Giggleswick School to open new pre-school for two to four-year-olds

A new play-centred school opens in the Yorkshire Dales

A new pre-school for two to four-year-olds is opening at Giggleswick School in the Yorkshire Dales this spring. It is based in the refurbished Mill House, within Giggleswick Junior School’s campus.

The new school is led by qualified and experienced early-years teacher Carl Shuttleworth who with his team has planned an educational, play-centred curriculum. ‘I believe the sheer breadth of learning the pre-school can provide is unique in the local area. We will balance play and experiential learning which is key to the early years but with the challenge and academic ethos of Giggleswick School.

‘I believe the more time the children can spend outside the better, understanding their place in nature and how we affect our local environment, so we will be making the most of our wonderful location. There will be welly walks, forest school and swimming for three and four-year-olds.

‘We have access to the entire campus, including Giggleswick’s sports facilities, the Ghyll Field and the Chapel. PE, French, music and swimming will all be taught by specialist teachers from the school.’

Mr Shuttleworth, an early-years specialist with more than a decade of experience, has moved to Giggleswick from Manchester with his wife Gemma, who is also a primary school teacher, and their two-year-old son.

Mill House Pre-school will work alongside the Junior School. James Mundell, head of Giggleswick Junior School, added: ‘Over the next few months we will be creating a fresh and stimulating learning environment in Mill House. We’ll also be working closely with parents to develop the pre-school’s flexible arrangements for families. Like the rest of the school, the focus remains on providing a broad educational experience within a supportive and nurturing environment, giving the children the very best start both academically and socially.’

The Junior School is hosting an open afternoon on Friday, February 8th, when parents can find out more about the developments for Mill House. Go to the school’s website giggleswick.org.uk/Junior-School or call 01729 893000 for more information.