Watton at Stone Preschool Admissions Guidelines and FAQs

It is our intention to make our setting accessible to children and families from all sections of the local community. We aim to ensure that all sections of our community have access to the setting through open, fair and clearly communicated procedures.

We take great pride in the development of the children in our care and the environment we create to keep them safe and having plenty of fun.  We warmly invite all potential applicants to visit the Preschool with your child and experience the setting first hand.  Please contact the Preschool Office from 8.30am – 12.30pm to arrange an appointment to visit.

The Admissions Process – FAQs

Q: How do I register my interest in my child starting at Preschool?

A:  Parents are invited to complete a Register of Interest form to add their child’s details to our waiting list. Click the link above to download the form and email/ post it or pop into the Preschool Office.

Q: At what age can my child start?

A: If there are spaces available we accept children from the age of 2.

Q: When will I know if we have a place?

A: If you have completed a Register of Interest form then when a space becomes available for your child we will contact you to discuss the sessions that may be suitable.  

Q: Is it first come first served?

A: No. Our Admissions procedure is determined according to the fairest methods possible. Therefore, we consult with parents in order of their child’s birthdate starting with those children who have turned 3 and work backwards.  

Q: My child has been confirmed to start at Preschool. What now?

A:  When we confirm the starting date and the sessions that your child has been allocated we will also send you an Admissions Pack. This contains crucial documents for you to complete regarding your child’s needs within the setting. It is important for you to complete and return this pack as soon as possible before the start of term to ensure your child has everything they need.  At the same time, we will arrange a home visit at the start of term and you and your child will be invited to a Stay and Play session.

Q: What’s a Home Visit?

A: At the beginning of the term when your child starts Preschool 2 of our Early Years Practitioners will arrange to visit you and your child at home. This helps your child familiarise themselves with members of the team in a comfortable environment. It also enables the team to learn as much as possible about your child in their familiar, comfortable environment to help with the settling in process at Preschool.

Q: What if my child isn’t settling?

A:  Each child is allocated a Keyworker from amongst the Early Years Practitioners.  This keyworker will pay particular attention to your child’s needs as they settle into Preschool and will be your first contact should you or they have any questions or concerns.  You are always welcome to stay with your child as long as they need to ensure they are happy and secure. We will always contact you if your child is not settling happily or is in any distress. You can speak to your Keyworker or any member of staff about any questions or concerns you may have at any time.