Church Langley Pre-School

In February 2023, water potions, chalk experiments and garden litter-picking gave Church Langley Pre-School a recognisable character: practical play with opportunities to investigate and take responsibility. This Harlow setting has 58 places in total. At its February 2023 inspection, Ofsted rated it Good, found safeguarding effective and reported good progress, including in communication for children learning English as an additional language.

The children attending that visit were aged three to four. The strongest examples were hands-on: exploring materials, discussing ideas and practising everyday independence.

The early years foundation stage sets the framework for children's learning, development and care, with play providing opportunities to build language, physical skills and early writing.

In February 2023, activities combined children's choices with experiences guided by adults. Staff used observations to plan what children would learn next, drawing on their interests and existing abilities. Water play prompted questions about a leaf inside a bottle; sand play led to explanations about rocks and grains. Ordinary materials became starting points for conversation.

Books and writing also had a practical place in the day. That February, children listened closely to stories, discussed their interpretations and practised writing their names on blackboards. Outdoors, chalk mixed on concrete encouraged discussion about colour. Tyres and climbing apparatus gave children opportunities to jump and strengthen their bodies, while litter pickers let them help care for the garden.

In February 2023, relationships with staff gave children confidence to express themselves. Adults offered encouragement and allowed time for children to answer questions, rather than rushing conversations. Daily conversations with staff were valued by parents, providing a regular connection between home and pre-school.

Independence was visible in small routines that month: children dressed for outdoor play, managed toileting and handwashing, and helped clear equipment before lunch. Staff received supervision and training, and the manager worked with the team to review practice.

Behaviour guidance needed greater consistency. In February 2023, children had contributed to golden rules, but staff did not use these regularly enough to reinforce expectations; sharing and taking turns sometimes caused difficulty.

The address is Church Langley Pre-School, Church Langley School, Harlow, Essex CM17 9TH.

In February 2023, opening hours were 9.05am to 3.35pm, Monday to Friday, during term time. Funded early education for three- and four-year-olds was provided at that date. These are dated operating details rather than a current attendance offer.

• Behaviour guidance. February 2023 practice needed more consistent reminders about expectations. During a visit, ask how staff now help children share and take turns.
• Term-time fit. The February 2023 operating pattern followed school terms. Ask whether today's attendance arrangements fit your working week and holiday needs.

Church Langley's February 2023 picture suits families who value practical exploration, conversation and growing independence for preschool children. Water, chalk, books and garden tasks gave substance to that approach. The term-time operating pattern matters for family planning, while consistent behaviour support is the clearest point to explore before choosing a place.