Pre-School FAQs

Kimbolton Pre-School will open in January 2026.

Our Pre-School is based in our Prep School – in a bespoke space in our Lower Prep area.

Yes. Kimbolton Pre-School will open all year-round, providing consistency and flexibility for busy families. We also offer term time only spaces. We will have a short closure of a week per annum, advertised in advance, to enable essential works and maintenance can be carried out

As a selective school, all children will take part in a short “stay and play” session as part of the admissions process. This allows us to gently observe your child’s interactions, communication and readiness for the Pre-School environment, in a relaxed and age-appropriate setting.

While our approach is warm and informal, Kimbolton Pre-School is a selective setting, and we want to ensure that every child will thrive in our learning environment. This session also gives your child the opportunity to feel comfortable with us ahead of joining.

Your child must have turned the age of 3, in order to attend our Pre-School.

Standard core day: 08:30 – 15:30

Early drop-off options: 07:30 start available with breakfast included (depending on package)

Extended day options: until 17:00, or until 18:00 (latest collection)

Wraparound care is included in selected packages and available term time and year-round depending on the booking.

As an independent school, we have taken the decision not to offer the government funding schemes. This allows us to maintain the flexibility, staffing ratios and breadth of provision that underpin the high-quality, tailored experience we want to provide for every child in our care .

We completely understand that funding is an important consideration for many families, and we’re very happy to talk through what’s included in our fees and how we support children in these vital early years once we have more information to share about the curriculum we will be following.

We offer flexible attendance options to suit your family’s needs. Children may attend 3, 4 or 5 days per week, with a choice of core hours (08:30–15:30) or extended care up to 18:00. While many families start with 3 days and build up gradually, most children move to full-time attendance before Reception. We’ll work with you to find the right balance for your child — ensuring they feel happy, settled and ready to thrive.

You can view our packages on our fees page.

Children will enjoy a rich, age-appropriate programme that includes:

Early learning activities that support literacy, numeracy and personal development

Creative play

Swimming lessons in our on-site pool

Outdoor discovery through Forest School

Yes – and plenty of it! Our children will benefit from a beautiful rural setting with access to secure outdoor learning and play areas, including Forest School sessions that nurture curiosity, exploration and confidence.

The Pre-School will be overseen by Mrs Claire Petrie, Head of the Prep School at Kimbolton, and managed by a Pre-School Manager, ensuring it is fully integrated into our school community and values.

Our Pre-School will follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, enhanced by Kimbolton’s own emphasis on creativity, character, and continuity through the school years.

Please email admissions@kimboltonschool.com with your child’s name, date of birth, and the number of days you are considering from January 2026. Let us know which days you’d be interested in your child attending.