Weaverham Little Bears Pre-School

Mud play, obstacle courses and visits from community helpers give Weaverham Little Bears Pre-School a practical character in its July 2022 account. Based at Weaverham Cricket Club in Northwich, it has 26 places in total.

At its July 2022 inspection, Ofsted rated the provision Good, judged safeguarding effective and found that early identification and additional help supported children with SEND to make progress. Children attending then were aged two to four.

The early years foundation stage sets the requirements for children's learning, development and care: play supports learning alongside everyday skills. In July 2022, children used play dough to explore mathematical ideas, discussing the weight and size of their creations. That gave abstract ideas a concrete starting point.

Physical play also featured in July 2022. Children built obstacle courses, climbed equipment and crawled through tunnels, encouraging friends during races. In the mud kitchen, jugs and funnels gave children opportunities to practise pouring and persist with a tricky task.

Community learning extended beyond play resources in July 2022. A local farmer brought animals, and children explored growing vegetables and animal care. Emergency-service visits helped them understand the work of people who help their community, including the police.

In July 2022, children's photographs were displayed on the walls, giving them familiar experiences to share with others. Parents received ideas for continuing learning at home, creating a connection between activities at pre-school and family life.

At the July 2022 inspection, Ofsted identified inconsistent help with managing emotions and routines that sometimes reduced children's opportunities to act independently. Adults occasionally tidied toys or opened lunch boxes themselves while children waited, losing interest and sometimes becoming disruptive.

The address is Weaverham Cricket Club, Wallerscote Road, Weaverham, Northwich, CW8 3JN.

In July 2022, sessions ran from 8.45am to 3.15pm during term time only. The pre-school also provided funded early education for two-, three- and four-year-old children at that date. These arrangements describe its inspection-era offer.

• Emotional support. The July 2022 findings called for more consistent help with feelings and the effect of behaviour on others. During a visit, discuss how staff now respond when children struggle to share or manage frustration.
• Everyday independence. In July 2022, some adult-led routines left children waiting rather than taking part. Look at how tidying and lunchtime now give children tasks they can manage themselves.
• Attendance fit. The July 2022 pattern was term-time sessions from 8.45am to 3.15pm. What attendance arrangements can the pre-school offer your family now?

The July 2022 picture suits families drawn to practical play, physical activity and learning about community helpers. Its strengths sit alongside two clear priorities: consistent emotional guidance and more opportunities for children to manage everyday tasks themselves.