Farndon Fields Primary School celebrates £150,000 government funding boost for preschool expansion

It’s set to be a busy and exciting summer at Farndon Fields Primary School, as the school in Market Harborough prepares to enhance its much-loved preschool provision thanks to nearly £150,000 in investment from the Government.

The funding forms part of a national programme to expand childcare provision across more than 300 schools, helping working families access high-quality, convenient early years education.

At Farndon Fields Primary School, part of the Discovery Trust, the investment will transform the school’s existing preschool provision for three- and four-year-olds, which is currently oversubscribed and highly valued by parents.

The funding will support a full refurbishment of the current mobile building - inside and out - alongside improvements to outdoor learning spaces and security.

Planned upgrades include improved surfacing for play, zoned areas for learning and development, a new fence line, and a dedicated secure entrance. Additional features such as shaded outdoor areas are also being explored, with final plans to be confirmed as the project progresses.

Work is scheduled to begin during the May half term with roof improvements, followed by a six-week programme over the summer holidays. The project is set to be completed by the end of August, ready to welcome children into the enhanced setting for the new academic year.

The expanded provision will increase capacity from 26 to 32 preschool places, helping meet strong local demand.

It will also significantly extend opening hours, from the current term-time-only offer of 8am to 6pm, to a 51-week provision running from 7.30am to 6pm. This aligns with the school’s current wraparound care and holiday club provision, offering greater flexibility and convenience for working families, particularly those with children already attending the primary school.

Simone Harrison, Head Teacher at Farndon Fields Primary School, said:

"We are absolutely delighted to receive this funding, which will make such a meaningful difference to our school community. Our preschool is incredibly popular, and this investment allows us to enhance what we already offer while supporting more families with extended hours and year-round provision.

“Preschool hours now matching our wider school wraparound care and holiday club provision will be a real benefit for working parents, especially those with children across different age groups. It simplifies the school day and provides consistency for families.

“We’re also incredibly proud of our preschool team. The staff who lead this provision are truly fantastic and are a big part of why it is so well-loved. Their dedication and care create a nurturing environment where children thrive. Our preschool is fully part of the primary school community, giving children a strong sense of belonging from the very start.

“While we’re excited about the improvements ahead, plans are still being finalised, so we look forward to sharing more details as they develop. It’s going to be a busy summer, and we can’t wait to open the doors to our improved preschool in September.”

Farndon Fields’ preschool currently offers places for children aged three and above, with both 15- and 30-hour funded childcare options available. Sessions include breakfast and snacks, with school lunches offered.

This latest investment reflects the Government’s wider drive to expand access to childcare. Nationally, 331 schools in total have secured a share of the £45 million funding to build or expand nursery provision.

In its funding announcement, the Government said school-based nurseries are vital for families, which combined with its funded childcare offer, help to reduce costs, simplify daily routines, and support parents returning to work.

For more information about the preschool please visit https://farndonfields.org/pre-school/

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