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2025-01-31-accounts

Trustees’ Annual Report for the period

From 01/02/2024 Period start date To 31/01/2025 Period end date

Charity name: Elmtree Preschool

Charity registration number: 1200160

Objectives and Activities

SORP reference
Summary of the purposes of
the charity as set out in its
governing document		 Para 1.17 The primary aim of Elmtree Preschool is to
enhance the development and education of
children, primarily those under statutory
school age, by supporting parents in
understanding and meeting their children's
needs through community-based groups.
Specifically, our objectives include:
1. Providing Comprehensive Services:
o
Offering appropriate play,
education, and care facilities
tailored to the developmental
needs of young children.
o
Facilitating family learning
and extended hours groups
that cater to the diverse
schedules of families.
2. Parental Involvement:
o
Ensuring parents have the
opportunity to take
responsibility for and actively
participate in the activities of
the preschool.
o
Encouraging parental
involvement in all aspects of
the preschool's operations,
recognising the crucial role
families play in early
childhood development.
3. Inclusivity and Equal Opportunity:
o
Guaranteeing that all groups
and activities are inclusive,
offering equal opportunities
for all children regardless of
race, culture, religion,
socioeconomic status, or
ability.
4. Advocacy and Awareness:
o
Promoting the study of the
needs of young children and
their families within the
community.
o
Raising public interest in and
recognition of these needs,
advocating for greater support
and resources within the local
area.
5. Adherence to Educational Standards:
o
Committing to the Statutory
Framework for the Early
Years Foundation Stage,
ensuring that all educational
practices meet or exceed the
required standards for early
childhood education.
Summary of the main
activities in relation to those
purposes for the public
benefit, in particular, the
activities, projects or services
identified in the accounts.		 Para 1.17 and
1.19		 Now in our second year of running Elmtree
Preschool, our focus has been on growth
and employing a team of Early Years
Practitioners to support us to continue to
provide an inclusive, enabling preschool
environment, supporting the care and
education of children aged 2-5 years.
Affordable and Inclusive Services
We are registered with Bristol Council to
offer government-funded childcare hours,
including being an approved setting to offer
‘disadvantaged 2-year-old’ places. We have
ensured that our rates remain very
affordable, inclusive of healthy snacks for all
children, as well as free trips and enriching
experiences. Our preschool adheres to the
Early Years Foundation Stage and Birth to 5
Matters frameworks, providing high-quality
education and care. Additionally, we have
been able to offer free sessions to families in
need outside of the standard funding
entitlement, and have helped fund or source
equipment and resources that benefit
children and their families at home,
particularly those with special educational
needs.
Community Engagement and Parental
Involvement
We are proud to be a multicultural and
inclusive preschool. Throughout our first
year, we kept salary outgoings to a
minimum, thanks to our managers
volunteering their time. This year we have
been able to employ a small team, which
has significantly improved what we can offer
as a preschool, including high staff to child
ratios and higher quality of day-to-day
provision. We have a level 3 apprentice, who
is mentored by one of our co-manager’s, and
we aim to continue to support our team’s
professional development. We have also
had children from local secondary schools
and collages completing their work
experience with us, which has been a great
opportunity for them to observe first-hand
the importance of early years education-
where it all begins. Our families have played
an active role in our preschool community,
for example, coming in to read stories or
supporting us with craft projects. We have
held regular events such as stay and play
sessions, parents' days, and family parties.
We also invite parents to share their skills,
occupations, or hobbies with the children.
We have provided valuable support and
advice to families by building trusting and
supportive relationships with them.
Additionally, we have established positive
working relationships with relevant external
agencies, which has enabled us to access
essential information and resources. These
resources are used within the preschool and
are also available to families through
referrals.
Building Local Connections
As mentioned above, we have established
positive links with relevant external
agencies, and with the local primary schools,
after-school clubs, and other preschools and
nurseries in the area, and have also linked
up with secondary schools and colleges, to
offer work placements for students. These
connections have been instrumental in
creating a supportive network for our
children and their families.
Conclusion
Overall, it has been a great second year for
Elmtree Preschool. We are now successfully
building on the foundations and providing a
nurturing, inclusive, and community-focused
preschool that aligns with our charitable
objectives and meets the needs of the
families we serve.
Statement confirming
whether the trustees have
had regard to the guidance
issued by the Charity
Commission on public
benefit		 Para 1.18 Trustee Statement
The trustees of Elmtree Preschool confirm
that they have regard to the guidance issued
by the Charity Commission on public benefit.
In planning and carrying out the charity’s
activities, the trustees have ensured that all
activities undertaken contribute directly to
the advancement of the charity’s objectives,
as set out in its governing document, and
that they are aimed at providing a clear
public benefit.
The trustees meet regularly to review the
charity’s activities, projects, and services to
ensure that they meet the public benefit
requirement. This includes ensuring that our
services are accessible to all applicable
members of the community, and that we
operate in a manner that promotes
inclusivity, equality, and community welfare.

Additional information (optional)

You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:

SORP reference
Policy on grant making Para 1.38
Policy on social investment
including program related
investment		 Para 1.38
Contribution made by
volunteers		 Para 1.38 Elmtree Preschool was founded by Early
Years Professionals, Rebecca Meacham
and Caroline Marchant, in response to a
need within the community, particularly after
the pandemic and underfunding had forced
the closure of many early years settings.
For the first year, we operated entirely on a
voluntary basis, dedicating our time and
resources to building a safe, nurturing, and
enriching environment for children and their
families. While we now take a salary for part
of the work we do as early years managers,
we continue to serve as voluntary trustees of
the charity. Our voluntary board of trustees
is further strengthened by three other
dedicated volunteers, who bring a wealth of
experience in early years education and
charity work.
In addition to the trustees, we are fortunate
to have the support of volunteers who help
with morning sessions, fundraising events
and with packing away at the end of each
week.
We also actively support the development of
future professionals in the field by offering
work placements and volunteering
opportunities to students from our local
secondary school. These opportunities not
only contribute to their professional growth
but also enrich the preschool with fresh
perspectives and energy.
The contributions of our volunteers have
been invaluable in helping us fulfil our
mission, and we are deeply grateful for their
dedication and commitment to the preschool
and the wider community.
Other

Achievements and Performance

SORP reference
Summary of the main
achievements of the charity,
identifying the difference the
charity’s work has made to
the circumstances of its
beneficiaries and any wider
benefits to society as a
whole.		 Para 1.20 Throughout the year, Elmtree Preschool has
made significant strides in enhancing the
development and well-being of the children
and families we serve. By providing a safe,
nurturing, and inclusive environment, we
have supported the early education and
socialisation of young children, laying a
strong foundation for their future learning
and development.
Our efforts to build trusting and supportive
relationships with families have allowed us to
offer tailored advice and assistance,
addressing the unique needs of each family.
This personalised support has been
instrumental in helping families navigate
challenges, particularly during a time when
many were still feeling the effects of the
pandemic.
We have also fostered positive partnerships
with external agencies, which has
broadened our access to vital information
and resources. These connections have
enabled us to provide enriched learning
experiences within the preschool and to refer
families to additional services that enhance
their well-being.
In particular, our outreach to vulnerable
families has highlighted our commitment to
inclusivity and community support.
Moreover, our collaborative efforts with
parents have strengthened the sense of
community within the preschool,
empowering parents to take an active role in
their children’s early education. This has not
only benefited the children but has also
created a supportive network for families,
contributing to the overall well-being of our
community.
Overall, Elmtree Preschool has successfully
fulfilled its mission to provide affordable,
high-quality early education while making a
meaningful difference in the lives of the
children and families we serve. Our work has
not only supported individual families but has
also contributed to the broader goal of
fostering a resilient and inclusive community.

Additional information (optional) You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:

Achievements against
objectives set		 Para 1.41
Performance of fundraising
activities against objectives
set		 Para 1.41
Investment performance
against objectives		 Para 1.41
Other

Financial Review

Financial Review
Review of the charity’s
financial position at the end
of the period		 Para 1.21 As a newly established charity, we have
reviewed our financial position at the end of
the financial year to assess our financial
health and sustainability. The charity has
successfully managed its initial operating
expenses, with income generated from
Bristol City Council funded education grants,
fees and donations, which has been used to
support the objectives of the charity and also
employ a small staff team.
At the year-end, the charity's financial
position is stable and sustainable, with
gross income of £79,056andyear end net
income of £26,788. Which is£18,444 more
than our first year, we hope to continue to
build upon this to ensure Elmtree remains
sustainable during the quieter Autumn terms.
Elmtree Preschool does not yet hold any
significant reserves, however the year end
net income supports us as a ‘buffer’ for the
following year. We anticipate that over the
next financial year, we will begin to build up
reserves to provide greater financial stability
and security for future activities.
Statement explaining the
policy for holding reserves
stating why they are held		 Para 1.22 Elmtree Preschool reserves policy is to
maintain sufficient unrestricted funds to
ensure we can continue to meet our
obligations and activities running as a not-
for-profit preschool in the event of
unexpected shortfalls in income or delays in
funding.
Amount of reserves held Para 1.22 Zero
Reasons for holding zero
reserves		 Para 1.22 As a newly established charity, we do not
currently hold significant reserves, as our
focus has been on covering set up and
operational costs and launching key
services. However, we recognise the
importance of building up reserves to
safeguard Elmtree Preschool’s financial
health and ensure long-term sustainability.
The reserves policy will be reviewed
annually to ensure it remains appropriate to
the charity’s needs, taking into account
factors such as cash flow, funding stability,
and future expansion plans. It is Elmtree
Preschool’s intention to gradually build
reserves over the coming years, targeting a
reserve level equivalent to 3 months of
operating costs, in order to cover any
unforeseen financial challenges and provide
financial security for ongoing projects and
activities.
Details of fund materially in
deficit		 Para 1.24 No funds are materially in deficit. One of our
trustees and co-manager has carefully
managed the charity's income and
expenditure to ensure financial sustainability,
and no activities have been undertaken that
would result in deficits being incurred.
Moving forward, we will continue to monitor
financial performance closely.
Explanation of any
uncertainties about the
charity continuing as a going
concern		 Para 1.23 Elmtree Preschool’s trustees have assessed
the charity’s ability to continue as a going
concern and are confident that Elmtree
Preschool can meet its financial obligations
in the foreseeable future. While the charity is
in its early stages, with some dependence
on external funding, the trustees have
identified no material uncertainties that
would cast doubt on the charity’s ability to
operate as a going concern. Funding
streams, including Bristol City Council
Education Funding grants and fees, are
expected to continue, and cost-control
measures are in place to ensure
sustainability. Regular reviews of financial
performance and cash flow will be
conducted to address any potential risks
promptly.
Additional information (optional)
You may choose to include further statements		 where relevant about:
The charity’s principal
sources of funds (including
any fundraising)		 Para 1.47
Investment policy and
objectives including any
social investment policy
adopted		 Para 1.46
A description of the principal
risks facing the charity		 Para 1.46
Other

Structure, Governance and Management

Description of charity’s
trusts:		 The trustees of Elmtree Preschool have
responsibilities and duties in managing the
charity’s resources and delivering its
objectives. They are bound by:
•
Charity Law: Ensuring that the
preschool operates solely for its
stated charitable purposes, as
outlined in its constitution.
•
The Constitution: Adhering to the
rules and framework set out in the
governing document.
•
Trustees’ Legal Duties: Acting in the
best interests of the charity,
managing resources responsibly, and
ensuring compliance with applicable
laws and regulations.
•
Early Years Foundation Stage
(EYFS): Ensuring the preschool
operates in line with statutory
requirements for early years
education and care, promoting the
welfare and development of children.
•
Ofsted Registration: Maintaining
compliance with regulatory standards
set by Ofsted to ensure the preschool
delivers high-quality early years
provision and meets inspection
criteria.
Type of governing document
(trust deed, royal charter)		 Para 1.25 As a CIO Elmtree Preschool’s Constitution is
the primary governing document. Elmtree
Preschool uses the ‘foundation model’, as
the charity’s only voting members are its
trustees.
How is the charity
constituted?
(e.g unincorporated
association, CIO)		 Para 1.25 Elmtree Preschool is a not-for-profit CIO.
Trustee selection methods
including details of any
constitutional provisions e.g.
election to post or name of
any person or body entitled
to appoint one or more
trustees		 Para 1.25 The appointment and selection of trustees
for Elmtree Preschool is conducted in
accordance with the provisions outlined in
the charity’s constitution. Trustees are
appointed by standing the board of trustees,
ensuring that they possess the necessary
skills, experience, and commitment to fulfil
their responsibilities.
The constitution allows for the appointment
of a minimum of five trustees, with
appointments reviewed periodically to
ensure the board remains effective and
representative. Trustees are selected based
on relevant expertise and experience in early
years education and/or charity sector,
finance, governance, as well as alignment
with the charity’s values and ethos. Induction
and training are provided to new trustees to

help them understand their legal and operational duties, enabling them to contribute effectively to the charity’s objectives. We are members of Early Years Alliance, who have a wide range of trustee training and resources available.

Additional information (optional)

Additional information (optional) Additional information (optional)
You may choose to include further statements where relevant about:
Policies and procedures
adopted for the induction and
training of trustees		 Para 1.51
The charity’s organisational
structure and any wider
network with which the
charity works		 Para 1.51
Relationship with any related
parties		 Para 1.51
Other

Reference and Administrative details

Charity name Elmtree Preschool
Other name the charity uses
Registered charity number 1200160
Charity’s principal address
(for this accounting period)		 The Elmgrove Centre,
Elmgrove Road,
Redland
Bristol
BS6 6AH
Change of address In September 2025 we moved to 19 Elmgrove Road,
Redland, Bristol. BS6 6AJ (Based in Cotham Gardens
Primary School)

Names of the charity trustees who manage the charity

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 Trustee name Office (if any) Office (if any) Dates acted if not for whole
year		 Dates acted if not for whole
year		 Name of person (or body) entitled
to appoint trustee(if any)
Rebecca Meacham
Caroline Marchant
Louise Minchin
Birgit Smee
Annette Miller
Corporate trustees–names of the directors at the date the report was approved
Director name
Director name

Name of trustees holding title to property belonging to the charity

Trustee name Dates acted if not for whole year

Funds held as custodian trustees on behalf of others

Description of the assets The trustees of Elmtree Preschool confirm that the charity held in this capacity does not hold any funds or assets as a custodian trustee on behalf of other charities or organisations. Name and objects of the Not Applicable charity on whose behalf the assets are held and how this falls within the custodian charity’s objects Details of arrangements for Not Applicable safe custody and segregation of such assets from the charity’s own assets

Additional information (optional)

Names and addresses of advisers (Optional information)

Type of Name Address adviser

Name of chief executive or names of senior staff members (Optional information)

Exemptions from disclosure

Reason for non-disclosure of key personnel details

Not applicable. All required key personnel details have been disclosed.

Other optional information

Declarations

The trustees declare that they have approved the trustees’ report above.

Signed on behalf of the charity’s trustees

gne on ea o t
Signature(s)
Full name(s)
Position (eg Secretary,
Chair, etc)
Date		 gne on ea o t
Signature(s)
Full name(s)
Position (eg Secretary,
Chair, etc)
Date		 cartys trustees cartys trustees
Rebecca Meacham Caroline Marchant

Trustee		 Trustee
20/11/2025
20/11/2025
Charity Name No (if any)
Elmtree Preschool 1200160
Receipts and payments accounts CC16a
For the period
from		 01/02/2024
Period start date		 31/01/2025
Period end date
To
Section A Receipts and payments Section A Receipts and payments
A1 Receipts Unrestricted
funds
to the nearest £
53,464
17,121
127
8,344
-
-
-
-
79,056
-
-
79,056
30,863
358
2,048
10,539
1,508
1,554
338
4,706
354
52,268
-
-
-
52,268
26,788
-
-
26,788		 Restricted
funds
to the nearest £
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 Endowment
funds
to the nearest £
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 Total funds
to the nearest £
53,464
17,121
127
8,344
-
-
-
-
79,056
-
-
-
79,056
30,863
358
2,048
10,539
1,508
1,554
338
4,706
354
52,268
-
-
-
52,268

26,788		 Last year
to the nearest £
Bristol CityCouncil FEEE 53,464 17,966
Fees 17,121 5,875
Fundraising 127 1,956
StartingBank Balance 8,344 -
- -
- -
- -
- -
Sub total(Gross income for
AR)		 79,056 25,797
A2 Asset and investment sales,
(see table).
- -
Sub total - -
Total receipts
A3 Payments
25,797

Staffing		 30,863 6,024
Trips/Extra Curricular 358 75
Materials/Resources 2,048 543
Rent/Lease 10,539 6,763
Utilities / Miscellaneous 1,508 56
Membership/Subscriptions 1,554 327
Website/Advertising 338 133
Repayto council(overestimate) 4,706 3,532
Team socials 354 -
**Sub total ** 52,268 17,453
A4 Asset and investment
purchases (see table)
, -
-
**Sub total ** - -
Total payments
Net of receipts/(payments)
A5 Transfers between funds
A6 Cash funds last year end
Cash funds this year end
17,453
26,788 - -
26,788		 8,344
- - - - -
- - - - -
26,788 - - 26,788 8,344

CCXX R1 accounts (SS)

17/11/2025

1

Section B Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the period Section B Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the period Section B Statement of assets and liabilities at the end of the period
Categories
Signed by one or two trustees on
behalf of all the trustees
B1 Cash funds
B2 Other monetary assets
B4 Assets retained for the
charity’s own use
B5 Liabilities
B3 Investment assets		 Signature
R.Meacham
Details
Details
Bank balance year end
Details
Details
Total cash funds
(agree balances with receipts and payments
account(s))
Details		 Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
to nearest £
to nearest £
26,788
-
-
-
-
-
26,788
-
OK
OK
Unrestricted
funds
Restricted
funds
to nearest £
to nearest £
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Fund to which
asset belongs
Cost (optional)
-
-
-
-
-
Fund to which
asset belongs
Cost (optional)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Fund to which
liability relates
Amount due
(optional)
-
-
-
-
-
Print Name
REBECCA MEACHAM		 Endowment
funds
to nearest £
-
-
-
-
OK
Endowment
funds
to nearest £
-
-
-
-
-
-
Current value
(optional)
-
-
-
-
-
Current value
(optional)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
When due
(optional)
Date of
approval
R.Meacham REBECCA MEACHAM 20/11/2025

CCXX R2 accounts (SS)

17/11/2025

2

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