Downside Pre-School
Downside Pre-School (Charity number: 1191830) is a registered charity operating an early childhood education provider in Dunstable, Bedfordshire, England. Established as a charitable incorporated organisation (CIO), it focuses on delivering inclusive, play-based learning in a safe environment while adhering to principles of equality and child-centered development.

Mission and ethos

The organisation emphasises fostering an inclusive, discrimination-free environment where children learn through self-directed play. Its mission states that children have "a right to develop and learn" in settings prioritising their individual needs, rights, and responsibilities. Trustees and staff aim to support families by maintaining flexible, affordable childcare services.

Operations

The pre-school operates on weekdays during standard school hours, serving children predominantly through play-based curricula. It emphasises staff expertise in early-years education and maintains a trustee-led governance model. Trustees oversee strategic direction, fundraising, and compliance, while day-to-day management remains under experienced practitioners.

Governance

As a CIO, Downside Pre-School relies on volunteer trustees to ensure legal and operational continuity. Trustees collaboratively manage governance, including financial oversight and policy development, with a focus on community engagement. Recent recruitment efforts highlight the charity’s need for trustees to sustain its educational mission amid leadership transitions.

Community impact

The organisation actively seeks to support local families through accessible early education, emphasising inclusivity and responsiveness to individual learning requirements. Its charitable status enables fundraising initiatives to maintain service quality and affordability.

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1094631&subid=0 [2] https://downsidepreschool.com [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5169562 [4] https://downsidepreschool.com/become-a-trustee/ [5] https://www.downside.co.uk/supporting-us/