Areté Learning Trust are pleased to announce the expansion to the age range of EYFS provision in two of our primary schools, Helmsley Community Primary School and Mill Hill Primary School, as well as brand new nursery provision at Broomfield Primary School in Northallerton.

September 2025 will see the launch of the initiative which welcomes children into nursery from the age of two, following a recent decision made by the DfE. Designated areas will be adjusted to suit the newly implemented age-range and a high-quality, creative curriculum with a focus on play-based, explorative learning will provide young learners with the best possible start to their journey through education.

Mill Hill Primary School

Mill Hill Primary School, on Crosby Road, Northallerton is a hard-working, high-achieving primary school with nursery places currently offered to children aged 3 upwards. The school’s existing nursery provision is delivered by Early Years practitioners who have the appropriate qualifications and work to the adult to child ratios required to meet the statutory requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

The nursery will be opening another classroom to accommodate the increased cohort, Headteacher Mrs Bainbridge said of the expansion: “We’re delighted to share that we are opening a second classroom in our nursery to provide for two-year olds from September 2025. 

This expansion allows us to provide for two, three and four-year olds in our fabulous Mill Hill Nursery. 

If you’re interested in securing a place for your child or would like more information, please get in touch with the school office: 01609 772382 or at millhill@arete.uk”

Helmsley Primary School

Helmsley Primary School has an established, popular pre-school located on Carlton Lane in the heart of Helmsley.

At Helmsley Pre School they believe that the children should be at the centre of their learning.

They build positive relationships with children and their families and work collaboratively with parents in order to nurture children’s confidence, ability and curiosity to learn.

In response to the decision to expand the pre-school provision, Headteacher Mrs Lamb said “We’re delighted to share that starting this September, our nursery will be welcoming 2-year olds into our provision for the very first time!

If you’re interested in securing a place for your child or would like more information, please get in touch with the school office: 01439 770783 or at helmsley@arete.uk”

Broomfield Primary School

Broomfield Primary School, Northallerton, are introducing preschool provision for the first time this September. Parents of children aged 2 upwards are encouraged to enquire about spaces at this community school with a shared vision to change the future, learn together and make a positive difference.

Broomfield Headteacher Mrs Sharp said “We heard from the Department for Education that we can lower our school age to take children from the age of 2 into our own preschool from September.

This is very exciting news and we are busy getting the preschool classroom set up.

If you are interested in a child starting with us, please contact the school office: 01609 774050 or at admin@broomfield-alt.uk”

As a Trust we remain committed to providing the highest standard of education and care to children of all ages, across all schools. The increased EYFS provision will provide pupils with a smooth pre-school to primary transition and the benefits that come with early enrolment into education as well as the capability and confidence that children can gain from consistent, supportive relationships throughout their early development.  

We are incredibly excited for this next step and are looking forward to welcoming new pupils and their families into our communities. For more information on the two-year-old provision or to register your child, visit our website: www.arete.uk/