St Michael’s Pre‑School, a fixture of Andover’s early‑years landscape for more than 40 years, has confirmed it will relocate to Carpenter’s Cottage at Enham Alamein part of Enham Trust this September, ending months of uncertainty about its future.
The pre‑school’s troubles began in autumn 2023 when its purpose‑built playroom in Colebrook Way was condemned. Staff and families were offered temporary refuge in St Andrew’s Church Hall, yet just a year later, in December 2024, the Parochial Church Council gave notice for the group to vacate the premises by July 2025.
Faced with closure, the volunteer committee launched an urgent search for alternative accommodation. Committee members turned first to local borough councillor Iris Anderson, who escalated the matter to Test Valley Borough Council leader Councillor Phil North. Cllr North introduced the pre‑school to Aster Group Partnerships and Engagement Director Kevin Hodder, whose team at Enham Trust, were seeking a nursery tenant. Negotiations were swift, and an agreement has now been finalised.
“I’m delighted that St Michael’s Pre‑School have found a new home in Enham Alamein,” said Cllr North. “When I met them earlier this year, there was a huge question‑mark over whether they would be able to continue. By introducing them to Enham Trust they can keep providing their valuable service, benefitting parents in Andover, Enham Alamein and the nearby villages.”
Cllr Anderson added: “It was a pleasure to make Cllr North aware of the situation and help the nursery carry on.”
Staff say most existing families intend to make the short journey to the new site, and the pre‑school hopes to attract children from the surrounding villages. A fundraising “funday” and farewell event will be held at the Colebrook Way site on Saturday 12 July, giving current and former pupils a chance to share memories before the doors close for the final time.
Once settled in Enham, the pre‑school plans an official open day to welcome new families and thank the community for its support. Details will be announced later in the summer.
The move brings much‑needed stability to a setting that has navigated two relocations in as many years. With a new base secured, St Michael’s Pre‑School says it can now focus on what it does best: giving generations of local children their first steps in education.
