Childrens Learning Centre

Storytelling, early writing and mathematical play gave Childrens Learning Centre a clear educational character: at its September 2021 inspection, Ofsted judged it Outstanding and found safeguarding effective. That judgement is dated, rather than a measure of today's daily practice.

The Emsworth setting accepts children from birth to five and has 50 places in total. Its address is 125 New Brighton Road, PO10 7QS.

In September 2021, language ran through the activities. Animated storytelling introduced new vocabulary, while questions encouraged children to explain their ideas. Older children explored the relationship between letters and words, recognised letters from their names and practised writing them. These were concrete steps towards using language independently.

The early years foundation stage provides the framework for children's learning, development and care. Here, the September 2021 examples show what learning through play could look like: string helped older children compare heights, and necklace-making introduced patterns. Younger children sorted objects by colour, while babies and toddlers joined number songs.

Outdoor and indoor play also involved cooperation. In September 2021, children built an obstacle course with milk crates, discussed safe ways to climb down and looked out for one another. The activity brought physical challenge and consideration for friends together.

At the September 2021 inspection, Ofsted found that staff identified learning gaps promptly, sought professional advice and helped children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, and those learning English as an additional language, make excellent progress.

In September 2021, staff adjusted their responses to children's emotional needs. Familiar routines and clear expectations shaped the day, while shared toys and turn-taking gave children opportunities to practise patience. Parents received daily learning updates, and older children took resources home to use with their families. This connected nursery activities with home life.

Staff support also formed part of the September 2021 picture: individual meetings addressed wellbeing, and coaching helped practitioners review their work.

Opening hours are 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday. The centre operates across the year, closing for bank holidays and Christmas.

In September 2021, it received early-education funding for three- and four-year-olds. That describes participation at that time rather than a current funded-place arrangement.

• Language and early writing. September 2021 activities linked stories, conversation and name-writing. Families prioritising these experiences have a concrete basis for discussing the child's next steps.
• Turning a dated picture into a visit question. The educational examples come from September 2021. On a visit, how are children's learning and individual support organised now?

Childrens Learning Centre suits families seeking care across the year in Emsworth, with weekday opening hours extending from morning to early evening. Its September 2021 educational picture gives particular weight to conversation, practical mathematics and cooperation. The useful distinction is between that strong historical judgement and the everyday arrangements a family will encounter now.