Pre-School in Hemel Hempstead
What Is Pre-School?
Pre-school is an early years setting designed for children aged around 2 to 4, helping them prepare for primary school. It focuses on developing social, emotional, communication and basic academic skills through structured play and learning.
Children are encouraged to explore, build independence and form friendships in a safe and supportive environment. At Jack & Jill’s Nursery in Hemel Hempstead, our pre-school combines nurturing care with a well-rounded curriculum to give children the best possible start.
Contact us today to find out more! Complete our contact form, call 01442 244903 or email enquiries@jackandjillsdaynursery.co.uk.
Is Your Preschool Near Me?
If you are searching for the best preschool near me, Jack & Jill’s Nursery in Hemel Hempstead is a trusted choice for many local families. Conveniently located with easy access from nearby areas such as Kings Langley, St Albans and Boxmoor, our preschool offers a warm and engaging environment for young learners.
We focus on early development through a balance of guided learning and free play. Families looking for high quality preschool education close to home often find Jack & Jill’s to be the perfect fit! Simply complete our contact form, call 01442 244903 or email enquiries@jackandjillsdaynursery.co.uk to get your child started.
Jack & Jill's Offers The Best Hemel Hempstead Nursery And Preschool
Jack & Jill’s stands out in Hemel Hempstead for offering a nursery and preschool experience that blends indoor learning with outdoor exploration. Children benefit from a carefully planned curriculum supported by our on-site Forest School, encouraging confidence and curiosity.
The setting is designed to nurture individual growth in a safe and stimulating environment. With dedicated staff and a strong local reputation, Jack & Jill’s Nursery is a top choice for early years education in the area.
How To Apply For A Preschool Nursery
Step 1 - Research Preschools
Begin by exploring local preschool options that match your child’s needs and your schedule. Look into key features such as learning approach, location and extras like outdoor or forest school activities.
Step 2 - Arrange A Visit
Contact your chosen preschool to book a visit so that you can see the environment in action and speak with the team. Take note of how children are engaged and ask about routines, curriculum, fees and availability.
Step 3 - Complete A Preschool Application
Once you have decided, complete the application form provided by the preschool. Most settings, like Jack & Jill’s, will guide you through the next steps including settling in sessions and paperwork needed before your child starts.
Our approach
At Outdoor Owls we use an organic, play-based approach set outdoors following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) learning framework set by Ofsted (see here).
Our educational philosophy is child-led and guided by a couple of core principles. Firstly, we focus on what your child can do, not what they can’t. Secondly, we refrain from telling your child ‘what’ to think but rather facilitate them in ‘how’ to think.
By following these principles and not wrapping children in cotton wool, we believe your child will leave us strong and prepared for future learning and the rest of their lives.
Our methods
We have taken a sprinkle of inspiration from a mix of different play-based pedagogies to inspire our practice including Froebel, Reggio Emilia, Montessori, Steiner, and Forest Schools. We don’t constrict ourselves to one approach but rather prefer to tailor aspects to suit each unique child’s imagination and curiosity.
We use the outdoors as a powerful open-ended setting filled with natural resources. Hence we draw a lot from ‘Forest School’ methods which are set up to allow children to lead with their innate curiosity.
Our teacher to child ratio is 1:4 for 2 year olds and 1:8 for 3-5 year olds and different child ages are mixed together. This means children get a necessary amount for educator support and are able to watch and learn through others at different learning stages. As your child gets older with us they are able to take lead in supporting younger children around them. This helps to build your child’s confidence and cognitive flexibility.
What Preschool Activities Do You Offer?
- We include number activities for preschoolers that help develop early maths skills through playful counting, sorting and measuring games.
- We plan hands-on activities about shapes for preschoolers, using puzzles, building blocks and sensory play to encourage early shape recognition and problem-solving skills.
- Our arts and crafts sessions encourage creativity and fine motor development, allowing children to express themselves using a variety of materials.
- Daily activities also focus on storytelling, music and movement to support communication, confidence and physical development.
Our approach
At Outdoor Owls we use an organic, play-based approach set outdoors following the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) learning framework set by Ofsted (see here).
Our educational philosophy is child-led and guided by a couple of core principles. Firstly, we focus on what your child can do, not what they can’t. Secondly, we refrain from telling your child ‘what’ to think but rather facilitate them in ‘how’ to think.
By following these principles and not wrapping children in cotton wool, we believe your child will leave us strong and prepared for future learning and the rest of their lives.
Our methods
We have taken a sprinkle of inspiration from a mix of different play-based pedagogies to inspire our practice including Froebel, Reggio Emilia, Montessori, Steiner, and Forest Schools. We don’t constrict ourselves to one approach but rather prefer to tailor aspects to suit each unique child’s imagination and curiosity.
We use the outdoors as a powerful open-ended setting filled with natural resources. Hence we draw a lot from ‘Forest School’ methods which are set up to allow children to lead with their innate curiosity.
Our teacher to child ratio is 1:4 for 2 year olds and 1:8 for 3-5 year olds and different child ages are mixed together. This means children get a necessary amount for educator support and are able to watch and learn through others at different learning stages. As your child gets older with us they are able to take lead in supporting younger children around them. This helps to build your child’s confidence and cognitive flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is A Preschooler?
A preschooler is typically a child between the ages of 2 and 4 who is developing important social, emotional and cognitive skills. At this stage, children start to engage more deeply with their surroundings through interactive play, storytelling and guided activities, building the foundations for future education.
What Age Is Preschool?
Preschool usually begins for children around age 2 to 4, just before they start primary school. It is a key stage where little ones start building early learning habits in a playful and supportive setting.
Are There Games At Preschool?
Yes, games are a big part of preschool, helping children develop important social and motor skills through play. At Jack & Jill’s Nursery, little learners enjoy fun and interactive games everyday both indoors and outside.
Is Preschool Free?
All 3 and 4 year olds are entitled to 15 hours of free early education per week, starting the term after their third birthday. Eligible working parents can also access an additional 15 hours, totalling 30 hours per week.
What Are The Hours For Preschool?
At Jack & Jills, we offer half days from 8am-1pm or 1pm-6pm, and full day sessions between 8am-6pm. There is also an early bird option if you would like to drop your child off at 7.30am.
Why Choose Jack & Jill's Preschool?
Jack & Jill’s Preschool blends nurturing care with a thoughtfully structured early years curriculum, creating a space where every child can thrive. With added benefits such as our on-site Forest School, children enjoy a well-rounded start to education that inspires both development and confidence.