Business Details
45 Years
experience
Quality Childcare in Bedford Since 1981
Established in 1981, Putnoe Woods Preschool has been a trusted provider of early years education and childcare in Bedford for over four decades. Originally operating as Rutherford Rascals from a school dining room, we transitioned to a purpose-built facility in 2014, expanding our capacity to serve 70 children per session. Our team of qualified professionals is dedicated to creating a safe, stimulating environment where children aged 6 months to 4 years develop foundational skills through play-based learning. We maintain strong partnerships with families, recognising parents as their child's first educators.Our Ofsted-registered setting follows the Early Years Statutory Framework, with structured transitions between age-specific playrooms. As a charitable limited company, we prioritise affordability and inclusivity while maintaining rigorous safeguarding standards. Our premises at Bedford Athletic Rugby Club feature purpose-designed play gardens and accessible facilities, with flexible booking options available throughout the year.
Services
Baby Room Care
Toddler Development
Preschool Education
Holiday Childcare
SEND Support
Nutritious Meals
Outdoor Learning
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- 41 years of specialist early years experience
- Purpose-built facilities with dedicated age-specific playrooms
- Qualified staff with safeguarding training
- Flexible 47-week annual operation
- Strong parental partnership approach
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted EY483058
- Charity Commission 1145918
What people say
Excellent early years care
Nurturing setting
Qualified staff
Great transition process
Nutritious meals
Services
Baby Room Care
Our Snowdrops Room provides nurturing care for babies aged 6 months to 2 years. Specially designed environments with age-appropriate resources support sensory development and early socialisation. Staff maintain 1:3 adult-child ratios to ensure individual attention and safe exploration.
Toddler Development
Buttercups Room offers structured play activities for 2-3 year olds. Our curriculum focuses on developing communication skills, motor coordination and basic numeracy through interactive games and creative projects aligned with EYFS standards.
Preschool Education
Bluebells Room prepares 3-4 year olds for formal education through themed learning centres. We develop literacy, mathematics and social skills using play-based methods that meet Early Years Foundation Stage requirements for school readiness.
Holiday Childcare
We operate 47 weeks annually including school holidays, providing consistent childcare for working families. Flexible session options accommodate different schedules while maintaining continuity in children's learning experiences throughout the year.
SEND Support
Our designated SEND coordinator implements individualised support plans for children with additional needs. We work closely with parents and external specialists to ensure inclusive participation in all activities with appropriate adaptations.
People
Jo Skelton
Preschool Manager
With over 15 years in early years education, Jo leads our team with expertise in safeguarding and curriculum development. She ensures our practices meet Ofsted standards while maintaining a nurturing environment for children.
Amanda Cowley
Deputy Manager
Amanda oversees daily operations in the preschool rooms, specialising in toddler development. Her safeguarding expertise ensures all children's welfare needs are promptly addressed within our regulatory framework.
Lucy Whitney
Business Manager
Lucy manages financial operations and strategic planning. With a background in charity administration, she ensures sustainable growth while maintaining our commitment to affordable childcare provision.
Caroline Statham
SEND Coordinator
Caroline specialises in supporting children with additional needs. She develops individualised learning plans and collaborates with external agencies to ensure inclusive access to our educational programmes.
Ayesha Johnson
Preschool Cook
Ayesha prepares nutritious meals following dietary guidelines. She creates balanced menus that accommodate various cultural preferences and allergy requirements while encouraging healthy eating habits.
Questions
What age range do you accept?
We care for children from 6 months to 4 years old, with dedicated playrooms for different developmental stages.
Are you Ofsted registered?
Yes, we hold Ofsted registration number EY483058 and follow the Early Years Statutory Framework.
Do you operate during school holidays?
We provide childcare 47 weeks annually, including most school holidays, with the exception of Christmas closure.
How do you support special educational needs?
Our designated SEND coordinator develops individualised plans in collaboration with parents and external specialists.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
All our team members hold relevant childcare qualifications with regular safeguarding and first aid training updates.
Can I visit before registering?
Yes, we welcome prospective families to arrange visits by calling 01234 267832 during operating hours.
Reviews (2)
Hannah J. Han Plans
Jan 30, 2019
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The team at Putnoe Woods Preschool are so lovely and helpful. They do an amazing job of looking after the kids and care for each one as an individual. So grateful for the care and attention given to my child each time hes there.
Claire Auffray
Oct 04, 2018
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My 2 daughters attend Putnoe Woods and they really enjoy it there. The teachers are all very attentive and hands on and the girls have lots of fun!
