Business Details
Runwell Village Pre-School - Quality Childcare in Wickford
Runwell Village Pre-School is a well-established, Ofsted-registered childcare provider operating from a spacious, purpose-built facility in Wickford, Essex. As a member of the Pre-School Learning Alliance and a registered charity, we prioritise child-centred development through a structured yet nurturing environment. Our team of qualified staff, including specialist SENCOs, delivers tailored early years education aligned with the EYFS curriculum, supported by a high staff-to-child ratio.We maintain strong partnerships with parents and external agencies to ensure individualised care, while our accessible premises and robust safeguarding policies reflect our commitment to inclusivity and safety. With over 30 years of community service, we provide funded places for eligible 2-4 year olds and operate as a non-profit organisation, reinvesting all income into maintaining high-quality resources and facilities.
Services
Childcare
Early Education
SEN Support
Funded Places
Outdoor Play
Highlights and features
- We maintain a high staff-to-child ratio for individualised attention
- Our SENCOs hold specialist qualifications including Elklan Level 3 training
- We operate from fully accessible premises with dedicated outdoor spaces
- Our team includes 9 Level 3 qualified staff and 10 paediatric first aiders
- We partner with local schools for seamless educational transitions
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted
Services
Childcare
Our childcare service provides a safe, stimulating environment for children aged 2 to school age. With a 1:8 staff-to-child ratio, we offer structured activities aligned with the EYFS curriculum. Our Ofsted-registered facility includes two playrooms and secure outdoor spaces, ensuring balanced physical and cognitive development through play-based learning.
SEN Support
Specialist SEN support includes two qualified SENCOs with autism training and Elklan Level 3 accreditation. We implement individualised learning journals and collaborate with external professionals to create tailored development plans. Our accessible premises feature visual timetables and adaptable resources to support diverse learning needs.
Early Education
Our early education programme follows the EYFS framework across seven learning areas. Qualified staff deliver play-based learning through themed activities that develop literacy, numeracy, and social skills. We maintain detailed progress records and provide transition support to local schools, ensuring continuity in educational development.
Funded Places
We offer government-funded places for eligible 2-year-olds and 3-4 year olds. Our non-profit status ensures all funding directly benefits children through enhanced resources and specialist equipment. Parents receive guidance on eligibility criteria and application processes during initial consultations with our admissions team.
Outdoor Play
Two dedicated outdoor spaces promote physical development and nature exploration. Our secure play areas feature age-appropriate equipment, sensory gardens, and designated zones for creative play. Daily outdoor sessions encourage motor skill development while our risk assessment protocols ensure safety in all weather conditions.
People
Lynn Bridger
Pre-school Supervisor
Lynn oversees daily operations with 15 years' experience in early years education. She implements safeguarding protocols and manages staff training, ensuring compliance with Ofsted standards while maintaining community partnerships.
Debbie Albon
SENCO
Debbie specialises in special educational needs with Elklan Level 3 accreditation. She coordinates individual support plans, conducts developmental assessments, and provides training to staff on inclusive teaching practices for children with diverse needs.
Questions
What age range do you accept?
We accept children from 2 years old up to school age, with most joining from 2.5 years unless exceptional circumstances apply.
Do you offer funded places?
Yes, we provide government-funded places for eligible 2-year-olds and all 3-4 year olds, subject to eligibility criteria verification.
How do you support children with SEN?
Our two SENCOs create individualised learning journals, implement visual timetables, and coordinate 1:1 support while collaborating with external specialists as needed.
Is your facility accessible?
Our building is fully wheelchair accessible with adapted toilets, sensory resources, and a foldable ramp for ease of access to all areas.
What safety measures are in place?
We conduct daily risk assessments, maintain paediatric first aid-trained staff, and follow strict infection control policies to ensure child safety at all times.
How do you involve parents?
We operate an open-door policy with daily communication, parent committee involvement, and regular progress updates through learning journals and formal consultations.
