Pippins Preschool joins Anglian Learning

Pippins Preschool, based in Sawston, officially joined Anglian Learning, a multi-academy trust based in East Anglia, on 1 September.

The preschool, which provides term-time Early Years education for children aged 2 years and 6 months up to 5 years old, is located on the same site as The Icknield Primary School, also part of Anglian Learning. The schools will join together, providing a seamless educational journey for children up to 11 years old.

Following an Extraordinary General Meeting earlier in the year, current parents, carers and other stakeholders voted in agreement to join the Trust.

Sandra Matthews, Preschool Manager and SENCO of Pippins Preschool, said, “We are so pleased to be joining an organisation that supports our visions and values for our young learners. Given our close proximity to The Icknield Primary School, there is a benefit in creating a streamlined learning experience for our children to aid their transition to the primary school.

“The Trust’s strong focus on inclusion and creating a sense of belonging for all pupils echoes our commitment to responding and meeting our children’s needs”.

Ruth Gladstone, Preschool Manager and Lead for Learning at Pippins Preschool, said, “In our 20-year history, we feel we have built a strong relationship with The Icknield Primary School and its community. We look forward to continuing this partnership and providing an enriching experience for our children.

“Our highly trained and dedicated colleagues look forward to the new learning and development opportunities and well-being support offered by The Icknield Primary School and Anglian Learning”.

Rachael Johnston, Director of Primary Education at Anglian Learning, said, “We are always seeking opportunities to enhance our pupils’ education experience. Not only will we support Pippins Preschool with our central shared services, but given their years of expertise and community backing, we see this as a collaborative opportunity to share best practice and enhance Early Years education elsewhere across our Trust.”

“The Icknield Primary School is equally as excited, as this allows Pippins Preschool to further integrate with the school, and reassure parents and carers that a smooth handover can take place for their child’s all-important move to primary school”.

The preschool benefits from several engaging facilities for children, including two playrooms, weekly forest school and music sessions, two secure outdoor play areas, a sensory area and an open-air theatre. They accept Early Years Universal Funding, 2-year-old funding, tax-free childcare and childcare vouchers.