Balnamill Little Learners was established in 2024 by a dedicated support group for Balnamore Primary School, comprised of individuals from the local area who are passionate about early childhood education. Recognising the need for early years provision in our community, Balnamill Little Learners was born.
We are fortunate to utilise the facilities at Balnamore Primary School and aim for many of our pre-school children to transition smoothly into the primary school, continuing their educational journey with a familiar foundation.
Early years education is crucial for children's development. According to UNICEF, "Early childhood education is one of the best investments a country can make to promote human development, health, and economic productivity." Quality early childhood experiences have a profound impact on children's cognitive, social, and emotional development, setting the stage for lifelong learning and achievement.
Located in the heart of Balnamore, this is our initial year of operation. As part of our commitment to the community in our initial year, we offer fully funded pre-school places to all children attending Balnamill Little Learners. Our pre-school runs daily, Monday to Friday, from 9am to 12pm. We have a dedicated team of staff, along with committed committee members and volunteers who are passionate about providing the best start for our children.
In July 2024, we were officially registered with the Early Years Service. The Early Years Service registers, monitors, and inspects day care facilities for children under 12 years of age, including childminders, playgroups, day nurseries, crèches, and out-of-school provision.
We are also registered with the Early Years Organisation, the largest organisation in Northern Ireland working with and for young children. This affiliation underscores our commitment to providing high-quality early childhood education and care. Additionally, we adhere to the Northern Ireland Childminding Association (NICMA) minimum standards for Childminding & Day Care for Children Under Age 12, ensuring that we meet the highest standards of care and safety for our children.
We have recently applied to the Charity Commission NI to register as a charity, underscoring our commitment to serving the community and ensuring that every child has access to enriching experiences and opportunities.
At Balnamill Little Learners, our vision is to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child feels valued, inspired, and empowered to reach their full potential. We believe in creating a love for learning through play-based experiences that stimulate curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking skills.
Our Pre-School Values
Respect: We value and honour the dignity, beliefs, and opinions of every individual within our school community, promoting kindness, empathy, and consideration for others.
Resilience: We encourage resilience, perseverance, and a growth mindset, equipping pupils with the skills and mindset to overcome challenges, learn from setbacks, and adapt to change with confidence and determination.
Community: We value community spirit, inclusivity, and active participation, creating a sense of belonging, pride, and responsibility for the well-being and success of our school community.
Inclusion: We embrace diversity and promote a culture of belonging where every individual feels valued, respected, and supported. We celebrate differences, cultivate empathy, and strive to create an inclusive environment where all pupils, staff, and families are welcomed, accepted, and empowered to participate fully in school life.
Nurturing: We prioritise the social, emotional, and holistic development of every child, providing a nurturing and supportive environment where they feel safe, cared for, and encouraged to explore, learn, and grow.
Happiness: We believe that happiness is essential for well-being and success in learning. We cultivate a positive and joyful atmosphere where laughter, play, and enthusiasm are encouraged.
We are dedicated to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of our school community. We celebrate the uniqueness of each child and family, recognising that diversity enriches our learning environment and enhances our understanding of the world. We are committed to providing equal opportunities for all children regardless of their background, ethnicity, religion, ability, or socio-economic status. Our curriculum reflects diverse perspectives, cultures, and experiences, creating empathy, tolerance, and respect for others. Through our inclusive practices and partnerships with families and the wider community, we strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment where every child can thrive and succeed.
Balnamill Little Learners are dedicated to nurturing and educating young minds. By choosing our pre-school, you are investing in a supportive and stimulating environment where your child can thrive. With our strong foundation in early years education, adherence to high standards, and commitment to continuous improvement, we ensure that every child receives the best possible start to their educational journey.
