Little John's Pre-school

In April 2026, dinosaur models, favourite stories and small-group conversation supported language development at Little John's Pre-school, alongside an emphasis on children's independence. At its April 2026 inspection, Ofsted judged all six assessed areas to meet the Expected standard and safeguarding standards to be met. Early literacy and advice on learning at home were the two priorities for improvement.

Based in Leicester's St John the Baptist Church Rooms, the pre-school has 82 places in total. In April 2026, children attending were aged 2 to 4; that age range describes the children at that time.

The early years foundation stage sets the framework for children's learning, development and care. Here, its everyday meaning is play that develops communication, relationships, physical skills and early understanding of numbers.

In April 2026, language activities included songs, games and conversation in small groups. Staff repeated new words and used children's existing interests to shape activities. Dinosaur books and matching models gave children something concrete to discuss, while counting toys and comparing shapes brought mathematical language into play.

The game What's in the bag? involved children taking turns to pull out and name objects. In April 2026, it gave children who spoke other languages at home opportunities to practise English with their friends. Dough tools offered another kind of practice: children moulded and cut dough while sustaining their attention.

During that month, movement was woven into indoor sessions through dancing and jumping to music. Children also used a nearby school playground for outdoor exercise. Library visits and outings to places of interest extended their experience of the surrounding community.

At the April 2026 inspection, Ofsted found that targeted support generally helped children with SEND and other learning barriers progress, although early literacy teaching sometimes moved to letters and sounds before preparatory skills were secure. That distinction matters: participation in activities and the sequence of learning both need attention.

In April 2026, key persons helped children recognise feelings and manage emotions. Picture cards explained routines, and familiar stories supported children with limited vocabulary; staff also used words from children's home languages to aid understanding. Parents, key persons and outside agencies contributed to reviews of additional support.

Practical independence was part of care that month. Children practised handwashing, toileting and looking after their belongings. Healthy-eating displays and cooking sessions helped families plan packed lunches, while oral-health guidance supported care beyond the pre-school.

The address is St John the Baptist Church Rooms, 4a Clarendon Park Road, Leicester, LE2 3AD. In April 2026, opening hours were Monday to Friday, 9am to noon and noon to 3pm.

During that month, leaders worked with local schools and other agencies on transitions and support. Communication kept parents informed about children's development, but guidance on continuing learning at home was inconsistent.

• Early literacy. Strengthening the foundations for reading and writing was an April 2026 improvement priority. Ask how activities now build those skills before introducing letters and sounds.
• Learning at home. April 2026 findings identified uneven advice for parents. A visit is an opportunity to discuss the practical suggestions families receive between sessions.
• Attendance arrangements. The April 2026 opening windows were 9am to noon and noon to 3pm. Which booking patterns and funded-hour arrangements would fit your child?

Little John's Pre-school suits families who value language-rich play, support for independence and close communication about their child's development. Its April 2026 experience combined small-group activities with practical self-care and community outings. The decision should also weigh the two clear improvement priorities: the sequence of early literacy teaching and consistent help for learning at home.