Pete Egerton

10:00am - 2:00pm

Email the studio

Whitney Houston

Love Will Save The Day

Listen Live Podcasts

Harrogate pre-school named as national award finalists

Tuesday, 30 September 2025 09:47

Highfield Pre-School has been named a finalist for the Independent Pre-Prep of the Year award.

Highfield Pre-School in Harrogate has earned national recognition after being named a finalist in the 2025 Independent School of the Year Awards.

Hundreds of schools from across the country submitted entries in all award categories, with Highfield Pre-School named a finalist for the Independent Pre-Prep of the Year award.

The school is set to be renamed Duchy College Pre-School from September 2026.

Pre-School Manager, Mrs Sam Pickard, said:

“To be recognised for a national award is a fantastic achievement, and testament to the entire Highfield Pre-School community.

“We have an incredible team of qualified Early Years professionals who are committed to providing each child with the very best Pre-School education, and this recognition is a wonderful celebration of their commitment and passion.”

Highfield Pre-School is situated in a large Victorian family house on the Harrogate Ladies’ College (Duchy College) campus.

Weekly activities include French, Music, PE, Swimming, Early Years Yoga and Forest School in the large private gardens.

Principal of Harrogate Ladies’ College (Duchy College), Mrs Joanna Fox, said:

“Our Pre-School team are paramount in developing a passion for learning and a love of life in the youngest members of our family of schools.

“As we look forward to becoming Duchy College Pre-School in September 2026, this recognition is a wonderful reflection of the strong foundations we have today and the exciting future ahead.

“We are delighted to celebrate this outstanding achievement with our entire community.”

The winner of the Independent Pre-Prep of the Year will be announced at an awards ceremony in London in October.

More from Local News

Ripon cricketers make history at national finals

Two young Ripon cricketers have made history as they joined their York teammates in national finals at Lord's.
Finished 12-foot poppy dress unveiled for Ripon remembrance concert

A stunning 12-foot poppy dress has been unveiled ahead of Ripon’s annual remembrance concert.
Harrogate woman to host endometriosis fundraiser

A Harrogate woman is set to host a special fundraising event at Rudding Park next year.
Mayor marks 'significant' new 20mph zone in Harrogate

The Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, David Skaith visited Harrogate to mark the region's 'most significant' new 20mph zone.
Harrogate barista to represent UK at world championships

A Harrogate barista has secured a place on the world stage after winning the UK’s top coffee competition.
New specialist school for autistic students to open in Bilton

A new specialist secondary school for autistic students is set to open in Harrogate after a multi-million-pound investment.
Musical based on David Walliams bestseller is coming to Harrogate

A musical based on a bestselling book by David Walliams is coming to Harrogate.
Harrogate wins another gold award at Yorkshire in Bloom

Harrogate BID has bagged yet another gold at this year's Yorkshire in Bloom awards.
Northern launches smart ticketing trial on Harrogate trains

Harrogate passengers on Northern trains are being invited to take part in a new trial of digital rail ticketing.
Yolk Farm named double business award winners

Yolk Farm in Minskip has achieved a double victory at the prestigious Harrogate Business Awards.
Harrogate man wanted by police on suspicion of burglary and assault

33-year-old Shaun Clarke from Harrogate is wanted by North Yorkshire Police.
England women rugby team’s win to help inspire healthier lives in Harrogate

The success of the England women’s rugby team in the World Cup final is being seen as an opportunity to promote health and wellbeing across North Yorkshire, including in Harrogate.
Free doorstep collection launched in Harrogate to save pre-loved items

Harrogate residents can now book free doorstep collection to give their unwanted items a new home, thanks to North Yorkshire County Council in partnership with Anglo Doorstep Collections.
Ripon MP opens new brewery association headquarters in Ripon

Julian Smith, Ripon MP attended the opening of SIBA headquarters last Wednesday.
New fashion and lifestyle store to open in Harrogate

West Park in Harrogate will see a brand new store open this October.
17 year old Harrogate teen named first ever British cyclist to win Junior Men’s Road Race

17 year old Harry Hudson from Harrogate has made history last week when he participated in the Junior Men's Road Race.
Knaresborough pub crowned 'Best Beer Pub' at awards ceremony

Blind Jack's on the Knaresborough Market Place won Best Beer Pub at the 2025 Great British Pub Awards.
Claims Knaresborough flooding report "downplayed" role of blocked gullies

A council report into flash flooding in Knaresborough last year downplayed the role blocked drainage gullies played in the incident, it has been claimed.
Huckerby's to bring pop-up Champagne tasting to The Stray

Huckerby's of Harrogate are hosting a pop-up wine tasting event from 2nd-4th October at the Cedar Court Hotel.
Sharow pupils enjoy visit from a class inspiration

A much-loved former footballer and broadcaster has visited Sharow Church of England Primary School where a class was named after him.