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About Us

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A Legacy of Learning in Prettygate

Since opening our doors in 1973, Centre Pre-School has been at the heart of the Prettygate community. As a charity-run setting, we aren’t just a childcare provider; we are a family.

For over 50 years, we have been dedicated to giving local children the very best start in life, providing a safe, nurturing, and vibrant environment where they can begin their educational journey.

Meet the Team

Our team is a dedicated group of professionals who are passionate about early years education.

Alison Barry

Manager

  • Level 5 in Early Years
  • Safeguarding Lead
  • SENCO trained
  • Paediatric First Aid trained
Alison leads the team with a focus on creating a family centred atmosphere where every child feels at home and heard.

Tracey Jeffries

Deputy Manager

  • Level 3 in Early Years
  • Health and Safety Officer
  • Paediatric First Aid trained
  • Paediatric First Aid trained
With over 20 years of experience, Tracey supports Alison in ensuring every child is treated as an individual and encouraged to grow.

Andrea Burns

Pre-School Assistant

  • Level 3 in Early Years
  • Safeguarding Deputy Lead
  • Paediatric First Aid trained

With over 15 years of experience in early years, Andrea looks after the children to make them feel safe and help them grow.

Jo Cresswell

Pre-School Assistant

  • Level 2 in Early Years
  • Paediatric First Aid trained

With over 20 years of experience in early years. Jo looks after the children to make them feel individual and help them grow

Katie Hale

Pre-School Assistant

  • Level 3 Apprentice
  • SENCO trained
  • Paediatric First Aid trained
Katie is one of our newest member of staff, she is our SENCO and works very closely with our families to help them through their journey.

Marie Manning

Pre-School Assistant

  • Level 3 in Early Years
  • Paediatric First Aid trained
With over 5 years of experience in early years. Marie looks after the children and helps them to feel individual and help them grow

Our Ethos: Nurturing the Individual

At Centre Pre-School, we believe that every child is a unique individual. Our goal is to ensure that every child feels heard, nurtured, and given the physical and emotional space they need to grow. We focus on:
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Learning Through Play

Encouraging children to use their imaginations and lead us on their own unique learning journeys.

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Building Independence

Supporting children as they find their feet and gain confidence in their abilities.
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Strong Foundations

Forming deep, lasting bonds with both the children and their families.

Our Facilities & Specialist Support

We pride ourselves on being an inclusive setting.

We feature a designated Sensory Area, providing a calm and supportive environment for all children, particularly those with SEN (Special Educational Needs).

This space allows children to self-regulate and explore in a way that suits their personal needs.

Safety & Peace of Mind

Child Safety as Our Top Priority

The safety and safeguarding of every child in our care is our absolute priority.

Comprehensive Safeguarding Policy

We operate a rigorous safeguarding policy, ensuring a secure environment where children are free to explore and learn with confidence.

Open-Door Communication Policy

We also maintain an open-door policy—we are always here for a chat, whether it's a quick update at drop-off or a more in-depth discussion.

Funding and Admissions

We welcome children from age 2 until they start primary school. We accept:

  • 2 year old funding
  • 30 hours funding for eligible families

Visit Us

Choosing a pre-school is an important decision. We would love to show you around and answer any questions you may have.

Phone

01206 573341

Location

329 Straight Rd, Colchester CO3 9EF