Early years at ELAN: Nursery and preschool provision

Attending nursery or preschool can be a hugely positive experience for children. It helps build confidence, independence, and social-emotional development. Children learn through play, adult modelling, observation, and guided learning—including direct teaching.

What’s the difference?

• Nursery is for children aged 2 to 3. It offers a relaxed, nurturing environment with high-quality childcare and opportunities to socialise with peers.

• Preschool is for children aged 3 to 5. It provides more structure and a curriculum designed to prepare children for formal education and starting primary school.

Why attend nursery and/or preschool?

• Social skills Playing and learning with peers helps children make friends, share, take turns, and listen to others.

• Communication Interacting with staff and other children expands vocabulary and helps children express their thoughts and emotions.

• Independence Children learn to form relationships and develop life skills—like putting on a coat or tidying up—supporting long-term wellbeing.

• School readiness Routine and structure ease the transition to school, especially when nursery and primary are on the same site. Familiar faces and surroundings help reduce anxiety.

• Starting their learning journey Early years settings build confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning—laying the foundation for success in school and beyond.

• For you Nursery and preschool offer families time for work or errands, and a chance to build relationships with staff and other parents on the same journey.

Where to find us

We offer:

• Nurseries at: Bournville, Locking, and Oldmixon

• Preschools at: Bournville, Locking, Oldmixon, and Windwhistle

Staff are employed by ELAN and benefit from the same high-quality training and professional development as school staff.

We also host:

• Independent nurseries at Windwhistle

• Independent preschools at Banwell, Mead Vale, Milton Park, and the Springboard Early Years Autism Hub at Mead Vale

Whether school-run or independent, each setting works closely with its school to support smooth transitions and strong relationships with families. All nurseries and preschools on our sites operate term-time only.

Spotlight on our settings

Bournville Nursery and Preschool

Focuses on personal, social and emotional development, communication and language, and physical development. Purpose-built spaces offer a safe, modern environment. Children benefit from a natural transition into reception.

Locking Meadows Preschool

Boasts a fantastic outdoor space that supports confidence, resilience, and collaboration. Children learn alongside reception pupils, easing the move into primary school. Indoor areas are bright, modern, and purpose-built.

Oldmixon Little Mixers Nursery and Preschool

Offers a gentle introduction to life at Oldmixon Primary. Children play and learn together, making the transition to formal education smoother for both children and families.

Windwhistle Preschool

Follows the curiosity approach in a newly improved, engaging environment. Daily routines are shaped around each child’s interests, creating a rich, stimulating space for learning, fun, and friendship.

Funding

Funding is available for some 2+ nursery and 3+ preschool places. You can find out more about who is eligible and how to apply by going to: https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/

How to apply

To apply for a nursery or preschool place you can contact them directly as follows: