Welcome
From Leigh Smith, Acacia’s Manager
Hello and a very warm welcome to Acacia Preschool in New Malden, where we believe that the best way to develop a child’s social, emotional and physical skills is through positive play. At Acacia, we strive to keep children safe and happy in their learning environment. We provide a wide range of learning experiences, both indoors and outdoors, where children can be engaged, enthusiastic and curious about their surroundings. We want children to grow and develop into confident, resilient, and independent young learners, ready for their next stage in education.
Our story
Acacia Playgroup began its life in 1955, originally based in Acacia Grove, New Malden. It later relocated to a large hall in a cricket pavilion in Cambridge Avenue where we are now, just a 5 minute walk from New Malden train station and the high street.
The hall backs directly onto the fenced cricket ground and has a covered patio area for play. In 2014 our name was changed to Acacia Preschool to more accurately reflect our preschool status and in 2020 we became a registered charity.
We are OFSTED registered, a member of the Early Years Alliance, and follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum.
Parent says:
“Acacia is the most amazing place. The staff are wonderful and they offer fantastic activities and lots of room for the children to explore, play and learn. Best place ever!”
“Kind hands. Kind feet. Kind words.”
At Acacia, your children will be cared for by our dedicated team of staff. They will have the opportunity to learn in a unique setting that boasts a large indoor hall and an abundance of outdoor green space. Our friendly, qualified staff have been with Acacia for many years and have helped create a family ethos where children are encouraged to respect, participate and share with others. Acacia’s Golden Rules are “Kind hands. Kind feet. Kind words.”
We offer
Daily, sessional 9am-12pm or 9am-3pm
Term-time care for children aged 2 to 4 years 10 months
Monday-Friday, 38 weeks per year.
Minimum 3 morning sessions per week
An early bird service is also available, starting each day at 8:30am.
Up to 45 children per day
9 members of staff
Universal 15 hours of childcare per week (for morning sessions only).
Working entitlement of 15 hours of childcare per week (for morning sessions only) for eligible 2 year olds. See Childcare Choices
Working entitlement of 30 hours per week (9am-3pm). Accepted the term after the child’s 3rd birthday. See Childcare Choices
Families receiving additional forms of Government support may be able to access 15 hours of childcare per week for eligible 2 year olds. See FRAS
Childcare vouchers and payment via the Government’s Tax Free Childcare Scheme.