Welcome to Preschool
We would like to extend you a warm welcome to Houghton Conquest Primary School and Pre-school.
At Houghton Conquest the Pre-school and Robins Class form the Early Years Foundation Stage, the Pre-school being the first part of your child’s exciting journey into education and learning.
Children within the Pre-school are supported within mixed age and ability groups. Differing needs are met through careful adaptations, ensuring that all children are given the special attention they deserve. The progress of each child is constantly monitored through our online system, known as Tapestry.
Within our Pre-school the focus is to develop curious minds by encouraging children to learn through play. Play supports children to test and make sense of their world, to increase their communication skills, negotiate and express their inner selves. The EYFS staff will work tirelessly, to ensure that your child’s educational experience is positive, challenging, fun and exciting.
Houghton Conquest Preschool operates as an integrated early years setting within Houghton Conquest Primary School, located in the heart of Houghton Conquest village, Bedfordshire. Because it is integrated into the school setting, children benefit from a smooth transition into our Reception class.
Key Information & Operational Details
| Feature | Details |
| Age Range | 2 years to school age |
| Ofsted Rating | Good (Inspected as part of Houghton Conquest Lower School) |
| Location | High Street, Houghton Conquest, Bedford, MK45 3LL |
| Contact | 01234 740202 | hcpreschool@hcschool.org.uk |
Session Times & Structure
The preschool operates during term time with morning, afternoon, or full-day options:
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AM Session: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
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Lunch Club: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM (allows children to stay all day with a packed lunch or hot school meal)
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PM Session: 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Curriculum & Special Features
The setting follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, balancing free play with structured learning:
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Forest School: Regular summer outdoor learning sessions at forest school integrated into the timetable.
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Phonics & Early Literacy: Uses the Little Wandle phonics framework to support early reading and mark-making skills.
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Life Skills & Experiences: Includes balance bike practice, local community outings (road safety walks, church visits), and seasonal performances.
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Whole-School Integration: Children regularly participate in main school assemblies and events, building confidence for lower school entry.
Funding & Admissions
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Funding: Accepts 15-hour and 30-hour government funding codes for eligible 2-, 3-, and 4-year-olds, alongside childcare vouchers.
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Minimum Attendance: Children are required to attend a minimum of 2 sessions per week.
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Applications: Direct application forms can be submitted via email to the preschool or handed in to the main school office. Settling-in periods are flexible to support each child individually. Please send your applications to hcpreschool@hcschool.org.uk.
