A much-loved Ilkley pre-school that has supported local families for over 60 years will be forced to close its doors at the end of April 2026 unless it raises £30,000 in emergency funding.
Ilkley Pre-School Playgroup, which has served the community since at least 1968, is facing a critical shortfall after being forced to leave its previous home of more than six decades. During the period of uncertainty over its relocation, the setting was unable to promote itself to new families, resulting in a significant drop in enrolment and income.
Today, the pre-school serves fewer children than it did previously. While the quality of care remains unchanged, with an Ofsted rating of “Good” and a team bringing over 100 years of combined experience, reduced numbers have left the charity-run setting financially vulnerable.
If £30,000 is not raised by the end of April 2026, the pre-school will sadly close its doors.
The emergency funding will cover essential costs including staff wages, rent and utilities, securing the setting through the remainder of the academic year and giving it vital time to rebuild numbers.
Manager Tracey Fearnley said:
“We are heartbroken to even be in this position. Ilkley Pre-School has been part of this community for generations. We’ve supported thousands of children to become confident, independent and ready for school. Now we need the community’s support to help us continue.”
Parents say they value the “family feel” and the highly experienced staff team most. Local schools report that children leaving the setting are independent, socially confident and ready to learn.
Closure would mean:
• Children are forced to move settings mid-year
• Added stress and disruption for working families
• Experienced staff losing their jobs
• The loss of a trusted early years provision rooted in Ilkley for over six decades
The pre-school also supports children with additional needs, including speech delay, making continuity of care particularly important.
A crowdfunding campaign has now launched, with donations of all sizes welcomed.
Tracey added:
“This is a bridge. We truly believe this is a one-off crisis caused by relocation and reduced visibility. With the community behind us, we can rebuild and thrive again.”
Donations can be made at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/save-ilkley-preschool-playgroup-from-closure
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