Elisa Hilton

Noon - 4:00pm

Email the studio

George Michael

Fast Love

Listen Live

Willow Tree Primary secures £150,000 grant for new nursery

Wednesday, 25 March 2026 13:49

Willow Tree Primary School on Wetherby Road.

A Harrogate primary school has secured major funding to develop new teacher-led nursery provision as part of a new "Early Education Centre" for the town.

Willow Tree Community Primary School on Wetherby Road has secured £150,000 from the Government's "school-based nursery" programme.

The grant is being matched with investment from Northern Star Academies Trust to create an Early Education Centre with spaces for up to 37 babies and children from birth to nursery-age.

The Centre, which will provide an all-year-round service, is scheduled to open in September 2027.

Work to develop the Centre will begin this summer.

Willow Tree Headteacher, Robert Mold, said:

"We already provide excellent early years education at Willow Tree, with a strong network of early education practitioners across our multi academy Trust.

"Our curriculum develops children's communication skills and a love of books and reading, with time spent learning in nature and enrichment opportunities.

"We know there is high demand for school-based and teacher-led nursery provision that focuses on school readiness and is available all-year round.

"That's what our Early Education Centre will provide, offering parents a school-led option for their youngest children".

Northern Star Academies Trust, which includes Willow Tree Community Primary School, is a group of 15 primary and secondary schools across Harrogate, Skipton, Keighley and Bradford.

The Chief Executive of Northern Star Academies Trust, Jenn Plews, said:

"We know from research that children's development in their earliest years shapes their opportunities in future life.

“That's why we're investing in high quality early education, to improve life chances for our youngest children in Harrogate".

More from Local News

Winners revealed for Local Hero Awards 2026

The winners of the Your Harrogate and Harrogate Town Local Hero Awards 2026 have been revealed following a stunning awards ceremony at Rudding Park.
Free Fuel Friday: Another Harrogate resident wins full tank of fuel

A third Harrogate resident has won a full tank of fuel as part of our’Free Fuel Friday.’
Councillor Viv Poskitt officially elected as new Mayor of Harrogate

Councillor Viv Poskitt has officially been elected as the new Mayor of Harrogate for the 2026/27 civic year.
WATCH: Harrogate schools pay tribute to Sir David Attenborough on his 100th birthday

A number of pupils across the Harrogate area have paid tribute to Sir David Attenborough on his 100th birthday.
Harrogate teen shines at cheerleading world championships

A Harrogate teenager has helped her team achieve international success at one of the world's biggest cheerleading competitions in the United States.
Wickes plans to open new store on Ripon Road

DIY retailer Wickes has submitted plans to open a new store in Harrogate.
Which famous faces will be attending Your Harrogate's Local Hero Awards?

The Your Harrogate Local Hero Awards are set to return this evening for our biggest night of the year.
Finalists revealed for Knaresborough business awards

Finalists have been announced for the Knaresborough Business Awards 2026 ahead of a ceremony later this year.
Harrogate woman to walk 200km in memory of dad lost to brain tumour

A Harrogate woman is walking 200 kilometres this month to raise money for brain tumour research in memory of her father.
Study names Harrogate among fastest-growing locations in UK for Land Rovers

Harrogate has been identified as one of the UK’s top 10 fastest-growing locations for Land Rover interest, according to new audience data from Land Rover Monthly.
Big Harrogate Sleepout returns for third year to support local charities

The annual Big Harrogate Sleepout is set to return for a third year in support of two local charities.
Harrogate tech firm shortlisted for six national Tech Awards

Harrogate-based Phase 4 Computers has been shortlisted in six categories at the national Tech Awards 2026.
Harrogate MP calls for new powers to close 'cowboy' vape vendors

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon has called for new powers to close cowboy vendors and restrict illicit vape shops on the high street.
Harrogate law firm donates vital cancer equipment in memory of colleague

In memory of a late colleague, staff from Harrogate family law firm Jones Myers have donated vital equipment to help enhance the wellbeing and comfort of cancer patients.
Local Hero Awards 2026: Meet the finalists

The Your Harrogate Local Hero Awards return this week to shine a light on the selfless, dedicated and inspirational people across the Harrogate district.
Police appeal after man makes 'sexual gestures' in Ripon

Police are appealing for information in relation to a public order that occurred in Ripon city centre.
Yorkshire voters would reject MPs who back 'holiday tax', major poll shows

Over half (54%) of people in Yorkshire oppose the Government's proposed holiday tax, according to a major new poll.
Harrogate charity Horticap hits the road in new electric vehicle

Harrogate horticultural charity Horticap is going even greener after securing sponsorship for a new electric van from developer the Banks Group.
Harrogate IT provider wins prestigious King's Award for Enterprise

Harrogate-based IT provider Techbuyer has been recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development.
Funding secured for new men's mental health programme in Harrogate district

A new partnership programme designed to support men's mental health across Harrogate district has secured funding from David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire.