THE Walter Powell Preschool, on Dauntsey Road, Somerford held an open day recently to show prospective parents and their children what it had to offer.

Sue Parsons from Wiltshire County Council's Early Years Education department was the guest speaker on the day and parents enjoyed a guided tour.

Ms Parsons gave a presentation outlining the benefits of preschool education and said that well-planned and organised play and activities is recognised as the key way in which young children learn.

"At the same time as learning, the children are enjoying themselves in a challenging environment," she said.

Ms Parsons emphasised that parents are children's first and most enduring educators and when parents and practitioners work together the results have a positive impact on their children's development and learning.

Members of the preschool committee were on hand to explain how pre-schools in general operate and then were available for a question and answer session on early years education and the funding available to families.