Expansion of Early Years provision from September 2026

We are thrilled to announce the launch of a new Pre-Prep class, opening in September 2026, designed as a dedicated transition year between nursery and Prep Reception.

The Pre-Prep year will provide children aged 3-4 with a nurturing start that builds confidence, curiosity and school readiness, alongside the foundations for early learning.

The Pre-Prep Year will initially offer small class sizes, with the school planning to grow capacity in line with demand.

Pre-Prep will combine purposeful play with teacher-led learning, including early phonics and core skills development, alongside enrichment such as outdoor learning and physical development. Children will also benefit from access to specialist facilities that most early years facilities simply do not have, including the on-site swimming pool, theatre and recording studio, and outdoor learning spaces including ‘William’s Wood’.

Children and families will also benefit from continuity in values, routines and pastoral care as children progress through the school.

Judith Dixon, Head of Early Years said “Children enjoy specialist, teacher-led learning from the very start of their journey. Through phonics, early reading, writing and numbers, they build strong foundations that support them to achieve beyond what is typically expected at this age while still learning in a way that feels joyful and active through purposeful play.”

To launch the new provision, the Pre-Prep Launch Day will be held on 13 February 2026, inviting both current and prospective families to meet the team, hear more about the vision for Early Years, and experience the school environment. Book here.

There will also be a series of small-group discovery sessions, ‘Little Explorer Afternoons’, to give families a relaxed opportunity to visit and learn more. They will be held between 2-3pm on 27 March, 15 May and 19 June 2026. Book here.

For more information about Pre-Prep at Westholme School, including event registration details, please visit: Welcome to Pre-Prep