Happy Days Pre-School

In May 2024, superhero movements, seed planting and snail investigations gave Happy Days Pre-School a recognisable character: everyday play became a starting point for conversation and discovery. In May 2024, these activities brought together movement, language and an interest in living things.

At its May 2024 inspection, Ofsted graded the pre-school Good, judged safeguarding effective and found that the SEND coordinator used strategies to help children make developmental progress. The setting has 26 places in total; children attending at the inspection were aged two to three.

In May 2024, mathematical ideas emerged through play: water-tray animals prompted comparisons of size, while a number-matching activity offered extra challenge to children already familiar with numbers. Play dough gave staff another opening for conversation, introducing vocabulary for different textures.

The early years foundation stage sets the requirements for children's learning, development and care. Here, the May 2024 examples show what that can mean in practice: children exploring materials, talking about books and practising movement through play.

A lending library extended reading beyond the setting. During May 2024, children discussed animals and colours in picture books, giving them concrete subjects to talk about. Superhero training was a themed movement activity, while garden balancing equipment offered another way to practise physical skills. Children also examined snails using magnifying pots. These were hands-on opportunities to connect words with things they could explore.

In May 2024, staff drew on children's experiences at home to start conversations, including talking about familiar foods during planting. Adults reinforced consideration for other people and helped children understand the setting's behaviour expectations. Familiar experiences and clear boundaries gave daily interactions a personal, practical basis.

Staff development also received attention that May: leaders identified training needs and provided learning opportunities, alongside attention to staff wellbeing.

Happy Days Pre-School is based at Ickenham United Reformed Church, Swakeleys Road, Ickenham, Uxbridge, UB10 8BE.

In May 2024, opening hours were 9.15am to 2.30pm on weekdays, during school terms. At that time, the setting received early-education funding for children aged two, three and four. These are dated operating arrangements rather than a current attendance offer.

• Noise during activities. In May 2024, noise sometimes prevented children from hearing clearly and taking part fully. On a visit, how is sound managed during group activities?
• Doing things independently. That May, adults sometimes took over tasks children could practise themselves, such as preparing their sleeves for water play. Look for opportunities for children to attempt everyday tasks before adults help.
• Planning attendance. The May 2024 arrangement centred on weekday, term-time opening. Before joining, what current attendance pattern would fit your family's week?

Happy Days merits consideration by families who value practical play, books and outdoor exploration. Its May 2024 activities give those priorities substance, from themed movement to close examination of snails. The balance needs attention too: quieter activities and more chances to manage small tasks independently were the clear improvement priorities.