About Us

Our Pre-School was the brainchild of a group of Chagford parents in 1974, set up in the Primary School’s beautiful Big Oak meadow. In 2002, we created our present bright and airy space and our Opening Celebrations included parents who were once at Chagford Pre-School themselves! Since then we have continued to grow from strength to strength. In 2009 took under our wing the Parent/Toddler group, when we became the Big Oak with Little Acorns. Now in 2011, we have set up our wraparound service which includes breakfast club, afterschool club and holiday club, part funded by the Big Lottery fund and named “School’s Out at Chagford”.

The Big Oak Pre-school is situated in beautiful and secure surroundings within the Chagford Primary School site, with the most superb view overlooking the natural tree-lined amphitheatre towards Castle Drogo. We have the run of our own, large Pre-School garden, sheltered by a beautiful mature oak tree. Within the garden we have a climbing playhouse and slide; a pirate ship sand pit and large wooden play car along with lots of bikes; cars; scooters; bats; balls. We also have 4 raised beds for the children to plant and grow a variety of produce.

Indoors, our bright and airy learning environment has separate activity areas differentiated by soft, gentle colours reflecting the colours of our natural surroundings, to stimulate the children’s moods, senses and emotions. We also have a cosy corner for quiet reading and rest times for children staying all day. Sleep mats and blankets are provided.

We feel The Big Oak Pre-School is a wonderful environment for young children to learn and develop and hope that you as parents and carers can see how dedicated the staff are to your children’s education and desire to provide them with the best start on their journey of discovery.