04/08/2026
💜 An Important Announcement from St Anthony’s Pre-School/Playgroup 💜
It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share some incredibly sad news.
After 34 wonderful years serving our community, it is with profound sadness that this chapter of St Anthony’s Pre-School/Playgroup comes to an end.
Following the unexpected resignation of three members of staff during the final week before the summer holidays, we have spent weeks exploring every possible option to keep our doors open. We looked at every avenue available to us, but unfortunately, as a small charity-run pre-school that relies almost entirely on government funding, we have been unable to find a financially sustainable way to continue.
It is therefore with great sadness that St Anthony’s Pre-School/Playgroup will not be reopening in September.
This is not a decision that has been made lightly. It has been one of the most difficult decisions we have ever had to make, and one that has brought an overwhelming amount of heartbreak.
For me personally, this is more than the closure of a pre-school. I have had the privilege of being part of St Anthony’s for nearly 14 years, with almost 10 of those years as Manager. Leighanne has dedicated almost 9 years, and Marie nearly 8 years, to caring for and nurturing the wonderful children who have walked through our doors. Together, we have celebrated first friendships, first achievements and so many magical moments that we will carry with us forever.
To every child who has been part of St Anthony’s, thank you for filling our days with laughter, smiles and endless joy. To every parent and carer, thank you for placing your trust in us. It has been an honour to play such an important role in your children’s early years, and we will forever be grateful for your kindness, loyalty and support.
St Anthony’s has never just been a pre-school. It has been a place of love, learning, friendship and community, and we know this news will be deeply upsetting for so many families, as it is for us.
A full letter has been sent to all parents and carers with further information.
We kindly ask that everyone respects the privacy of our staff during this difficult time and avoids speculation. If you have any questions, please contact us directly and we will do our very best to help.
Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for allowing us to be part of your children’s journey. Although our doors are closing, the memories made within them will stay with us forever.
With love and gratitude,
Zara, Leighanne & Marie
On behalf of the Trustees and Staff at St Anthony’s Pre-School/Playgroup 💜
