Little Fir Trees Preschool

A garden bank, a ladder into a playhouse and enthusiastic folk-song dancing give Little Fir Trees Preschool a recognisable character in its July 2022 daily life. This preschool at K M Sports Club, Kirby Muxloe, has 42 places in total.

At its July 2022 inspection, Ofsted rated the provision Good, found safeguarding effective and praised the support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Children attending then were aged two to four; that age range belongs to the inspection period.

In July 2022, children exercised balance outdoors by tackling the garden bank and climbing into the playhouse. Music brought movement too: familiar folk songs prompted dancing, hopping and jumping. These activities gave children opportunities to practise physical coordination.

The early years foundation stage sets the framework for learning, development and care. Here, the July 2022 examples show learning through play: children mixing Gruffalo crumble predicted how ingredients would change their mixture, while staff introduced words for its texture. Mixing ingredients became a chance to explore language and cause and effect.

Independence was evident in July 2022. Children fetched aprons for water play and attempted tricky lunch packets before seeking help. Staff also let children try to resolve small disagreements themselves, giving them practice in sharing and cooperation.

In July 2022, staff discussed children's next learning steps with parents, helping families continue that learning at home. Conversations also helped staff respond to children's needs. Parents also valued staff support for children's preparation for school.

Support for additional needs in July 2022 involved assessment, targeted help, early referrals to other agencies and use of additional funding. Safeguarding practice included staff positioning themselves to supervise free play and helping children understand the reasons for preschool rules.

The address is K M Sports Club, Ratby Lane, Kirby Muxloe, Leicester, LE9 2AQ.

In July 2022, opening hours were 9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday, during term time. Funded early education was provided for two-, three- and four-year-olds at that date. Children managed packed lunches, choosing their eating order and putting belongings away afterwards.

• Purposeful adult-led learning. In July 2022, planned activities did not consistently support their intended learning. During a visit, ask how staff now adapt these activities to children's next steps.
• Challenge during play. In July 2022, some interactions stopped short of extending children's learning, including a ball game that became repetitive. Look for how practitioners build on a child's existing skills.
• Attendance fit. The July 2022 opening pattern was term-time weekdays. What attendance arrangements would fit your family's routine now?

For families who value independence, movement and learning through practical play, the July 2022 picture offers concrete strengths. Parent communication and additional-needs support also earned inspection praise. The balance lies in the two teaching improvements: sharper activity planning and more consistent challenge during play.