PA Housing, along with its delivery partner The Hill Group, has worked in collaboration to relocate Thamesview Preschool whilst construction works begin at Thames View House, in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey.
The outdated Thames View House site is currently being demolished to make way for 97 new homes, 45 of which will be available for social rent and the remaining 52 homes available for shared ownership. The preschool has resided in Thames View House since October 2016, becoming the only Ofsted outstanding early education provider in the local and surrounding areas. In addition to offering places to those receiving Funded Early Education for two-year-olds (FEET), the preschool has made a commitment to not charge additional fees for childcare, making them a wholly free service for the community.
Recognising its importance in the community, PA Housing has worked closely with the preschool managers to provide an alternative purpose-built facility located a short distance from the original site on Manor Road. The temporary preschool has been carefully planned, ensuring it meets not only the needs of the children, but upholds all the relevant outstanding Ofsted requirements.
Samantha Ireland, Manager of Thamesview Preschool said: “In the old Thames View House, because of the building’s exterior we were often faced with negative pre-determined views or felt completely overlooked.
“The prospect of moving the preschool caused some initial concern to some parents, however, the community team have been fantastic, making sure our questions are heard and answered, but also ensuring the new preschool is just as outstanding and continues to meet our needs.
“We’re so proud to be an excellent rated childcare provider and are grateful to PA and Hill for creating a space for us, where we can continue our work.”
Chris Whelan, Executive Director of Development and Sales at PA Housing said: “The preschool is not only at the centre of the Thames View House development but the surrounding community as well.
“It provides accessible childcare to many of our residents and when considering the redevelopment of the area considerations for moving the preschool was a top priority.
“We’re delighted to have been able to provide the preschool with a new temporary facility and hope the team can continue its fantastic work until a permanent space for the preschool is found.”
Harvey Dhami, Deputy Regional Director at The Hill Group comments: “It has been a pleasure to be able to support the relocation of Thamesview Preschool, alongside our partners at PA Housing. We understand how difficult change can be for young children and we hope that the temporary premises will continue to provide the outstanding care to the children, whilst we are helping to deliver the new facilities within Thames View House.”
Ahead of works starting, PA and Hill have carried out a number of activities with the preschool and supported the preschool’s move.
