Business Details
31 Years
experience
Trusted Preschool in Harpenden for Early Childhood Development
Highfield Preschool in Harpenden has been dedicated to providing exceptional early childhood education since 1995. Our team of highly qualified educators, including a Level 6 Early Years Professional and multiple Level 3 qualified practitioners, creates a nurturing environment where children aged 2 to 5 thrive. We combine structured learning with free play, following the Early Years Foundation Stage framework to develop essential skills across all developmental areas. Our Christian ethos permeates every activity, fostering spiritual growth alongside academic preparation for primary school. With 26 years of leadership from Manager Sandra Case, we maintain strong partnerships with local schools like The King's School while welcoming families from diverse backgrounds.Our spacious outdoor facilities and specialist programs in music, physical education, and SEN support ensure comprehensive development. Regular assessments and open communication with parents guarantee each child receives personalized attention. We pride ourselves on creating a home-from-home atmosphere where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Our commitment to quality has been consistently recognized through positive Ofsted reports and generations of satisfied families. From transition support for young toddlers to school readiness programs for pre-reception children, we deliver a balanced curriculum that nurtures every aspect of early development.
Services
Preschool Education
Christian-Based Curriculum
Outdoor Learning
Music Activities
SEN Support
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- 26 years of leadership from Level 6 Early Years Professional
- Christian values integrated into daily learning activities
- Specialist music and PE programs with qualified instructors
- Extensive outdoor learning in private YWAM Oval grounds
- Personalized SEN support from dedicated specialists
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted
What people say
Caring, nurturing environment
Excellent preparation for school
Supportive staff
Loving atmosphere
Engaging activities
Services
Preschool Education
Our structured EYFS-compliant program develops essential skills through age-appropriate activities. Three distinct groups (Lamb, Dove, Lion) ensure tailored learning experiences that progress from basic social skills to school readiness. Daily routines combine structured lessons with free play, emphasizing both academic foundations and personal development in a Christian environment.
Christian-Based Curriculum
Biblical values are integrated into all activities, teaching children about God's love and Jesus' teachings. Weekly worship sessions, Bible stories, and ethical discussions form part of daily routines. The curriculum fosters spiritual growth alongside academic development, creating a holistic educational experience that respects diverse family backgrounds while maintaining Christian principles.
Outdoor Learning
Daily outdoor sessions utilize our private YWAM Oval grounds for physical development and nature exploration. Children engage in structured play, gardening projects, and environmental learning across two daily sessions. The spacious grounds support gross motor skills, imaginative play, and sensory experiences that complement classroom learning through practical application.
Music Activities
Specialist music sessions develop rhythm, coordination, and creative expression. Qualified instructors lead age-appropriate activities including singing, instrument play, and movement exercises. Daily praise sessions with live piano accompaniment build musical appreciation while supporting language development and group participation skills in a joyful, engaging format.
SEN Support
Dedicated SENCO Debbie Clark and specialist staff provide individualized support for children with additional needs. Tailored 1-1 sessions, sensory activities, and collaboration with external professionals ensure inclusive learning. The preschool maintains strong partnerships with parents and specialists to create personalized development plans that maximize each child's potential in a supportive environment.
People
Sandra Case
Manager & DSP
With 26 years' leadership experience and Level 6 Early Years Professional status, Mrs. Case champions child-centred education. She creates welcoming environments where families feel heard and children develop confidence through hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for primary school.
Nikki Zapico
Deputy Manager
As Lamb class key worker with 13 years' experience, Mrs. Zapico specializes in early childhood transitions. Her Level 3 qualification supports nurturing care for 2-3 year olds, establishing routines that build confidence and social skills through patient, creative teaching methods.
Sulene Sypkens
Teaching Assistant
Lamb class assistant Sulene combines Level 3 Early Years expertise with exceptional patience. She leads cooking activities across all groups, using practical experiences to develop fine motor skills and sensory awareness in a gentle, supportive manner that comforts young children.
Debbie Clark
SENCO
With 17 years' experience and Level 3 qualifications, Mrs. Clark provides specialist SEN support. She coordinates individualized care plans, works with external professionals, and delivers targeted 1-1 sessions that help children with additional needs achieve their full potential through compassionate, expert guidance.
Nikki van Aardt
PE Teacher
Fully qualified Early Years teacher Nikki brings 7 years' experience to her PE instruction role. She combines physical education expertise with SEN support experience, delivering inclusive movement sessions that develop coordination and gross motor skills for all children.
Questions
What age range do you accept?
We accept children from 2 years old up to school age, with three distinct groups (Lamb, Dove, Lion) for appropriate developmental stages.
How does your Christian ethos influence daily activities?
Our Christian values shape all interactions through kindness, respect, and weekly worship sessions. Bible stories, prayer times, and ethical teachings are naturally integrated into daily routines while respecting diverse family backgrounds.
What outdoor facilities do you offer?
Children access our private YWAM Oval grounds twice daily for physical play, gardening projects, and nature exploration across extensive, secure outdoor learning spaces.
How do you support children with special needs?
Our dedicated SENCO and specialist staff provide individualized 1-1 support, sensory activities, and tailored development plans in collaboration with parents and external professionals to ensure inclusive learning experiences.
What are your operating hours?
Term-time only, Monday-Friday 9am-3pm, with flexible session options including morning, afternoon, or full-day attendance.
How do you prepare children for primary school?
Our Lion group program focuses on school readiness through structured learning, transition support, and partnerships with local primary schools like The King's School.
