Millies Pre-School

A vote for the next story becomes an early maths lesson at Millies Pre-School: in January 2026, children used named blocks to choose a book, then compared the resulting towers. Small decisions gave children a practical introduction to choice and fairness.

At its 22 January 2026 inspection, Ofsted judged achievement, behaviour and routines, welfare, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, and leadership to meet the expected standard, with safeguarding standards met. There are 36 places in total; those attending in January 2026 were aged 2 to 4.

The early years foundation stage sets expectations for children's learning and care, with play providing opportunities to develop communication, physical skills and understanding. In January 2026, water play brought counting and comparisons together: children transferred water with pipettes and beakers, while collage-making gave them practice handling small materials.

Storytelling had several forms. That January, children invented narratives with small-world figures and negotiated parts in role play; adults used actions and props during group stories to introduce vocabulary. Larger gatherings were less successful, with background noise and preparations for going home interrupting children's attention.

Outdoor activity was a priority in January 2026, especially for children with less access to outdoor space. Running, climbing and balancing offered physical challenges, while movement songs encouraged activity and helped children concentrate. Adapted equipment and adult assistance helped children participate.

At the January 2026 inspection, Ofsted found that children with SEND were developing communication and independence, supported by individual plans, specialist resources and collaboration with external professionals. Visual timetables, mobility aids and specialist seating were among the practical adjustments used.

In January 2026, extra adults helped children settle at the beginning of the day, and key persons drew on their knowledge of families to offer reassurance. Cover during a key person's absence needed attention: interaction was sometimes less consistent.

Everyday independence was practised that January through coats, pouring drinks and opening food packaging. A cardboard figure and a spray bottle turned sneezing into a hygiene demonstration, although shared snack dishes and eating from tables weakened the lesson in practice.

Communication extended learning beyond the setting in January 2026 through story packs and suggestions for counting, turn-taking and solving problems at home. Leaders also exchanged information with schools about children's routines, needs and achievements to help prepare for the next stage.

Millies Pre-School is at St. Mildreds Centre, 30 Bingham Road, CROYDON, CR0 7EB. In January 2026, opening hours were 08:45 to 14:45, Monday to Friday. These are dated opening hours rather than a session-booking pattern.

• Younger children's attention. In January 2026, large group activities were disrupted by noise and home-time preparations. During a visit, ask how activities are organised for children who struggle to stay involved.
• Behaviour guidance. That January, adults responded inconsistently to indoor running and smaller disagreements. Ask how staff now give children clear, shared expectations.
• Key-person cover and snack hygiene. Both needed attention in January 2026. Ask how familiar interaction continues during absences and how shared food is served.
• Attendance fit. The January 2026 opening window ended at 14:45. What booking patterns and hours would apply to your child's place?

Millies Pre-School suits families who value practical independence, outdoor movement and close links between home learning and nursery activities. In January 2026, these priorities sat alongside improvements needed in group routines, behaviour guidance, key-person cover and hygiene. Those everyday details deserve attention when deciding whether it fits your child.