St Anthony's Pre-School/Playgroup

What is it like to attend this early years setting?

Children arrive keen to begin their playful learning. They cuddle with staff as they talk about their feelings. All children talk confidently and respectfully listen to each other. Children of all ages play together harmoniously. Older children talk about being kind to their friends. They take responsibility to care for their younger peers, modelling how to behave and follow the rules. Children have a wealth of activities to choose from where they develop a range of skills. For example, children snuggle with a book and enjoy learning and using new words. They also use their imaginative skills as they play pretend families in the home area. Children develop their small-muscle skills as they peel carrots at snack time and explore making shapes with play dough.

Despite the setting having to pack away the environment every day, staff are careful to create a calm, warm and stimulating environment each day. As a result, the children move comfortably around the space and make themselves at home. In the outdoor area, children have planted fruit and vegetables and explore the natural world as they dig for worms. Children practise balancing on bicycles and climb the climbing frame. They practise their drawing in the sand. They have fun exploring and experimenting with different materials in the mud kitchen.

What the setting must and should do next

The provider should:

• strengthen the opportunities for children to consolidate and demonstrate their new learning through independent play.