St John's Nursery Playgroup, Wayside

In March 2026, a mud kitchen, water-butt play and communication support using Makaton signs gave this playgroup a recognisable character. In March 2026, practical outdoor play sat alongside targeted help for children who needed a different route into learning.

At its 4 March 2026 inspection, Ofsted judged inclusion Strong standard, the other five areas Expected standard, and safeguarding standards met. The playgroup has capacity for 40 children at Wayside Jubilee Centre in Potters Bar. Children attending in March 2026 were aged two to four; that age range describes the inspection-time group.

In March 2026, the early years foundation stage provided the framework for children's learning and care, with play connecting language, physical development and exploration. Printing ladybirds brought counting, colour and shape into one activity. Organised learning zones gave children choices about what to explore.

Outdoor activity had practical substance. That March, children used a sandpit for digging and making sandcastles, mixed and stirred in the mud kitchen and fetched water from the water butt. Climbing equipment, scooters and bikes added opportunities for movement. These were different ways to use hands, bodies and ideas, rather than a single outdoor activity.

Group experiences also featured in March 2026. Children selected songs during carpet time and used chime bars to count musical beats. Story sessions, singing and instruments gave language a place beyond adult-led conversation. Themed healthy weeks included discussions about food, while local walks introduced road safety and exploration of the surrounding area.

At the March 2026 inspection, Ofsted found that staff adapted routines and learning to individual needs, supported communication through Makaton signs, visual cues and small groups, and used Lego therapy sessions to develop listening and language. This gives families concrete examples of the support behind the inclusion judgement.

In March 2026, settling arrangements were adjusted for each child, and staff took time to understand families' self-care routines. Children sought their key workers when they needed comfort or help with feelings. Regular feedback kept parents connected with the day.

Support that March included work with outside professionals, referrals and funding used to ensure individual children had the resources needed to participate. Targets were reviewed so interventions could be adjusted. Links with schools and experiences intended to build independence formed part of preparation for the next stage of education.

The address is Wayside Jubilee Centre, Wayside, Potters Bar, EN6 5NE. In March 2026, opening hours were 9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday. These are opening hours, rather than a stated session booking pattern.

• Behaviour support. In March 2026, staff did not use positive behaviour strategies consistently, and further guidance and training were required. Some children also needed further help to play collaboratively. Families should explore how staff now respond when children struggle to share or play together.
• Adult guidance in play. In March 2026, interactions helped children develop ideas, but their effectiveness varied across areas of learning. This matters for families seeking sustained support as play becomes more demanding.
• Matching the attendance pattern. The March 2026 day ran from 9am to 3pm, with children aged two to four attending. What current age range and booking pattern would fit your child?

This playgroup suits families seeking communication support alongside hands-on outdoor learning. The March 2026 account gives substance to both: targeted interventions, musical group activities and spaces for digging, mixing and climbing. The March 2026 weaknesses in behaviour support and adult guidance are the decision points to weigh against those strengths.