A school in Westhoughton is closing their nursery and pre-school following low demand for places.

Washacre Primary School will be closing the facility at the end of this academic year.

The nursery opened in 2014 after an investment of £40,000.

Washacre Primary School in Westhoughton opens nursery

Leaders said the new facility will help support families and their children to develop skills that will give them a headstart when they move to primary school.

Headteacher Chris Howarth spoke regarding the nursery and pre-school closure.

He said: “Like many early year’s providers, we have seen a significant reduction in the demand for places over the last two years.

“Unfortunately, this means the preschool and nursery is no longer financially viable and we have taken the difficult to decision for it to close at the end of this academic year.”

He added: “Parents and staff were informed in March and families have been supported to find alternative provision in the local area.”

The Bolton News: The school recently transformed their forest area into an "impressive educational resource"The school recently transformed their forest area into an "impressive educational resource"

However, local people will be feeling the loss of the nursery and pre-school.

One person told The Bolton News: “Sadly the EYFS unit will be closing at the end of the academic year. Many parents, children and staff are truly devastated at this recent news. Such a huge loss to our local community.

“In comparison to other nurseries around Westhoughon, the Washacre outdoor provision is absolutely amazing.”

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In Ofsted’s most recent report in January 2020, the early years foundation stage was rated good.

The Bolton News: A source said the outdoor provision is "absolutely amazing"A source said the outdoor provision is "absolutely amazing"

Inspectors said: "Children in the early years enjoy their learning. They achieve well.

"The curriculum is well planned around the needs of the children.

"They are eager to explore, learn new knowledge and investigate how things work.

"Children enjoyed investigating which boats floated the best. They did this well because previous learning helped them to know which materials to test. The provision for two-year-olds is nurturing and effective.

"Adults listen and encourage children to follow their own interests.

"They have the opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills across almost all areas of learning."