A PRESCHOOL has been told it must vacate its premises in the next two years.

Riding Mill Outdoor Preschool (RMOP), which is based on land owned by Broomhaugh C of E First School, has been told the first school needs the land back for its own use and will have to leave in July 2026.

Parents of pupils described the site as a 'very special place'. Sarah Richardson said it 'provides a perfect balance of nature and home comforts'.

Carole Smith, chair of the board of trustees at the preschool, notified parents of the situation and said they are looking for a new site to occupy.

Riding Mill Outdoor PreschoolRiding Mill Outdoor Preschool pupils playing (Image: Riding Mill Outdoor Preschool)

She said: "Despite our best efforts and extensive negotiations, we have now entered into a new lease which will expire in July 2026, at which point we will be required to vacate the current RMOP site.

The outdoor preschool Children playing at the outdoor preschool (Image: Riding Mill Outdoor Preschool) "The trustees have come to the difficult conclusion that we cannot risk our financial stability by entering into a legal challenge. I understand that this news will come as a shock, and we share in your sadness.

"RMOP has been a place of growth, exploration, and community for the past five years, and leaving our beloved site is not something we take lightly. However, this is not the end of our journey.

"Our commitment to providing an enriching, outdoor, early years education remains as strong as ever. Looking ahead, our priority is to find a new location that will allow us to continue offering the same level of care, creativity, and adventure that our children deserve. We will need the full support of our parents, staff, and the wider community to help us during this transition.

"Please rest assured that we are doing everything in our power to secure a new home for RMOP, and we will keep you informed of our progress. We are optimistic that with the continued support of our wonderful community, RMOP will continue to grow and flourish. As we navigate the coming months, we’ll ensure that communication remains open and we will do our best to address any concerns you may have.

"If you need further information, please contact me at chair@rmop.co.uk. We appreciate your understanding and support during this challenging time."

A statement on behalf of the School Governing Body and the Diocese of Newcastle said: "The governing body with the support of Northumberland County Council as landowner has agreed terms with the pre-school to depart the site in August 2026.

"This agreement followed much discussion and consideration of the suitability of the school site, governing body obligations and ensuring the school budget is used appropriately and in the best interests of the future sustainability of the school.

"The intention following August 2026 is that the site will be repurposed for whole school use and in particular to extend the outdoor space for Early Years and create additional community garden, sensory and intervention spaces. 

 “We wish the pre-school all the very best and will support all we can going forwards. We would also like to thank them for their huge contribution to the community and school over the years and for working with us in the interests of the children and wider community."