In a letter sent to parents and guardians at the end of February, staff confirmed the pre-school would close from July 2025.
It comes as a low number of applications for the 2025/2026 school year led to the Education Authority’s withdrawal of Preschool Education Programme funding at the setting. “Without funding, the setting is not financially viable,” the letter read.
“Staff will continue to be committed to deliver the high level of Preschool Education and support children's development and wellbeing until the end of the school year.
"This decision has been particularly tough for all of us as we have cherished the relationships built with each child and family throughout the last 31 years. The love and care the staff have shown to each child is unparalleled, and we are immensely grateful for the trust you placed in us.”
We’ve taken a look into the Larne Times archives and unearthed these lovely photos from the pre-school between 2006-2015 – can you spot any familiar faces?

9. Hansel & Gretel Playgroup
Hansel and Gretel Playgroup took part in Glynn PS Christmas Play in 2015. INLT 51-230-AM Photo: ALISTAIR MAWHINNEY

10. Hansel & Gretel Pre-school
Pictured at the Hansel & Gretel Pre-school Glynn celebrations in 2014 are Charlene Evans and Dylan Norris. INLT 13-038-PSB Photo: Phillip Byrne

11. Hansel & Gretel Pre-school
Diane and Jack McCune smile for the camera at the Hansel & Gretel Pre-school celebrations in Glynn Village Hall, 2014. INLT 13-039-PSB Photo: Phillip Byrne

12. Hansel & Gretel Pre-school
Olivia Hall looks on as Sophie Montgomery gets her nails done by her mum, Lynsey, at the the Hansel and Gretel Pre-school celebrations in Glynn Village Hall, 2014. INLT 13-040-PSB Photo: Phillip Byrne

