Beaminster Preschool
At Beaminster Pre‑School, the outdoors isn’t an occasional extra — it’s where our children spend most of their day. Rain or shine, our little explorers are out in the fresh air, discovering, investigating, and learning through real experiences in nature. Because of this, wet‑weather clothing and wellies are essential, and children quickly become confident in putting them on and heading outside whatever the weather.
We embrace messy, hands‑on play, and that means children are unlikely to go home in the same clothes they arrived in. We do not use aprons or bibs, as we believe freedom to explore without restriction is a key part of learning. Paint, mud, water, grass stains — they’re all part of a rich day of discovery.
For this reason, children attending our setting need multiple changes of clothes each day. Having plenty of spare clothing ensures they can stay comfortable, dry, and ready for more adventures outdoors.
Our Story
Beaminster Pre‑School is a welcoming, independent setting nestled in the heart of Beaminster, West Dorset. Located within the grounds of Beaminster St Mary’s Academy, we enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding countryside — the perfect backdrop for children to learn, play, and grow.
Our story began in 1969, when we first opened our doors to the local community. Since then, we’ve continued to evolve while staying true to our mission: providing a safe, happy, and nurturing environment where every child can thrive under the guidance of our dedicated and long‑standing team. We are proud to have been rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in our most recent inspection (2024).
Inside, our bright and engaging classroom offers space for creativity and discovery.
Outside, children enjoy substantial, secure play areas and a large nature zone within the Preschool grounds — a place where curiosity and imagination flourish.
We also love exploring our local community, making regular visits to the town’s shops, library, church, and play area.
We provide term‑time care for children aged 2 to 4 years, supporting each child’s unique journey through play‑based, child‑led learning.
Our team works closely with families and professionals to ensure every child receives the care, encouragement, and support they need to reach their full potential.
At Beaminster Pre‑School, we celebrate inclusivity and welcome all children and families.
Together, we nurture confident, independent learners who are ready to take their next steps with curiosity, joy, and a love for learning.
Our Prices
2 Year Olds
3 & 4 Year Olds
Hourly Rate
£9.50 per hour
£8.00 per hour
3 & 4 Year Olds
2 Year Olds
Lunch Club
£4.50 per session
Breakfast Club
£5.00 per session
Food Consumables
£1.25 per week
Non-food Consumables
£1.25 per week
Forestry School Consumables
£1.25 per week
Government‑funded hours will continue to be free of charge unless your child attends Breakfast Club and/or Lunch Club.
The three weekly consumable fees listed above apply to all children, including those attending solely through funded hours. These charges cover essential items used throughout the preschool by every child and are therefore non‑negotiable.
We also offer a Breakfast Club for all children attending preschool on that day. This session will run from 08:30am to 09:00am, Monday to Friday during term time, and will be staffed by our preschool team. Breakfast Club must be booked in advance to ensure appropriate staffing and supplies.
For further details or to arrange bookings, please speak to Mandy, the Preschool Manager.
The Preschool Team
At Beaminster Pre‑School, we are incredibly proud of our dedicated and long‑standing staff team. Each member brings a wealth of experience, compassion, and enthusiasm to our setting, creating a safe, nurturing environment where children feel valued and supported every day. Our team works closely with families to build strong, trusting relationships, ensuring every child receives the individual care, encouragement, and guidance they need to thrive. Below, you can meet the wonderful people who make our pre‑school such a special place.
Mandy Broster
Preschool Manager
Gemma Newton
Deputy Manager
Alice Ward
Preschool Assistant
Gemma England
Preschool Assistant
Mel White
Preschool Assistant
Our Committee
Daniel White
Chair Person
Beaminster Preschool Charity Ltd. is overseen by a committed team of volunteer trustees who work together to ensure the smooth and successful running of the pre‑school. The committee meets roughly once a term to make key decisions about the organisation, including governance, finance, staffing, and the long‑term direction of the setting.
As a charity, our committee must include a number of parents in order to operate. Their involvement ensures that families have a strong voice in how the pre‑school is run. Alongside our parent trustees, we are also supported by valued members of the local community who generously give their time, skills, and experience to help us continue providing high‑quality early education.
Our trustees play an essential role in the life of Beaminster Pre‑School, and their dedication helps us maintain a warm, nurturing, and well‑managed environment for every child who joins us.
Laura Lovelace
Vice Chair Person
Paul Hughes
Treasurer
Geraldine White
Secretary