Business Details
Trusted Early Years Education & Childcare in Verwood
At Hillside Pre School, we have dedicated over three decades to delivering high-quality early years education rooted in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. Our experienced team, including qualified educators with NVQ Level 3 and higher qualifications, specialises in creating a nurturing, play-based environment that prioritises communication and language development as the cornerstone of all learning. We implement the Mosaic Approach to understand each child's unique perspective, fostering curiosity, resilience, and confidence while celebrating diversity and building community. Our inclusive setting adapts to individual needs, ensuring accessibility for all children, and we maintain strong partnerships with families through our key-person system.Recognised by Ofsted for our commitment to continuity and cultural inclusivity, we offer flexible hours, wraparound care through Breakfast and After School Clubs, and innovative programmes like Healthy Movers to support physical and social-emotional development. Our staff hold essential certifications in safeguarding, food hygiene, and first aid, while our policies align with GDPR and British values. We empower parents through resources and training to extend language development into the home environment.
Services
Early Years Education
Breakfast Club
After School Club
Healthy Movers Programme
Inclusive Environment
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in early years education with qualified staff holding NVQ Level 3 and higher qualifications
- Our setting is Ofsted-recognised for cultural inclusivity and continuity of care across generations
- We implement the Mosaic Approach to understand each child's unique perspective
- Our Healthy Movers programme develops physical literacy and social-emotional wellbeing
- We maintain 100% staff qualification coverage in safeguarding, food hygiene, and first aid
What people say
Nurturing environment
Experienced qualified staff
Celebrate diversity
Strong language support
Effective transition process
Services
Early Years Education
Our EYFS-compliant programme develops key skills across seven learning areas through play-based activities. Qualified educators create individualised learning journeys that build communication, creativity, and social skills while preparing children for school transition. Daily routines incorporate literacy, numeracy, and physical development.
Breakfast Club
Supervised care from 7:45am with nutritious breakfast options. Children receive warm toast, cereal, and fruit while engaging in pre-school activities before classroom transition. Staff qualified in food hygiene and first aid ensure safe, structured morning routines.
After School Club
Extended childcare from 3-6pm Monday-Thursday and 3-5pm Friday. Includes homework support, outdoor play, and creative activities. Qualified staff provide snacks like pasta, vegetables, and fruit while maintaining continuity with preschool values.
Healthy Movers Programme
Public Health Dorset-commissioned initiative enhancing physical literacy and social-emotional skills. Structured activities improve coordination and confidence while integrating language development through movement-based learning experiences aligned with national health guidelines.
Inclusive Environment
Adapted facilities and trained SENDCo staff support children with diverse needs. Individualised care plans and specialist resources ensure equal access to learning opportunities. Regular parent consultations maintain consistent support strategies across home and preschool settings.
People
Elaine Ford
Preschool Manager & DSL
With over 30 years' experience, Elaine holds a Foundation Degree in Early Years and serves as Designated Safeguarding Lead. She oversees daily operations and staff training while maintaining Ofsted compliance.
Melanie Pitcher
Deputy Manager & DDSL
A qualified Early Years Teacher with 20 years' service, Melanie manages the After School Club and implements safeguarding protocols. She holds a BA in Early Years and EYTS certification.
Paula Long
Deputy Manager & SENCo
With 15 years' experience, Paula holds NVQ Level 3 and Level 4 qualifications. She coordinates special educational needs provision and implements individualised learning plans for children requiring additional support.
Jessica Kirby
Early Years Educator
Qualified with Level 2 and 3 EYE certifications, Jess leads the Healthy Movers Programme. With 10 years' experience, she specialises in physical development and outdoor learning activities.
Marian Smith
SEND Co-ordinator
An NVQ Level 3 qualified supervisor with 20 years' service, Marian provides specialist support for children with communication and language needs through tailored intervention strategies.
Questions
What age range do you accept?
We accept children aged 2 to 5 years, providing tailored early years education aligned with the EYFS framework.
Are you Ofsted registered?
Yes, we are an Ofsted-registered preschool with a strong track record of compliance and quality childcare provision since our establishment.
Do you offer flexible hours?
We provide flexible session options to accommodate family needs. Contact our office to discuss specific requirements and availability.
What qualifications do staff hold?
All staff maintain current safeguarding, food hygiene, and first aid certifications. Our leadership team holds NVQ Level 3 and higher early years qualifications.
How do you support special educational needs?
Our SENDCo team implements individualised plans with specialist resources. We maintain a 1:8 staff-child ratio and collaborate closely with parents to address specific requirements.
What is the Healthy Movers Programme?
This Public Health Dorset initiative develops physical literacy and social skills through structured activities that also enhance language development and school readiness.
Reviews (5)
Laura Waite
May 04, 2021
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When my son started, he was petrified. He cried every single drop off, and it absolutely broke my heart! The girls at Hillside showed their immense patience, kindness and outstanding experience with shy, nervous children. Before long Logan began to calm when he was left, join in activities, make friends and slowly I could see his confidence grow.
… Fast forward a year, and a LOT of input, and encouragement from Hillside, and he now runs through the gate.. forgetting to even say goodbye to me!! He enjoys every single second of Pre School, and can't wait to go back the next day. He has learnt
… Fast forward a year, and a LOT of input, and encouragement from Hillside, and he now runs through the gate.. forgetting to even say goodbye to me!! He enjoys every single second of Pre School, and can't wait to go back the next day. He has learnt
Kristynka Haxha Lazenska
Feb 12, 2021
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Wonderful pre-school! Amazing teachers🤗Best pre-school in the area. I only wish I had signed up my son earlier than I did as he has learned so much whilst since he started pre-school. The children do something different , fun and educational every day and get amazing support from everyone. Their approach to all the children is amazing and nothing is too much trouble. You could just see how happy everyone is from teachers to children and parents. Couldn’t recommend highly enough. ❤️❤️❤️
Sarah Lee
Jul 20, 2020
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From the beginning, Hillside Preschool have been outstanding. Both of my children have thoroughly enjoyed their time here and were very sad to leave. The success of the preschool is down to the hard work and dedication of all the staff; they always go that step further and I have been amazed at what the children have achieved and experienced. The communication is excellent and the support we received at a difficult family time was above and beyond. The staff truly care and this shines through effortlessly. Thank you Hillside Preschool!
Lisa Trickey
Sep 28, 2019
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This a wonderful play group all my oldest 3 went there and my youngest is due to go after Christmas and I can not fault it. the staff are lovely and nothing is too much trouble. the staff are extremely friendly wouldn't send my children anywhere else 😀xx
Susan Baker
Jul 17, 2019
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Thankyou for an amazing 21 months with my daughter. The staff are very hard working, patience, supportive and understanding. Best choice of pre schools by far!
