Springboard Pre-School

A garden stage, spontaneous singing and autumn discoveries shaped the picture of Springboard Pre-School at its September 2025 inspection. At its September 2025 inspection, Ofsted rated it Good and found safeguarding effective. The setting has capacity for 27 children at Springfield Park Baptist Church in Chelmsford.

Children attending in September 2025 were aged two to four. The account of their day combines independent choices with seasonal activities and clear expectations: children explored leaves, acorns and conkers, while staff used encouragement to support their efforts.

In September 2025, the curriculum followed children's interests and existing knowledge, adding seasonal themes. The early years foundation stage sets the requirements for children's learning, development and care; here, the inspection-time examples included learning through stories, imaginative play and practical exploration.

Language grew out of activity. In September 2025, staff introduced vocabulary during play with diggers and cranes, and children discussed the textures they made in dough. Singing and storytelling also gave them opportunities to listen and join in.

The garden brought another dimension. In September 2025, children chose where to play, performed songs on a stage and experimented with musical instruments. Yoga involved following movements and instructions. These examples give parents a concrete picture of the balance between expression, movement and listening.

In September 2025, staff got to know families before children started, and settling arrangements were adapted to individual needs. A key-person system provided continuity in children's relationships with adults. Children's artwork and their participation in recording attendance helped give them a place in the setting's daily life.

Stories and activities addressed feelings in September 2025. Children practised finding words for emotions and resolving disagreements; one example involved choosing a timer to help share resources. Books and materials represented similarities, differences and cultures, linking everyday relationships with respect for others.

Teamwork supported the day. In September 2025, managers used evaluation to plan developments, considered staff wellbeing and supported professional development. Communication about children's progress and learning beyond pre-school needed further development.

The address is Springfield Park Baptist Church, Springfield Park Road, Chelmsford, CM2 6EB.

In September 2025, opening hours during term time were 9.15am to 12.15pm on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, with Tuesday running from 9.15am to 3.15pm. Monday also ran until 3.15pm during the summer term. At that time, the setting provided government-funded early education for eligible children.

• Attendance pattern. September 2025 opening hours combined shorter days with a longer Tuesday and a longer Monday in summer. What current attendance arrangements would fit your family's week?
• Learning beyond pre-school. In September 2025, routine progress-sharing and support for learning at home needed strengthening. This matters for families wanting a clear connection between activities at home and at pre-school.
• Community learning. September 2025 improvement priorities included broader experiences of the surrounding community and natural world. Families placing a high value on that aspect should weigh it alongside the garden activities.

Springboard suits families drawn to the inspection-time picture of creative play, outdoor activity and individually planned settling. Its September 2025 term-time timetable would suit parents seeking shorter days alongside selected longer days. The balance is clear: engaging daily experiences, with home-learning communication and broader community learning still requiring attention at that inspection.