A PRESCHOOL near Colchester which has been open for more than a decade has made the “sad” and “difficult decision” to close because it is “no longer viable” to remain open.

Little Avenues Preschool, in Broom Grove, Wivenhoe, will shut its doors later this year, bosses have confirmed social media.

According to a letter sent to parents and carers, the school will continue to provide "high-quality care and learning" to children until the end of the summer term.

They also reassured parents and carers children moving on to school in September 2024, will continue to receive support for their transition to school.

Additional support will also be given to youngsters staying in early years as they transition to new settings.

The statement reads: “It is with great sadness we are announcing the closure of Little Avenues Preschool at the end of the summer term 2024.

“This has been a difficult decision to make but as a Community Interest Company proud of providing high-quality childcare accessible to all, we have found the past few years financially very challenging, sadly it is no longer viable for our small preschool to continue.

“We will provide our high-quality care and learning until the end of the summer term as well as having a fun-filled rest of the school year.

“Our final day will be Friday, July 19, 2024.”

Gazette: Closing - the nursery's last day will be in JulyClosing - the nursery's last day will be in July (Image: Stock Image)

The decision to close down comes after Little Avenues Preschool received a good rating in its most recent inspection from Ofsted last year.

At the time, Ofsted noted Little Avenues employed 13 staff and looked after 41 children.

It has boasted an unblemished record since it registered as a childcare provider in 2012.

Preschool bosses added: “It has been a privilege to be part of the lives of all the children who have attended Little Avenues and it’s exciting to see them grow and know we were part of their journey.

“It has been a pleasure to work with and support so many families, as well as be part of the Wivenhoe community.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all staff past and present who have worked incredibly hard to make Little Avenues a special place to work and play.

“We also thank our families for their support and understanding over the years.”