Special Educational Needs Support
Flexible Session Options
Details
- Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years' experience in early years education
- Our staff hold relevant childcare qualifications and first aid training
- We offer flexible 30-hour funding options for eligible families
- We maintain a 1:8 staff-to-child ratio for personalised attention
- We provide inclusive support for children with special educational needs
Associations and certifications
- Pre-School Learning Alliance
Services
Early Years Education
Structured educational programmes for children aged 2-5 using play-based learning methodologies. Sessions develop social skills, creativity and foundational academic abilities through carefully planned activities. Qualified staff implement individualised learning plans while maintaining adherence to EYFS requirements.
30 Hour Funding
Free childcare provision for eligible three and four-year-olds through government grants. Includes full funding coverage with no additional charges, operating on first-come-first-served basis for qualified applicants. Available during standard morning and afternoon sessions.
Special Educational Needs Support
Tailored support for children with special educational needs and disabilities. Features individualised learning strategies, adapted resources and dedicated SENCO oversight. Staff receive regular training updates to maintain inclusive educational practices across all activities.
People
Sharon
Pre-School Leader
With 16 years' experience, Sharon holds Early Years qualifications and serves as Room Leader and SENCO. She specialises in preparing children for primary education through play-based learning and has particular expertise in supporting children with special educational needs.
Ellie
Pre-School Deputy
Level three qualified childcare professional with three years' nursery experience prior to joining Southgate. Focuses on child development through interactive activities and leads circle time sessions to enhance communication skills.
Lucy
Room Leader
Ten-year veteran of Southgate Pre-School specialising in creative development through craft activities. Combines educational objectives with enjoyable experiences to foster children's artistic expression and fine motor skills.
Questions
What age range do you accept?
We accept children from two years old up to pre-school age, with special provisions for eligible two-year-olds through the Golden Ticket scheme.
How do I apply for funding?
Contact Suffolk County Council for eligibility assessment, then complete our pre-school registration form to secure your funded sessions.
What happens during a typical session?
Sessions combine structured learning activities with free play, including arts and crafts, physical development exercises, and social interaction opportunities following EYFS guidelines.
Are meals provided?
We provide mid-session milk/water and healthy snacks. Children bring their own packed lunch for lunch club sessions.
