Nagila Pre-School

A story about a witch became an exploration of artists and illustrators at Nagila Pre-School in March 2025. That example captures the setting's emphasis on following children's interests, alongside conversation, independence and learning to manage feelings.

At its March 2025 inspection, Ofsted rated the pre-school Good, judged safeguarding effective and found that children with special educational needs and/or disabilities were well supported. Based at Edgware & Hendon Reform Synagogue, Edgware, HA8 8AB, it has 46 places in total and accepts children aged 18 to 60 months.

The early years foundation stage sets the requirements for children's learning, development and care. In March 2025, the curriculum emphasised the foundations of learning, with mathematics and exploration of the world incorporated into activities shaped by children's interests.

Room on the Broom prompted children to make a large witch picture and investigate what artists and illustrators do. Work by Van Gogh and Mondrian then provided starting points for their own pictures. This gave a familiar story several directions for further exploration.

Staff acting as maths champions helped develop mathematical activities: children counted pipe cleaners threaded into colanders and toys used with a familiar song. Books also featured in group activities and independent exploration, with illustrations and props helping younger children maintain their attention.

Outdoor play in March 2025 included balancing, rolling cars along half pipes and drawing with chalk on a fence. However, opportunities for energetic exercise were insufficient to build stamina and core strength. Physical activity outdoors was an improvement priority, so the balance between imaginative play and sustained movement deserves attention.

In March 2025, a key-person arrangement connected children with staff who knew them closely. Spotlight assessments, shared with parents, supported discussion and regular review of children's next learning steps. Settling procedures helped children and their parents make the transition into pre-school.

Conversation involved patient listening and time for children to formulate their responses. Staff helped children regain calm when managing behaviour became difficult. Independence also had practical expression: children rinsed cups, cleared cutlery and cleaned their faces with individual flannels; older children practised managing the toilet themselves.

Lunches in March 2025 took dietary requirements and preferences into account, and staff monitored children with allergies. Links with specialist agencies and other settings supported arrangements for additional needs. Parents received information about daily experiences, but ideas for continuing learning at home were an improvement priority.

The address is Edgware & Hendon Reform Synagogue, Edgware, HA8 8AB. Opening hours are 7.45am to 5.30pm on weekdays, across the year, with closures for bank holidays, Jewish holidays, two weeks around Christmas and New Year, and one week in summer.

In March 2025, the pre-school received funding for free early education. That is a dated participation fact rather than a promise of an individual funded place.

• Outdoor exercise. March 2025 brought a specific improvement priority concerning stamina and core strength. During a visit, ask how outdoor activities now provide sustained, energetic movement.
• Learning beyond nursery. Daily communication and shared assessments were established in March 2025, but home-learning ideas needed development. Ask how families now receive practical suggestions linked to their child's learning.
• Attendance and funding. The weekday opening window spans morning to late afternoon, with holiday closures. Ask which booking patterns and funded arrangements fit your intended attendance.

Nagila suits families seeking an emphasis on conversation, creative exploration and growing independence. Its March 2025 examples give that emphasis substance, from artist-inspired pictures to everyday self-care. Outdoor exercise and support for learning at home remain the two practical priorities to explore when deciding whether it fits your child.