Musbury Moles Preschool near Colyton in East Devon has been incorporated into Musbury Primary School, which is part of First Federation Trust, a multi-academy of 29 primary schools across Devon and Dorset. 

Clair Murrell, Head of Musbury Primary, says, ‘Musbury Moles is a well-established preschool based in a separate building on site here at the school. We’ve always maintained a strong, collaborative partnership but feel really excited to officially join forces with them and make it a school-based Nursery for children from two years old. We will continue to provide excellent learning opportunities in a safe and supportive environment, taking advantage of the wonderful outdoor space and highly qualified staff.’ 

Starting life as a small group of South Devon schools in 2006, First Federation has grown to a larger multi-academy with primaries spanning across Plymouth, Devon and West Dorset, with schools ranging from two-class village establishments to those from larger coastal towns including church and community. Musbury Primary joined the Trust in 2017 and has benefited greatly over the years from the collaboration and shared expertise on offer, receiving support from leaders in education, safeguarding, inclusivity and professional development. 

Paul Walker, Chief Executive Officer of First Federation Trust, said, ‘We’re very pleased to welcome Musbury Moles into our family of schools and look forward to working closely with them as part of our ongoing support with Musbury Primary. As with all our member schools, we will use our collective knowledge and skills to contribute to the growth and development of the Nursery, to ultimately provide the best possible education for all. 

It’s important for our member schools to retain their unique identity and values. Musbury Nursery will draw from the existing strength of the school and begin striving towards a shared vision for children to ‘dream big and aim high’, while aspiring for every individual to aspire, flourish and achieve within the heart of the community.’   

Ewan Emery-Rich, Acting Nursery Lead, said, ‘We’re looking forward to the future opportunities this amalgamation will bring and to sharing our knowledge and resources. We will continue to encourage children to explore the world around them, and to learn via an extensive range of activities including Forest School, 'cooking’ in the sensory garden and building bug hotels. As an Eco School Green Flag award holder, we also teach children the importance of recycling and upcycling from a young age.’ 

Clair Murrell continues, ‘Nursery children will benefit from our broad and progressive Early Years curriculum, and we will introduce reading and phonics from an early age to provide a seamless transition into Reception.’  

Musbury Nursery will provide term-time childcare during school opening hours with spaces available from September 2025. Families should contact the school office if they are interested in a visit.