A PRESCHOOL is celebrating the completion of its new room in Yate after receiving £35,000 in grants to allow more children to attend sessions.

Ridgewood Preschool, based in Ridgewood Community Centre at Station Road, has expanded from one to two rooms for the different age groups with enclosed play areas allowing children to play inside and outside during sessions.

The new room is called Little Owls, for children aged two to three-years-old and was opened in January to coincide with the existing Barn Owls room, for those aged three to four-years old.

Mireille Williams, chair of the Board of Trustees, said: “The idea first came to me April last year. I approached South Gloucestershire Council (SGC) to offer to open up a whole room dedicated to two to three-year olds and I figured both groups would benefit from the split and therefore provide play experiences that inspire and challenge children to explore and develop.

“Early October we decided to go ahead and opened on time January 19 - the project was a huge piece of work but all the staff could see how it would ultimately improve Ridgewood Preschool and the service we provide.

“The new room was fully supported by SGC with revenue and grants of £35,000 in total.

“We'd like the people of Yate and Chipping Sodbury to know that we are here and to pop in and take a look at all our facilities.

“We still want to reach out to other families that don't know about the Nursery Education Grant, a government scheme where every child receives 15hrs of free preschool education."

The preschool currently has 65 children on roll which is more than any other year.

Spaces are available now and in September and the preschool will be holding an open day on Saturday, June 20 from 10am to 12pm to encourage parents with visit with their children and see the new room.

For more information about the preschool visit www.ridgewoodpreschool.co.uk.