Sweethearts Preschool

Growing carrots, hunting for bugs and preparing fruit gave Sweethearts Preschool's April 2024 day a practical character: children took part rather than simply watched. The setting has capacity for 25 children at Elim Church on Hayling Island.

Ofsted rated the preschool Good on 25 April 2024, finding that learning was planned around individual needs, while identifying scope to deepen children's thinking and older children's mathematics. Children attending at that time were aged two to four. That age range describes the inspection period.

In April 2024, activities followed children's interests, including tending carrots and searching for insects. These experiences brought care for living things into play. An indoor climbing frame also gave children opportunities to practise moving safely around others.

The early years foundation stage provides the framework for learning, development and care; here, the April 2024 curriculum addressed its seven areas of learning through activities tailored to each child. Staff planned what to teach next using their knowledge of skills children already had.

Language work included gestures, repeated words and conversations, with vocabulary drawn from the natural world. Everyday counting supported mathematics, although older children needed more demanding ideas. Staff also sometimes missed chances to follow an interest further, limiting how far a play experience developed.

At the April 2024 inspection, Ofsted judged safeguarding effective and SEND provision good, with personalised educational plans and cooperation between parents, staff and other professionals supporting children's progress.

In April 2024, children sought staff out for help and shared play. Adults used calm explanations to guide behaviour and gave extra help to children struggling with emotions. Speech delays prompted referrals for further support.

Independence had practical expression: children cut fruit safely, poured drinks and washed their cutlery after snacks. These small responsibilities gave them opportunities to practise managing everyday tasks themselves.

The address is Elim Church, 68 Elm Grove, Hayling Island, PO11 9EH. In April 2024, opening hours were 8am to 4pm on weekdays, during term time.

At that time, the preschool accepted funding for eligible two-, three- and four-year-olds. This is a dated account of its operation, rather than a current attendance offer.

• Older children's mathematics. In April 2024, everyday counting was established, but staff did not consistently introduce ideas that stretched older children. This matters for children ready to move beyond basic number work.
• Extending play. Staff sometimes missed opportunities to develop children's interests in April 2024. Following those interests further was a specific improvement priority.
• Planning attendance. How do today's opening hours, attendance patterns and funded arrangements fit your family's week?

Sweethearts suits families who value practical independence and learning connected to children's interests. Its April 2024 experience combined hands-on nature activities with individual learning plans and calm behaviour guidance. The balance is clear: appealing everyday experiences, alongside specific work needed on mathematical challenge and extending play.