The King's School in Macclesfield Pre-School Review

Exploration and growing independence give King's youngest provision its character. Pre-School takes children from age three and belongs to the Infant & Junior division at the Prestbury campus. This is the school's own early years provision, with a place within a larger school rather than a separate nursery identity.

The ISI inspection of 21 to 23 January 2025 found that early years staff provided effective educational and pastoral support. For parents, the relevant strength is the combination: children's learning and emotional development receive attention together.

Trying things out is central to the early years curriculum. In January 2025, children had opportunities to investigate, make things and attempt unfamiliar activities, helping them become more independent and make good progress. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provides the framework for this provision. In everyday terms, the emphasis here includes learning to communicate, interact with other children and approach new experiences confidently.

Staff guide children's conversations and interactions, giving social learning a deliberate structure. That matters for a three-year-old learning how to join in with peers. Activities and trips also extend learning beyond classroom work, with early years children included in these opportunities.

The Infant & Junior division occupies purpose-designed accommodation within the main academic building. Its facilities include a library, a hall and separate rooms for computing, science, music and art. These are divisional facilities, rather than a list of nursery rooms. Outdoors, the campus includes orchards, a stream and a wildlife sanctuary, giving the wider setting a substantial connection with nature.

Predictable routines are a practical strength. In January 2025, clear expectations and positive relationships helped early years children grow in confidence and manage more for themselves. Recognition schemes included writer of the week alongside VIP for the day, helping children feel that they belong.

Experienced staff support early years leaders, and the provision met the applicable early years requirements at that inspection. For a parent choosing a first educational setting, that provides a dated assessment of both learning and care. Staff also support children in developing communication with one another, helping them build the social confidence needed to participate in group life.

Reception admission. Attending Pre-School does not guarantee a Reception place. Contact King's Admissions Department about the procedure for moving from Pre-School to Reception.

Reception entry is from age four. Infant entry assessments take place in January ahead of September admission; entry during the year depends on vacancies. Places outside Pre-School depend on both availability and assessment outcomes. Familiarity with the school must therefore be kept separate from entitlement to a place.

Early Years Funding is accepted for Pre-School, with the fee structure allowing for a maximum of 15 funded hours through the Sure Start scheme. This is a contribution within the school's charging model. Contact the Finance Department for current charges. Fees can be paid ahead of each term or through nine monthly direct debit instalments, with no collections in December, July or August; withdrawal requires a term's notice.

The Infant & Junior division has a separate entrance and its own car park. For enquiries, contact the Admissions team on 01625 260000 or admissions@kingsmac.co.uk. Midweek tours can accommodate small groups of families, with individual family tours offered on request.