Buddies Pre School, Collier Row Lane

A small, term-time pre-school with 26 registered places, Buddies Pre School operates from Worthington Hall at the Scout Association in Collier Row. It accepts children aged two to four. Ofsted rated it Good at its July 2023 inspection.

The strongest evidence is about warm relationships, purposeful challenge and independence. In 2023, children knew the daily routine, listened well and responded confidently when tasks became difficult. In July 2023, the setting ran a 9am to 3pm term-time day.

In July 2023, learning mixed stories and songs with hands-on physical challenges. Staff demonstrated scissors, balancing beams and crushing ice with hammers, then encouraged children to persist when an attempt did not work. Story sessions developed comprehension as well as enjoyment: adults posed open questions and helped children locate answers in the text, introducing vocabulary in context.

The Early Years Foundation Stage connects learning, development and care through play and guided activity. In July 2023, staff understood each child's starting point and used it to plan personalised next steps.

Warm adult-child relationships were a clear strength in 2023. Staff listened, celebrated progress and gave children a predictable routine. Independence was practical: children selected snacks, poured cereal and milk, washed their hands and tidied themselves after eating.

Children with special educational needs and disabilities received help to take part confidently, with staff working alongside external specialists where extra support was needed. Parents reported that updates helped them continue learning at home. Ofsted found safeguarding effective in July 2023, supported by staff training, reporting knowledge and regular risk assessment.

Buddies Pre School is at Worthington Hall, 2nd Collier Row, Scout Association, Collier Row Road, Romford RM5 2BE. The current provider record gives an age range of 24 to 60 months and 26 places. It operates Monday to Friday during term time, closing for school holidays. The July 2023 record gave hours of 9am to 3pm and funded early education for two-, three- and four-year-olds, both as inspection-date information rather than a current provider promise.

Current booking patterns and terms should be checked directly.

• Focused group activities. The July 2023 report asked staff to adapt activities more readily when a child's concentration drops. Ask how the team now changes pace or approach during group learning.
• Choosing activities. It also called for stronger support when children find it difficult to select and join an activity. Families can ask what strategies are now used.
• Current practical terms. Obtain the latest booking model and charge structure before deciding.

Buddies Pre School will appeal to families seeking a small, term-time setting for a child aged two to four, with evidence of warm relationships, strong language teaching and practical independence. The 2023 judgement and two improvement points give parents useful questions about engagement and child-led choice. The setting is best suited to families seeking a term-time day, while those needing a particular attendance pattern should confirm the latest booking information.