At Ducklings Preschool, we believe that fostering a spirit of giving and empathy from an early age is crucial. Through our fundraising efforts for both local and national charities, we teach our preschoolers the value of helping others, nurturing a community-minded approach that they will carry with them throughout their lives. Children with Cancer UK £328 Mind UK £205 Children in Need £150 Crackerjacks £91 Our Fundraising At Ducklings Preschool, we believe that fostering a spirit of giving and empathy from an early age is crucial. Through our fundraising efforts for both local and national charities, we teach our preschoolers the value of helping others, nurturing a community-minded approach that they will carry with them throughout their lives. Find our most recent fundraisers below, or find out more information on our GoFundMe page at: https://www.gofundme.com/fundraisers ! We are currently fundraising for St Marks Meals; Hosting a 'Dressed for Dinner' party! St Marks Meals Learn More Here Ducklings Middleton is currently fundraising, along with other small businesses, for a small local charity, 'Always Oakley' who offer baby loss support. Together we've raised £1165! Always Oakley Learn More Here Ducklings Preschool has successfully raised £450 for Macmillan Cancer Support! Macmillan Cancer Support Learn More Here Ducklings Preschool has successfully raised £150 for Children in Need in 2026! Children In Need Learn More Here We're so proud to announce that Ducklings Preschool has raised £328 for Children with Cancer UK Children with Cancer UK Learn More Here We've donated to support HBUFC - a community club in South Africa that exists to give young people a place to belong, to be coached, to be fed and to get to their matches. Hout Bay United FC Learn More Here Ducklings Preschool has successfully raised £205 combined for both Mind Manchester and Mind Milton Keynes! Mind UK Learn More Here We've raised £91 for the children's trust Crackerjacks, focused on supporting children that are differently able! Crackerjacks Children's Trust Learn More Here We've raised a fantastic combined £122 for BBC Children in Need in 2025! Thank you so much for your donations! Children In Need Learn More Here

Ducklings Preschool and Nursery is a family-owned & run childcare, providing outstanding services in Milton Keynes and Manchester for 20 years'. Aged 0-5 Years welcome, 30 hours Government funded sessions - childcare tax free. Book a visit today easily online. Central Milton Keynes Oldbrook , Bow Brickhill , Emerson Valley , Monkston Park , Monkston St Barts , Monkston , Shenley Brook End , Tattenhoe Park , Westcroft , Furzton , Blackley Middleton Manchester Childcare preschool nursery Welcome to Ducklings Preschool and Nursery - MK Inspiring School Award Winner - Founded in 2000, Ducklings Preschool is extremely proud to operate across Milton Keynes and Manchester. We strive to create an outstanding, loving, caring atmosphere in a safe and friendly environment. If you're looking for a space at one of our settings, please call us at 07476 079904 or contact us here. Limited spaces are available, so contact us today! Book a visit here Our Locations Staff Resources Class Dojo Login Our Term Dates Our Pricing & Funding Guide Parent Resources Contact Us Here Free Learning at Home Hub What Our Parents Think I couldn't have chosen a better Preschool for our children. The staff are very warm and caring , there's plenty of play, creative activity and encouragement and my children have loved every minute Melissa Congratulations to Jhelisa for passing her level 2 in SEND! What Our Staff Think With Bekki's support I am learning on the job and this (SEND Level 3) course has given me confidence in my practice. Thank you John,Debbie,Bekki. When opportunities are provided internally it make you push yourself and achieve your goals . Thank you all. Shivani Request further information today! Do you wish to learn a little more about Ducklings? Fill in your details below, OR give us a call - we're here to help! Contact Form I agree to the terms & conditions Submit Your form was submitted correctly, Thank you. We'll be in touch shortly Ducklings Head Office General Enquiries 07476 079904 ducklingsmarketing@gmail.com Admissions Enquiries 07828 807290 ducklingspreschool@hotmail.com

Ducklings Preschool Walnut Tree, located inside Heronsbrook Meeting Place, 5 Wadesmill Lane, MK7 7ED. Registered for 2 years to 5 years, Monday to Friday. Preschool and Nursery 30 hour Government funded sessions 30 hour free childcare Quality Early Years Education in the Heart of Milton Keynes! Following the closure of Jumpstart Preschool, Ducklings is excited to bring 26 years of exceptional childcare to Heronsbrook Meeting Place, on Wadesmill Lane, MK7 7ED . From September 2026, we are a term-time preschool, offering spaces from the age of 18 months up to 5 years . We accept government-funded sessions. Operating hours from 8:45am - 2:45pm. Experienced & Caring Staff Funded Places Available Multiple Locations Over 26 Years of Excellence Funded 15 or 30 Hours Accepted Trusted Across Milton Keynes Register Your Interest Today! Term-time Hours High Quality Early Years Education Secure Your Child's Place Today! Limited Spaces for September 2026 Funded & Paid Sessions Available Been Proudly Operating in Milton Keynes since 2000 Get in touch First name* Last name Email* Phone Write a message Submit

Looking for ways to keep the children entertained during the summer holidays without spending a fortune? You're in luck! Milton Keynes is packed with free family-friendly events, outdoor adventures and community activities throughout Summer 2026. Whether you're looking for nature trails, festivals, creative workshops or active days out, there's something for children of all ages. At Ducklings Preschool, we know how important it is to keep little ones active, curious and having fun during the holidays. That's why we've put together our favourite free events and activities happening across Milton Keynes this summer. 1. Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme If your child is eligible for benefits-related Free School Meals, the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme is one of the best free opportunities available this summer. Running from 27 July to 20 August 2026, children aged 4–16 can enjoy a huge range of activities including: Sports Arts and crafts Science workshops Outdoor adventures Music sessions Dance Rock climbing Healthy meals included There are activities taking place at more than 50 locations across Milton Keynes, with SEND-friendly sessions also available. 👉 Find out more or book:https://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/children-young-people-and-families/holiday-activities-and-food-programme-2026 2. Centre:MK Summer Beach One of the biggest family favourites returns this summer. The Beach at centre:mk transforms the shopping centre into a giant indoor beach complete with real sand, beach games and children's entertainment. Even better, entry to the beach itself is completely free. Families can enjoy: Giant sandpit Free beach games Punch and Judy shows Face painting Family entertainment Some funfair rides are available for an additional charge, but it's easy to enjoy several hours of free fun. The Beach runs from 17 July to 31 August 2026. More information:https://www.centremk.com/whats-on/events/the-beach/ 3. Midsummer Festival If you're in Milton Keynes during the school holidays, don't miss the Midsummer Festival. Held in the city centre, this free community celebration features: Live entertainment Street performers Music Family activities Children's workshops Food stalls It's a fantastic opportunity for families to enjoy the city together without paying an entrance fee. See the latest programme:https://www.destinationmiltonkeynes.co.uk/whats-on/ 4. Howe Park Wood Summer Open Mornings If your children love nature, bugs and wildlife, Howe Park Wood is well worth a visit. Throughout the summer holidays, families can enjoy: Woodland trails Nature discovery Wildlife spotting Family-friendly activities Learning about local wildlife All activities are free, suitable for all ages and there's free parking available. If you can afford to attend, Howe Park Woods also hosts Tree Tots events, from £3 each, which is a fantastic event targetting for children up to 5 years old, and is a fantastic way to socialise and get outside in a safe space! For more information about Tree Tots click here: https://www.theparkstrust.com/events/tree-tots/ Find all upcoming dates:https://www.theparkstrust.com/events/summer-holiday-open-mornings/ 5. Explore Campbell Park You don't always need organised events to have an amazing day out. Campbell Park is one of Milton Keynes' most popular green spaces and is completely free to visit. Pack a picnic and enjoy: Huge open spaces Sculptures Walking trails Children's play areas Wildlife spotting Kite flying Family games It's perfect for toddlers, preschoolers and older children alike. 6. Discover Milton Keynes' Amazing Parks Milton Keynes has over 6,000 acres of parks and green space. Some of our favourites include: Ouse Valley Park Great Linford Manor Park Lodge Lake The Tree Cathedral Many include nature trails, picnic areas, wildlife, lakes and plenty of space for children to run, explore and burn off energy. 7. Visit MK Gallery's Family Activities MK Gallery regularly hosts family-friendly creative activities throughout the holidays. While some exhibitions require tickets, many family workshops, trails and community events are free or low cost. Check the latest programme before you visit, and look specifically at their upcoming family fun events, which can be found at: https://mkgallery.org/whats-on/?event-category=family-fun 8. Explore Milton Keynes' Free Arts & Heritage Attractions Milton Keynes City Council has created a fantastic guide to free and low-cost family activities including: Art trails Public sculptures Heritage sites Museums Local history Outdoor exhibitions It's an excellent resource if you're looking for inspiration throughout the holidays. View the guide:https://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/leisure-sport-and-community-activity/free-and-low-cost-arts-and-heritage-all-enjoy 9. Bright Ideas Kids Club at centre:mk Throughout the summer, centre:mk hosts free children's craft sessions. This year's programme includes activities such as: Rocket making Moonscape crafts Carnival masks Seasonal creative workshops Spaces can fill quickly, so booking ahead is recommended. 10. Explore the Redways by Bike or Scooter Milton Keynes is famous for its extensive Redways network, with over 200 miles of traffic-free routes. They're ideal for: Family bike rides Scooter adventures Nature walks Toddler balance bikes Wildlife spotting It's one of the easiest (and cheapest!) ways to spend an active day together. Tips for Enjoying Free Summer Events Before heading out, remember to: Pack plenty of water. Bring sun cream and hats. Take a picnic to save money. Check event websites before travelling in case of weather-related changes. Book ahead where required, as many free events have limited spaces. Why Summer Adventures Matter for Young Children Days out aren't just fun—they're also a fantastic opportunity for learning. Outdoor play helps children develop: Confidence Physical coordination Communication skills Curiosity Problem-solving Creativity Social skills The NHS recommends that children under five are physically active every day, making summer adventures a great way to support healthy development. Have a Wonderful Summer from Ducklings Preschool Whether you're building sandcastles, exploring woodland trails or enjoying a picnic in one of Milton Keynes' beautiful parks, we hope you and your family have a fantastic summer together. If your little one will soon be starting preschool, summer is also the perfect time to come and visit us. At Ducklings Preschool, we provide a warm, welcoming environment where children learn through play, make new friends and build the confidence they'll carry with them into school. If you're looking for a preschool in Milton Keynes, we'd love to meet you and your child. Book a visit today, explore our setting, meet our experienced team and discover why so many local families choose Ducklings Preschool to give their children the very best start in life.

Many mums imagine motherhood filled with playdates, coffee mornings and lifelong friendships. But for many, the reality can feel very different. If you're spending long days at home with a baby or toddler, you've recently moved to Milton Keynes, or your friends don't have children yet, it's completely normal to feel lonely. In fact, research suggests that loneliness during pregnancy and early parenthood is incredibly common, and having opportunities to connect with other parents can make a real difference to wellbeing. The good news is that you don't have to do it alone. Milton Keynes has a fantastic community of parent groups, fitness sessions, walks, coffee mornings and social clubs where mums can meet, chat and build genuine friendships. At Ducklings Preschool, we know that children thrive when their parents feel supported too. That's why we've put together this guide to some of the best places in Milton Keynes to find your village. Finding Your Village: The Best Groups for Lonely Mums in Milton Keynes (2026) You're Not the Only One First of all, if you've been feeling isolated lately, please know you're far from alone. Whether you're a first-time mum or juggling several children, it's easy to feel like everyone else has already found their friendship group. The truth is, many of the women you meet at these groups are there for exactly the same reason—they're hoping to make new friends too. Sometimes, all it takes is showing up once. 1. Milton Keynes Family Centres If you're not sure where to begin, Milton Keynes Family Centres are one of the best places to start. They run free sessions throughout the week, including: Stay and Play Baby groups Feeding support Parenting workshops Development sessions SEND support Family events The atmosphere is welcoming, relaxed and designed specifically to help families connect. Many lasting friendships begin at these sessions because everyone is at a similar stage of life. Find your nearest Family Centre: https://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/children-young-people-and-families/family-centres 2. The Mum Club Milton Keynes If walking into a room full of strangers sounds intimidating, The Mum Club was created with exactly that in mind. It's one of the UK's fastest-growing communities for mothers and hosts regular events, including: Coffee mornings Brunches Walks Wellness events Guest speakers Social evenings Seasonal celebrations Many women attend on their own, so you definitely won't be the only newcomer. Website: https://themumclub.com/ 3. Free Women's Cycling Groups If you enjoy cycling, Milton Keynes has several friendly women's cycling communities. These include: MK Breeze (women-only rides) Guided Get Cycling MK rides Broughton Cycling Group Ride and Shine MK community Get Around MK (Find upcoming sessions: https://getaroundmk.org.uk/events/free-womens-cycling-sessions-in-milton-keynes) Most welcome complete beginners and are just as much about meeting people as they are about cycling. 4. Baby Sensory Milton Keynes Baby Sensory classes are incredibly popular with new parents. While babies enjoy sensory activities, music and movement, parents often find themselves chatting before and after class—and many friendships start there. Classes are relaxed, welcoming and ideal during the first year of parenthood. https://www.babysensory.com/ 5. TinyTalk Baby Signing TinyTalk combines songs, baby signing and communication activities in a fun, friendly environment. Parents regularly return each week, making it easier to get to know familiar faces. It's also a lovely way to support your baby's communication development while meeting local families. https://www.tinytalk.co.uk/ 6. Baby College Milton Keynes Baby College offers developmental classes for babies and toddlers while creating opportunities for parents to meet. Activities include: Music Movement Physical development Sensory play Parent interaction Many parents continue meeting outside of classes after getting to know each other. https://www.babycollege.co.uk/ 7. Library Rhyme Times & Story Sessions Milton Keynes Libraries host free sessions throughout the week, including: Baby Rhyme Time Toddler Story Time Family events Holiday activities Libraries are one of the easiest places to begin socialising because there's no pressure to stay for a long time if you're feeling nervous. Find your local library: https://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/libraries 8. The Parks Trust Walks & Activities The Parks Trust runs regular events across Milton Keynes that are ideal for parents wanting to spend more time outdoors. You can join: Guided walks Nature events Family activities Health walks Community cycling rides Their free Health Rides are particularly welcoming for anyone wanting to get active while meeting new people. https://www.theparkstrust.com/events/ 9. Join a Buggy Walk Milton Keynes has almost 300km of traffic-free tarmacked redways and green corridors, making it wonderfully pram-friendly. Walking alongside other parents often feels much less intimidating than sitting in a formal group. Look out for: Buggy walks Parent walking clubs Nature walks Park meet-ups Fresh air, exercise and conversation can work wonders for your mood. 10. Community Action: MK If you're looking for almost any type of community group, Community Action: MK is an excellent place to start. Their directory includes: Women's groups Friendship groups Parent support Volunteering opportunities Community organisations Wellbeing activities Whether you're interested in crafts, fitness, volunteering or simply meeting people, it's worth exploring what's available near you. https://communityactionmk.org/ 11. Stay & Play Sessions Independent churches and community centres across Milton Keynes run welcoming Stay & Play sessions throughout the week. Most include: Toys Crafts Singing Refreshments Plenty of time for parents to chat They're often free or ask for only a small donation. 12. Volunteer in Your Community Volunteering is one of the quickest ways to meet people. Whether it's helping at a local charity shop, supporting community events or assisting at family activities, volunteering offers: Adult conversation New friendships Confidence A sense of purpose Many parents say volunteering helped them feel like "themselves" again. 13. Coffee Doesn't Have to Be Planned Here's something worth remembering: Not every friendship starts in an organised group. Many begin by simply chatting to another parent at: the park soft play swimming lessons the library preschool pick-up If someone seems friendly, don't be afraid to say hello. The chances are they're hoping someone else will too. 14. Keep Going Back One visit rarely creates a friendship. Most people need to see the same faces several times before conversations become natural. If your first visit feels awkward, don't assume the group isn't for you. Go back. The second visit usually feels easier. By the fourth or fifth, you might find yourself looking forward to it every week. Looking After Yourself Matters Too Motherhood asks so much of us. It's easy to focus entirely on our children's well-being while forgetting our own. Making time for yourself isn't selfish. Whether that's a coffee after Stay & Play, a walk with another mum or learning to ride a bike again, looking after your wellbeing benefits your whole family. If You're Finding Things Really Difficult Sometimes loneliness is part of something bigger. If you've been feeling persistently low, anxious or overwhelmed, please don't struggle in silence. Support is available through: Your GP Health Visitor NHS Talking Therapies PANDAS Foundation (support for perinatal mental health) Family Centres Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. Helpful Resources Milton Keynes Family Centres https://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/children-young-people-and-families/family-centres The Mum Club https://themumclub.com/ Free Women's Cycling Sessions https://getaroundmk.org.uk/events/free-womens-cycling-sessions-in-milton-keynes Get Around MK – Cycling Groups https://getaroundmk.org.uk/cycling/groups-and-rides The Parks Trust Events https://www.theparkstrust.com/events/ Community Action: MK https://communityactionmk.org/ Baby Sensory UK https://www.babysensory.com/ Baby College https://www.babycollege.co.uk/ TinyTalk Baby Signing https://www.tinytalk.co.uk/

Understanding childcare funding can feel overwhelming, especially with changing government schemes, different eligibility rules, and application deadlines. Many parents ask the same questions: Do I qualify for free childcare? What's the difference between 15 and 30 funded hours? When should I apply? Can I use the funding at a preschool? The good news is that financial support is available to help many families access high-quality early years education. In this guide, we'll explain how the 15 and 30 hours childcare funding schemes work, who is eligible, and how to make the most of your entitlement. What Is Childcare Funding? The UK Government provides funded childcare to help families with the cost of early education while giving children the opportunity to learn, play and develop important skills before starting school. Depending on your child's age and your family's circumstances, you may be entitled to: 15 funded hours per week 30 funded hours per week Funding for children from 9 months old (subject to eligibility) Additional support through Tax-Free Childcare and other schemes The exact funding available depends on your child's age, where you live within England, and whether you meet the eligibility criteria. Reference:https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/ Why Is Early Years Education Important? Childcare funding isn't just about reducing costs for families—it also helps children access high-quality early education during one of the most important stages of their development. Research from the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) shows that high-quality early years education can have a positive impact on children's language, communication, social skills and future learning outcomes. Reference:https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/education-evidence/early-years What Are the 15 Funded Hours? Many children in England are entitled to 15 hours of funded early education each week during term time. The funding is intended to support children's learning and development through play-based activities in approved childcare settings. Typically, this equates to: 15 hours per week 38 weeks each year A total of 570 funded hours annually Some providers also allow families to "stretch" these hours across more weeks of the year, meaning fewer funded hours each week but childcare available during school holidays. Ask your chosen preschool how they offer funded places. What Are the 30 Funded Hours? Eligible working families may receive 30 funded hours of childcare each week during term time. This effectively doubles the amount of funded childcare available, helping parents balance work and family life while ensuring children continue benefiting from high-quality early education. The funding usually covers: 30 hours per week 38 weeks each year Up to 1,140 funded hours annually Not every provider offers the funding in exactly the same way, so it's worth discussing how sessions are organised when you visit a preschool. Who Is Eligible? Eligibility depends on several factors, including: your child's age whether you live in England your employment circumstances your household income For many working families, both parents (or the sole parent in a single-parent household) usually need to earn at least the equivalent of the National Minimum Wage for a set number of hours each week, while remaining below the government's upper income limit. Eligibility rules occasionally change, so it's always best to check the latest guidance directly through the Government's Childcare Choices website. Reference:https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/ When Should I Apply? One of the most common mistakes parents make is waiting too long to apply. Funding codes must usually be obtained before the relevant application deadline to use funded childcare from the following term. The three main terms are: Autumn Term Starts in September Spring Term Starts in January Summer Term Starts after Easter Applying early gives you plenty of time to secure your preferred preschool and complete any necessary paperwork. Can I Use My Funding at Any Preschool? Funding can only be used with childcare providers approved to deliver funded early education. Many preschools, day nurseries and childminders participate in the scheme. When choosing a preschool, ask: Do you offer funded places? How do funded hours work? Are there any optional additional charges? Can I combine funded hours with extra sessions? Your provider will explain exactly how the funding is applied. Does "Free Childcare" Mean Everything Is Free? This is one of the biggest misunderstandings. Government funding covers the childcare element of your sessions, but some providers may charge for optional extras, such as: meals snacks trips special activities additional hours beyond your funded entitlement A good preschool will always explain any charges clearly before your child starts. Can I Combine Childcare Funding with Tax-Free Childcare? In many cases, yes. Some families are eligible to use both funded childcare hours and the Government's Tax-Free Childcare scheme to help cover additional childcare costs. Tax-Free Childcare allows eligible parents to receive government contributions towards childcare costs outside their funded hours. You can check your eligibility using the Government's online childcare calculator. Reference:https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/ What Happens If My Circumstances Change? Life changes, and the childcare system recognises that. If your employment or family circumstances change, you may need to reconfirm your eligibility at regular intervals. It's important to keep your funding details up to date to avoid interruptions. If you're unsure, speak to your childcare provider or check your Government childcare account. Can My Child Start Before They Receive Funding? Yes. Many families choose to begin preschool before their funded entitlement starts, paying privately until their child becomes eligible. This can help children settle into routines and friendships gradually. Does Attending Preschool Make a Difference? Research consistently shows that high-quality early years education supports children's development across many areas. Children attending preschool often have opportunities to develop: communication skills confidence friendships independence problem-solving creativity emotional resilience early literacy and numeracy The Government's Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework focuses on learning through play rather than formal classroom teaching, helping children develop the skills they'll use throughout school and beyond. Reference:https://www.gov.uk/early-years-foundation-stage Frequently Asked Questions Is the funding paid directly to parents? No. The funding is paid directly to approved childcare providers on behalf of eligible children. Can I use all my funded hours in two days? This depends on your preschool's opening hours and how they structure funded sessions. Many providers offer flexible options. At Ducklings, we allow you to use your funding to attend either full days, half days, or a mixture of both - it's just based on our availability and your preferences! Do I lose my funding if my child is ill? Your funded place is normally reserved, but attendance policies vary between providers. Can I split my funding between different childcare providers? In many cases, yes. You may be able to divide your funded hours between more than one approved provider. Speak to each provider to understand how this works. Does my child have to attend every week? Regular attendance is encouraged because consistency helps children build friendships, confidence and routines.