Acacia Pre-School

Language, independent play and gentle support give Acacia Pre-School its character. Based at Acacia Intergenerational Centre in Mitcham, it has 24 places in total.

At its February 2026 inspection, Ofsted judged inclusion, leadership and behaviour to be Strong standard, with achievement, welfare and teaching at Expected standard, and safeguarding standards met. This is a picture with clear strengths and two practical priorities: organising learning in a more deliberate sequence and making better use of space.

In February 2026, children chose between outdoor and indoor play, with sustained stretches to pursue their interests. Role play encouraged imaginative exchanges, while a sand timer helped children negotiate turns. These were opportunities to make decisions and practise sharing, rather than simply follow instructions.

The early years foundation stage sets the requirements for children's learning, development and care. Here, the February 2026 activities brought language into play: adults described the texture of dough and added songs to water activities. Size, measurement and shape introduced early mathematical ideas. Painting at a large easel and building three-dimensional structures offered further ways to explore and create.

The next step was progression. Activities needed clearer sequencing so children could build skills gradually, alongside enough room to practise them.

At the February 2026 inspection, Ofsted found effective support for children facing learning barriers, including children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, and typical developmental progress overall. Staff used information from families to understand individual needs, then worked with parents and professionals on tailored support.

In February 2026, small-group work and signing supported communication, while additional funding bought specialist outdoor equipment. Parents received feedback and ideas for continuing learning at home. Staff also taught handwashing, toothbrushing and manageable personal tasks, such as putting on coats. Healthy snacks and supervision at meals were part of that dated account of care.

The address is Acacia Intergenerational Centre, 230 Grove Road, Mitcham, CR4 1SD.

In February 2026, opening hours ran Monday to Friday in two windows: 9am to noon and 12.45pm to 3.45pm. Children attending at that time were aged two to four. These hours describe a split daytime timetable, with a gap around midday; families need to consider how that shape fits their working day.

• Learning progression. The February 2026 priority was to help staff organise activities so knowledge develops step by step. On a visit, ask how an activity now builds on what a child has already learned.
• Space for practice. In February 2026, the layout sometimes restricted children's play and opportunities to refine skills. Ask to see how space is organised for movement and sustained activities.
• Attendance arrangements. The February 2026 opening timetable had separate morning and afternoon windows. What booking patterns and funded-hours arrangements can your family use now?

Acacia merits consideration for families who value communication-rich play and support shaped around individual children. Its February 2026 assessment gives stronger backing to inclusion and relationships than to the organisation of teaching. The practical test is whether changes to activity planning and space give children enough opportunity to build on their learning. Those priorities deserve as much attention as the positive findings.