Petition launched in bid to keep town preschool open
A PETITION has been launched following the announcement that a Leicestershire preschool is to close this academic year.
Welland Park Academy Preschool, located at the site of Welland Park Academy in Market Harborough, announced the closure in a letter to parents sent out on March 22.
In the letter, parents were informed that the early years provision staff would be working with Leicestershire County Council to look for alternative placements for the children.
The school said the decision had not been taken lightly.
The petition, titled Stop the closure of Welland Park Community Preschool, was initiated by Alex Beeson, who has a grandchild at the preschool.
It states that the preschool has been serving the community for at least 20 years and had worked closely with and enabled minority groups to access the service.
The petition currently has more than 250 signatures.
COST OF LIVING CRISIS HAS LED TO DECISION TO CALL IT A DAY
It holds a special place in many hearts. Please help us try to save our beloved preschool
One petitioner
One person who signed the petition wrote: “My daughter attends a specialist school now and the reason we were lucky enough to get a place at her school was down to the incredible staff at Welland Park Preschool supporting her, and me, in that journey.
am shocked and heartbroken that this is happening.”
Another said: “It is the most amazing place in the area, nothing compares. It’s a full setting and has the most dedicated and nurturing team of staff who pour their hearts and souls into these young children. It is a very much loved setting and holds a special place in many hearts.
“Please help us try to save our beloved preschool.”
The original letter was signed by the principal of the school, Pete Leatherhead, who wrote: “As I am sure you are aware, we are experi“I encing a cost of living crisis. Many of you will be facing difficult financial decisions of your own, with rising energy bills and food prices.
“I regret to inform you the preschool’s budget is also affected by these economic circumstances, and our funding has not been increased to cover the additional expense.
“As a consequence, it is with a heavy heart I write to inform you as from July 2024 the Welland Park Preschool will close.”
To view the petition, visit and search for “stop the closure of Welland Park Preschool” at: