About the Preschool
About Us
Frome Valley Preschool opened in September 2012 and is an integral part of Frome Valley First School. It provides high quality preschool education and care for children aged 2 years to 5 years. Our fully trained staff support the individual learning needs of the child and through the use of observations and assessments builds up a unique picture of their learning journey.
PRESCHOOL SESSIONS
Afternoon session 12.00pm to 3.00pm
EARLY EDUCATION FUNDING FOR 2 YEAR OLDS.
EARLY EDUCATION FUNDING FOR 3 & 4 YEAR OLDS
All children aged 3 and 4 years are entitled to receive 15 hours of funded early learning and childcare per week for 38 weeks a year. This will start the term following their third birthday up to and including the term in which they turn five or start at a state maintained school, whichever comes first.
The term dates for this purpose are set by the Secretary of State and are:
- Autumn term: 1 September to 31 December
- Spring term: 1 January to 31 March
- Summer term: 1 April to 31 August
You can usually get 30 hours free childcare if you (and your partner, if you have one) are:
- in work - or getting parental leave, sick leave or annual leave
- each earning at least the National Minimum Wage or Living Wage for 16 hours a week - this is £125.28 if you’re over 25
This earnings limit does not apply if you’re self-employed and started your business less than 12 months ago.
You can get 30 hours free childcare at the same time as claiming Universal Credit, tax credits, childcare vouchers or Tax-Free Childcare.
You’re not eligible if:
- your child does not usually live with you
- either you or your partner has a taxable income over £100,000
- you’re from outside the EEA and your UK residence card says you cannot access public funds
To apply you’ll need your details (and your partner’s, if you have one), including your:
- National Insurance number or
- Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), if you’re self-employed
It takes 20 minutes to apply. You may find out if you’re eligible straight away, but it can take up to 7 days.
Once you have your unique code you will need to bring it to the pre-school for the second eligibility check. You can then book sessions for your child. (subject to availability) You will also need to confirm eligibility every three months in order to continue claiming the extra funding. This can be done through your personal account with the HMRC. Any questions please speak to Gemma the manager.
FEES
Parents and Carers claiming Early Years funding have their child’s fees paid directly to the Preschool by Dorset County Council. Parents not entitled to this funding or who register their child for additional weekly sessions the fees are as follows:
Morning session (9am - 12pm) £12.75 Two Year Old morning session (9am-12pm) £16.00
Afternoon Session (12pm - 3pm) £12.75 Two year Old afternoon session (12pm -3pm) £16.00
Full Day (9am - 3pm) £23.50 Two Year Old Full Day (9am - 3pm) £30.00
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Gemma
Childcare Manager
g.florance@fromevalley.dorset.sch.ukGemma has worked in childcare for over 20 years. She has managed two 56 place settings before joining Frome Valley preschool in September 2017. She has a Fda in Early Years and holds various other qualifications such as paediatric first aid, safe guarding Level 3 and most recently studied the Incredible Beginnings programme. She has also undertaken other training courses provider in the local area. Gemma is the designated Safeguarding lead for the setting and also the behaviour coordinator.
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Emma
Deputy Manager
Emma has worked within childcare for 6 years. Starting out as a volunteer and then training for her NVQ level 3 in Childcare. She is passionate about all aspects of the learning and development of children, in particular their mental health and well being and the importance of music and movement in their education. Emma holds paediatric first aid, incredible beginnings and safeguarding level 3 qualifications. Emma is the Deputy DSL of the setting.
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Kylie
Childcare assistant / SENCo
Kylie has worked in childcare for over 14 years in a variety of different settings. Kylie holds a Level 3 childcare qualification , also a paediatric first aid and an level 2 qualification in safeguarding. Kylie shows passion and drive in her role as the SEND coordinator of the setting, making sure that the children are being supported in their learning and development. She prides herself or making and securing strong bonds with parents as partners in the setting.
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Paula
Childcare Assistant
Paula has worked within childcare for over 19 years. She holds a NVQ level 3 in childcare and a level two in safeguarding. She also holds her Paediatric first aid. Paula is one of our part time members of staff working three days in the setting. She works closely with the children developing strong bonds and has a drive for the learning and development for all the children in the setting.
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Nicole
Childcare Assistant
Nicole joined our team in October 2020. She has a degree in English and wanted to experience working with within a preschool environment to make an impact and a difference to young children's lives. She is currently researching extending her studies into childcare and education.
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Bianca
Childcare Assistant
Bianca has been with the setting since October 2020 on a fixed term contract which we have now extended as she has brought so much to the setting, children and team. She has qualifications in health and social care and is currently studying for a English literature and Language Degree.