Nurturing Young Minds, Building Brighter Futures
St. Mary's Pre-School Playgroup is a friendly and dynamic educational institution located in the heart of Old Hayes, Kent. With over 200 years of history, our playgroup has been providing a nurturing and stimulating environment for children between the ages of 2 1/2 and 5 years. Our mission is to encourage learning through free and structured play, developing imagination, social interaction, and self-expression.
Our Services
We offer a wide range of activities that cater to the diverse needs and interests of our young learners. Our two well-equipped halls and a large secure outside garden provide ample opportunities for children to explore, create, and learn. Our imaginative play resources include large sponge bricks, crates, and boxes that transform into spaceships, camps, and more. We also have a messy kitchen, water areas, playhouse, and bikes that encourage children to engage in role-playing and creative activities.
Our Staff
We are proud to have a team of dedicated and experienced staff members who are passionate about providing high-quality education and care. Our team of 13 staff members have a combined service of 114 years at St. Mary's, with two members having attended the playgroup when they were children and seven of our own staff's children having been through St. Mary's. All of our staff hold a childcare qualification and are trained in first aid.
Our History
The history of St. Mary's Playgroup dates back to 1791, when Lord Lewisham provided a property for a school-house on the site of what is now known as the Old Church School. The school, then known as Hayes Charity School, opened on June 27th, 1791, with 38 children. Lady Lewisham donated books, and children who left the school were given Bibles only if they deserved them! The school remained at the Old Church School until 1937, when a new school was built in George Lane. In 1963, St. Mary's Nursery School was established at the Old Church Schools, and in 2023, we celebrated our 60th anniversary.
Our Commitment
At St. Mary's Pre-School Playgroup, we are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and social skills. Our dedicated team is dedicated to delivering high-quality education and care, and we take pride in our excellent partnership with parents, who are actively involved in the fundraising group, "Friends of St. Mary's Pre-School Playgroup". Our children leave us confident, smiling, and bursting with enthusiasm, prepared for success at school.
