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The Village Pre-School, Upham
Yes; we know it's not purple. This is the colour of The Village Pre-School, Upham.
Who we are
The Village Pre-School, Upham is a long-standing village setting with deep roots in the local community. While Parrywood Childcare has grown, evolved and weathered change over the years, Upham remains exactly what it has always been at heart; a warm, familiar place where children are known, supported and celebrated as individuals. We are proud of our history - but we are equally focused on the present and the future we are building for the children and families we serve today.
Our Children
We welcome children from 3 months - 5 years old, offering a nurturing-play based environment that supports early development, curiosity, and confidence.
Every child develops at their own pace. Our role is not to rush them - but walk alongside them.
Our Day
We are open from 7:30am - 5:00pm Monday - Friday, term time only. There are additional closure days throughout the year, such as in May to allow elections to take place (the Village Hall is used as a polling station).
A typical day includes:
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Child-led play and exploration
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Adult-guided activities that follow children's interests
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Time outdoors in all but the wildest weather
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Space to rest, reflect, and reset
Structure gives children security. Flexibility gives them freedom. We balance both.
Our Approach
Our practice is guided by The Village Way - our ethos.
This means:
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Relationships come first
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Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility
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Communication is open, honest and respectful
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Children are supported as whole humans, not tick-boxes
Our Place in the community
Upham is not just where we are - it's who we are.
We value:
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Strong relationships with families
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Familiar faces and continuity
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Being part of village life, not separate from it.
Many families return to us across siblings and generations. We consider that a privilege.
Looking ahead
We are reflective, responsive and always learning - whether thats through leadership development, curriculum refinement, or adapting to the changing landscape of early years education.
What will never change is our commitment to:
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Children's wellbeing
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Ethical decision-making
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Doing what is right, even when it is hard
The future is still being written - and we're proud to be here for it.