Bradshaw Primary SchoolLittle Acorns Preschool
Our Little Acorns Preschool provides a nurturing and stimulating environment where young children develop confidence, curiosity and a love of learning. Led by experienced Early Years Educators, learning supports early literacy, numeracy and social skills - giving each child the best possible start to their education.
Admissions
We offer both 15-hour and 30-hour funded places for pupils aged 3-4 years old. For further information on funding eligibility, see the funding section below.
You can apply for your child to start with us from the school term that follows their 3rd birthday. The school terms for the academic year 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 are as follows:
- Autumn 2025: commencing September 2025
- Spring 2026: commencing January 2026
- Summer 2026: commencing April 2026
- Autumn 2026: commencing September 2026
- Spring 2027: commencing January 2027
- Summer 2027: commencing April 2027
For example, if your child turns 3 prior to September 2025, you can apply for a September start. If your child turns 3 between September and January, you can apply for a January start, and so on.
To apply for a place in our Preschool, please complete the Expression of Interest form below. Please ensure you familiarise yourself with our session options (see below) in order to indicate your preference.
Please note, you will not be contacted regarding your application until we begin allocating places - this happens during the school term immediately before the intake term you have applied for:
| Intake Term | When places are allocated |
| Autumn 2025 (September start) | Summer 2025 (late April to July) |
| Spring 2026 (January start) | Autumn 2025 (late September to December) |
| Summer 2026 (April start) | Spring 2026 (late January to March) |
Funding
All parents of children aged 3-4 years old receive 15-hours of universal funding.
Some parents may be eligible for 30-hours of Government funding - for further information on eligibility criteria and how to apply: Click Here.
Wrap-around Care
All pupils at Bradshaw from preschool through to year 6 can access our Bradshaw Buddies breakfast and afterschool clubs. Sessions run from 7:30am to 6pm.
For further information, click here.
Sessions
We offer a variety of different preschool sessions to suit parents, whether you receive 15-hours or 30-hours funding.
As a school-based early years setting, we model our preschool offering on the school day.
Parents are strongly encouraged to opt into the additional hours within each option as this fulfils the school timetable and gives children the chance to experience an authentic school day. We feel children benefit massively from the extra learning time and also enjoy a much smoother transition into Reception and full-time education.
Option 1: Full Time (30 Hours Funded)
Available only to those eligible for 30-hours of Government funding.
Total hours = 33 hours and 20 minutes
Cost to Parents/Carers:
30 hours funded (Core Hours) = No charge (if eligible)
*3 hours and 20 minutes additional per week (including school lunch) = £6 per day
*Please note, if you wish to opt out of the additional hours for this option, please see Option 7 - availability is limited.
Option 2: Full Time (15 Hours Funded)
Total hours = 33 hours and 20 minutes
Cost to Parents/Carers:
15 hours funded = No charge
18 hours and 20 minutes additional per week (including school lunch) = £107.50 per week
Option 3: Mornings
Total hours = 16 hours and 40 minutes
Cost to Parents/Carers:
15 hours funded (Core Hours) = No charge
1 hour and 40 minutes additional per week (including school lunch) = £6 per day
Children who attend for just the core hours must bring their own packed lunch.
Option 4: Afternoons
Total hours = 21 hours and 15 minutes
Cost to Parents/Carers:
15 hours funded (Core Hours) = No charge
6 hours and 15 minutes additional per week (including school lunch) = £6 per day
Children who attend for just the core hours must bring their own packed lunch.
Option 5: Monday to Wednesday
Total hours = 17 hours
Cost to Parents/Carers:
15 hours funded (Core Hours) = No charge
2 hours additional per week (including school lunch) = £6 per day
Children who attend for just the core hours must bring their own packed lunch.
Option 6: Wednesday to Friday
Total hours = 17 hours and 35 minutes
Cost to Parents/Carers:
15 hours funded (Core Hours) = No charge
2 hours and 35 minutes additional per week (including school lunch) = £6 per day
Children who attend for just the core hours must bring their own packed lunch.
Option 7: Full Time (Core Hours)
Available only to those eligible for 30-hours of Government funding.
Total hours = 30 hours
Cost to Parents/Carers:
30 hours funded (Core Hours) = No charge
Children who attend for just the core hours must bring their own packed lunch.
Contracts
Payments can be made by the options below:
- ParentPay - using the 'Little Acorns Monthly Contract' tab
- Standing Order - please ring the office or pop in for a form
- Tax Free Childcare by visiting: www.gov.uk/help-with-childcare-costs/tax-free-childcare
- Childcare Vouchers - please speak to your work place HR department for further information
If you have any questions or require further information, please email admin@bradshawschool.co.uk or alternatively call the school office on 01422 244283.