We hope this page gives you an insight into the rich experiences your child will enjoy during their time at Hartford Preschool. While we can share information about our provision, it is impossible to fully capture the warm, supportive and friendly atmosphere that is such an important part of early childhood education.
Our core aim is to ensure every child is happy, confident and able to reach their full potential within a caring, stimulating environment. Throughout your child’s time with us, we work in close partnership with families so that each child receives the support and high‑quality experiences they deserve.
Hartford Preschool is part of the Cam Academy Trust and provides education for children aged 3 and 4. We can accommodate up to 20 children per session, with sessions offered either in the morning or afternoon. Children attend Monday to Friday during term time. There is no maximum number of hours a child may attend, and sessions can be funded through the Government’s Nursery Education Funding (NEF) and/or paid for at £18 per three‑hour session*. To ensure continuity of provision, children must attend a minimum of three sessions (nine hours) per week.
Session options include:
- 5 morning sessions, 9.00am – 12.00pm (15 hours)
- 5 afternoon sessions, 12.00pm – 3.00pm (15 hours, packed lunch required)
- 5 extended sessions, 9.00am – 3.00pm (30 hours)
All Preschool places are government funded. Every child is entitled to 15 universal hours per week from the term after they turn three. At Hartford Preschool, this equates to either five morning or five afternoon sessions. Our main intake is each September. If your child is not yet eligible for funding, a charge of £18.00* per three‑hour session applies.
Some families may also be eligible for an additional 15 hours of extended government funding. Please check the relevant government website to confirm your eligibility. We currently offer a limited number of extended (30‑hour) places—15 in total—and these are allocated in line with our Admissions Policy*.
Although Hartford Preschool is part of the Cam Academy Trust, attending the Preschool does not guarantee a place in the Reception year at Hartford Infant School. Applications for the Infant School must be made separately, and children who attend the Preschool do not receive priority in the Infant School’s Admissions Policy. Attendance at the Preschool is not a requirement for applying to the Infant School.
*Please note that the number of extended provision places and session charges may change from September 2026.