Friary Preschool

An indoor tree carrying leaves for children's kind deeds gives Friary Preschool a memorable thread: everyday behaviour becomes something children can recognise and discuss. In December 2025, staff used this display alongside group conversations about feelings and considerate behaviour.

At its December 2025 inspection, Ofsted awarded Strong standard across achievement, behaviour and routines, welfare, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, and leadership and governance, and found safeguarding standards met. This Crawley setting has 60 places in total; children attending in December 2025 were aged 2 to 4.

In December 2025, learning followed the early years foundation stage, the framework for children's learning, development and care. Books, conversation, physical play and early mathematical ideas gave that framework practical expression.

The mud kitchen linked language to action: staff talked with children as they moved conkers between containers, introducing position and quantity. Outside, cars rolled down ramps and numbered cones helped children compare how far they travelled. These examples connect early mathematics with play children can handle and see.

Regular forest school sessions in December 2025 involved exploring nature and the wider world. Children could also choose physical activities indoors and outside, with free access to outdoor play. Visits from firefighters, police and paramedics brought community services into their learning.

Small-group storytelling included the Nativity. Staff varied their questions to involve children with different levels of understanding. Seasonal play-dough activities involved cinnamon sticks and pipe cleaners, giving children opportunities to practise precise hand movements while making their own creations.

At the December 2025 inspection, Ofsted found that close relationships with key children supported emotional security, while targeted activities and partnership with parents helped children with special educational needs and/or disabilities develop skills and make progress. Support was tied to children's individual starting points.

In December 2025, Makaton signing and visual prompts supported communication, including for children with speech and language difficulties. Staff worked with families and other professionals on adjustments and support. A cosy area offered space for sensory regulation; adults also taught words children could use to explain their feelings.

Home and preschool worked together on toilet training. Children practised handwashing, toothbrushing and preparing fruit for snacks in December 2025. Parents supplied packed lunches, with staff helping families choose nutritious food.

Face-to-face conversations and a regular newsletter kept families informed at that time. Staff discussed next learning steps and shared ideas for home, giving parents practical ways to continue children's learning.

Friary Preschool is at Friary Pre School, Southgate Drive, Crawley, RH10 6HD. In December 2025, opening hours were Monday to Friday, 9am to 3pm. That daytime window is a useful reference for families considering how preschool fits around work and other care.

• Planning attendance. The December 2025 opening window was 9am to 3pm on weekdays. At a visit, what current booking pattern and settling arrangements would fit your child and family routine?
• Sustaining standards. The December 2025 next step asked leaders to maintain improvement and high standards, with attention to a transformational effect on children's experiences and outcomes. The emphasis was on extending practice rather than a named remedial action.

Friary Preschool suits families drawn to outdoor exploration, practical language learning and close collaboration over children's development. Its December 2025 practice connected these elements through conkers, stories, signing and conversations about feelings. Families whose routines fit daytime preschool hours have a clear inspection-era picture to consider, supported by Strong standard judgements across all six assessed areas.