K M C Preschool

Tyres, swings and climbing gave outdoor play a physical edge in June 2021 at K M C Preschool. Children also recreated a zoo using animals and a map, bringing an experience beyond the setting into their imaginative play.

Ofsted rated the preschool Good at its June 2021 inspection. It has capacity for 24 children; the children attending that visit were aged two to five. The account below describes its inspection-era provision.

In June 2021, the early years foundation stage took practical shape through storytelling, early literacy and activities built around children's interests. The Very Hungry Caterpillar prompted craft work, exploration of sounds and letters, and acting out the story. That connected a familiar book with several ways for children to participate.

Children discussed caterpillar life cycles and took trips that extended their understanding of the world. The garden supported energetic movement: children swung, climbed and rolled tyres. These experiences gave them opportunities to explore both living things and their own physical abilities.

Planning in June 2021 drew on observations of what children already understood and what they needed to learn next. Mathematics needed greater consistency, however: staff needed to develop their use of mathematical vocabulary and their support for early number skills.

At the June 2021 inspection, Ofsted found safeguarding effective, but identified inconsistent help with emotions and behaviour, especially for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities. This makes emotional support an important part of a family's assessment of the setting.

In June 2021, each child had a key person, while the wider staff team also knew them. Children practised dressing themselves and serving food, making ordinary routines opportunities to build independence. Hygiene conversations included germs and how to catch sneezes and coughs.

Parents' and children's suggestions contributed to development planning at that time. Staff received supervision, coaching and training linked to their development needs, providing a structure for reviewing practice.

The address is 17th Bristol Scout Hq, adjacent to St Michael's Church, Two Mile Hill Road, BS15 1BQ.

In June 2021, the preschool operated on weekdays in term time, with sessions running from 9am to 3pm. It provided funded early education for children aged two, three and four at that time. These are dated attendance and funding arrangements.

• Emotional support. June 2021 practice was inconsistent in helping children handle feelings, especially those with SEND. During a visit, ask how staff now agree and use strategies for a child who becomes upset.
• Early mathematics. Staff needed to strengthen mathematical vocabulary and skills in June 2021. Ask for examples of how number language now enters children's activities.

K M C Preschool's June 2021 provision would suit families drawn to practical independence, stories and active garden play. The overall Good judgement sits alongside two specific teaching concerns: emotional support and early mathematics. Those details give families useful priorities for assessing the preschool, rather than relying on the headline grade alone.