Nurture - Inspire - Achieve
Hillside Pre-School, located in the charming town of Verwood, Dorset, has been a cornerstone of early education for the community since 1993. Nestled in the grounds of Hillside First School, our pre-school is proudly committee-run and boasts a curriculum led by our experienced Manager and Early Years Teacher. With a reputation for nurturing and qualified practitioners, and a high staff to child ratio, we are committed to making every child feel welcome and ensuring that their individual needs are acknowledged and met.
Our setting offers flexible hours and accommodates a Breakfast Club and After School club for the convenience of families with children attending Hillside First School and pre-school. We are proud of our diverse community and our commitment to respecting all views and cultures is reflected in our daily interactions and learning experiences.
Our Aim
At Hillside Pre-School, we strive to create an inclusive and stimulating environment where everyone is welcome. We believe that learning from one another is the foundation of growth, and we are committed to respecting all views and cultures. Our aim is to inspire and achieve by fostering a love of learning and a respect for the differences that make us unique.
We invite you to visit our Facebook and Instagram pages for a glimpse into the wonderful world of our pre-school.
Our Team
Our dedicated staff team is led by a management team with a wealth of experience and qualifications. We are proud to have a team of supervisors, at least NVQ (or equivalent) level 3 qualified, who are invested in the well-being and education of our children. Our team includes:
- Elaine Ford, Pre-school Manager and Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
- Melanie Pitcher, Deputy Manager and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) and Early Years Teacher
- Paula Long, Deputy Manager and pre-school SEND coordinator
Our key-person approach is at the heart of our pre-school. We believe that building secure and trusting relationships with our children is essential for their happiness, confidence, and overall development.
Our Key-person Approach
When your child starts pre-school, they will be carefully paired with a key-person who will work in partnership with parents and carers to ensure that their child feels safe, secure, and cherished. Our staff are dedicated to creating a positive and exciting environment that fosters a love of learning and respect for others.
At Hillside Pre-School, we are proud of our long-standing history and the generations of children who have attended our setting. We are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all, and we are delighted to have been recognized by Ofsted for our dedication to embracing the cultures and experiences of children.
(Ofsted Inspection, February 2022):
- "The pre-school has served the community for many years and generations of children have attended the setting, which helps support continuity for the families that attend."
- "The cultures and experiences of children are fully embraced by staff"
- "Children access a well-planned environment that is rich in learning opportunities and experiences, and they learn to be respectful of, and interested in, the differences between themselves and others."
Excellent Pre-School Experience
Hillside Pre-School has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents. The staff are described as patient, kind, and experienced, particularly with shy and nervous children. They provide a nurturing environment that helps children develop their confidence and prepares them for school.
Fantastic Teachers and Outstanding Development
The teachers at Hillside Pre-School are described as amazing, with parents noting the incredible progress their children have made during their time there. Parents appreciate the daily educational and fun activities provided by the staff, and the strong communication between the pre-school and parents.
Supportive and Understanding Staff
The staff at Hillside Pre-School are highly praised for their support and understanding. They go above and beyond to ensure the happiness and well-being of the children in their care, and provide parents with the support they need during difficult times.
Best Pre-School in the Area
Hillside Pre-School is widely regarded as the best pre-school in the area, with parents noting the dedication of the staff and the outstanding experience provided for children. Parents appreciate the staff's ability to create a welcoming and supportive environment, and the positive impact this has on their children's development.

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