Barrow-upon-Humber Preschool

What is it like to attend this early years setting?

Leadership's vision for 'the best start for every child' is apparent in this inspiring and inclusive pre-school. Children thrive in the care of the highly skilled and nurturing staff team, who have high expectations for all children. They demonstrate a strong sense of belonging and confidence as they explore the exceptional environments, both inside and outside. Staff are quick to seize the moments that enhance children's learning. For example, staff observe children's fascination with a snail they have discovered, while exploring outside. They spend time observing and discussing the snail's movements with the children. Staff show children where the eyes and mouth are located on the snail. Children learn, at first-hand, about the distinct features of some animals they encounter.

The induction arrangements are highly successful, creating a seamless transition from home. For example, staff offer home visits prior to children starting. They value the information shared by parents during these times. Staff build exceptionally strong partnerships with parents, from the start. Parents are very complimentary about the outstanding levels of support their children get from the whole staff team.

The curriculum is aspirational and dynamic, giving children the best opportunities to excel. Leaders and staff regularly review the curriculum to ensure it meets the needs of all children. They closely monitor children's progress to identify any gaps in their learning. Every child gets exactly the right support to achieve well. They are incredibly well prepared for their future learning.

What does the early years setting do well and what does it need to do better?

• Strong leadership across the pre-school really benefits children and their families. This includes the committee, who are proactive and supportive. Leaders value the different skills that the staff team bring to the pre-school. They fully support staff in their roles and utilise their expertise to continually improve outcomes for children. Staff take responsibility for different aspects of the provision, such as parent partnerships and healthy eating. They receive comprehensive training to carry out these roles.
• Children have many opportunities to learn about the environment during their forest-school sessions. They learn new skills, such as using a saw to cut wood and how to keep themselves safe near a fire. These sessions develop children's confidence to attempt new challenges with a 'can-do' approach.
• The support for children's communication and language development is superb. Children are totally immersed as staff read them stories. There are many high-quality books in every part of the pre-school for children to access independently. Staff conversations with children are playful and meaningful.
• They listen carefully to what children tell them and respond positively. Children learn to express their thoughts and ideas with much confidence.
• Staff are quick to act when children are not meeting developmental milestones. They work closely with parents and professionals to identify and implement targeted plans that enable children to make progress. Staff demonstrate high levels of commitment in supporting children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Children who are eligible for additional funding make excellent progress. The funding is fully targeted to enhance their learning and development needs.
• Staff promote a calm, purposeful ethos and are excellent role models. Children's happiness and well-being are fully supported through their sensitive and caring approaches. Children fully understand what is expected of them and their behaviour is exemplary. They demonstrate deep levels of care and respect for others and the resources. Staff are skilled at helping children manage their emotions, for example, when they are struggling to cope with transition times in the pre-school.
• The pre-school plays an active part in the community. Staff plan many opportunities for children to participate in community events. Children learn about the distinct features of their local area. They listen to stories and play with resources that originate from different cultural backgrounds. Children begin to understand and appreciate the similarities and difference between themselves and others.
• Staff strongly support children in developing healthy habits. They fully promote children's good oral health, for example, by only offering children milk or water to drink. Children learn how to brush their teeth properly, with staff's expert guidance. Parents receive important information that helps them to provide healthy packed lunches for their children.