Busy Bees Pre-school Playgroup

In April 2023, giant foam blocks, biscuit baking and stories carried into outdoor play gave Busy Bees Pre-school Playgroup in Littleport a recognisable character. In April 2023, children experimented with shapes, mixed paint and acted out stories outside: practical experiences that gave them choices and reasons to keep trying.

At its April 2023 inspection, Ofsted judged the provision Good, found safeguarding effective and praised support for children with special educational needs or disabilities and those learning English as an additional language. Teaching consistency remained an improvement priority.

The playgroup has capacity for 50 children. Children attending in April 2023 were aged two to four; that age range describes the inspection visit.

The early years foundation stage sets requirements for children's learning, development and care, bringing play and everyday routines into their education. In April 2023, younger children baked biscuits and explored paint, while older children joined songs and stories before extending their imaginative play outdoors.

Large outdoor equipment gave children opportunities for movement. Building and rebuilding shapes with giant foam blocks encouraged experimentation and persistence. These were activities children could change and develop, rather than simply finish.

April 2023 also brought opportunities to grow produce, buy local ingredients and cook healthy recipes. Ramadan and Easter featured in learning about different traditions. Conversations, stories and nursery rhymes gave children reasons to contribute their own ideas.

Ofsted's April 2023 inspection identified three priorities: strengthen staff confidence in teaching mathematics, clarify what activities should teach, and shorten adult-led sessions when children lost interest. The distinction matters: enjoyable activities need clear learning purposes, and listening time needs to match children's attention.

In April 2023, children had affectionate relationships with staff, and everyday expectations encouraged independence with belongings, handwashing and toileting. Parents received updates about their children's experiences, while staff worked with families and other professionals to arrange additional support.

Healthy eating was part of the April 2023 day through cooking, growing and discussions about food choices. Families also received information about healthy habits, connecting those experiences with life at home.

The address is Grange Lane, Littleport, Ely, CB6 1HW. In April 2023, the playgroup occupied a purpose-built building on primary-school grounds and opened on weekdays from 8.50am to 2.50pm during school terms. These are dated opening hours, rather than a description of bookable sessions.

At that time, funded early education was provided for children aged two, three and four. Attendance at a nursery on school grounds does not guarantee a Reception place; families still apply through the local authority admissions process.

• Teaching and attention. The April 2023 priorities concerned mathematics, clear learning intentions and lengthy adult-led activities. On a visit, ask how staff now plan these activities and respond when children lose interest.
• Attendance arrangements. The April 2023 opening window followed school terms. What current attendance pattern and funded-hours charge arrangements would apply to your child?
• Moving to school. The April 2023 setting occupied primary-school grounds. Treat the nursery choice and the Reception application as separate decisions.

Busy Bees merits consideration for families who value practical play, outdoor activity and opportunities to build everyday independence. Its April 2023 strengths were tangible: construction, cooking and storytelling offered different ways to participate. The teaching priorities deserve equal weight when deciding whether its present arrangements suit your child.