Littlepips Preschool

A shed turned into a sensory room gives Littlepips Preschool a memorable starting point: in March 2023, staff adapted the space around children's needs and interests. This Rotherhithe setting has capacity for 23 children at St Marys Church Hall.

At its March 2023 inspection, Ofsted rated Littlepips Preschool Good overall. Children attending then were aged two to four; morning and afternoon sessions operated during term time.

In March 2023, learning combined practical exploration with opportunities to communicate. Children compared strips of tape by length, experimented with electronic toys and practised brushing model teeth. These examples connected early mathematics, technology and personal care to things children could handle themselves.

The early years foundation stage sets requirements for children's learning, development and care, bringing learning and everyday routines together. In March 2023, staff planned around children's interests: sand play introduced new vocabulary, while songs and rhymes included signing to help children express themselves.

Outdoor experiences extended beyond the garden. In March 2023, children explored the neighbourhood on walks and took trips beside the river, learning about the natural world. Large garden equipment supported physical activity, although resources were harder for children to reach independently. Indoor learning also needed more challenge for the most able children: adults sometimes prepared craft materials that children could have attempted themselves.

At the March 2023 inspection, Ofsted judged safeguarding effective and found that children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, and those receiving additional funding, were supported well. The sensory room was one practical adaptation to individual needs.

In March 2023, staff assessed children's development and shared learning ideas with families, including books to take home. Work with the local authority helped staff develop strategies for children to manage their emotions. Information sharing with other settings and activities before starting school supported continuity between stages.

Breakfast choices and snacks were supplied in March 2023, while families provided packed lunches; staff also gave parents guidance on healthier lunch choices. Children were encouraged to drink water and practise handwashing around meals and toileting.

The address is St Marys Church Hall, St Marychurch Street, Rotherhithe, London SE16 4HZ.

In March 2023, opening hours ran from 8.45am until 3.15pm across five days each week. The term-time booking patterns were a morning session from 8.45am to 12.15pm and an afternoon session from 11.45am to 3.15pm. These were separate attendance options within the opening day.

Funded early education for two-, three- and four-year-olds was offered in March 2023.

• Independent outdoor play. In March 2023, access to garden resources needed improvement. On a visit, look at how children choose and reach equipment themselves.
• Challenge for confident learners. In March 2023, some activities gave children too little scope to attempt harder tasks. Ask how staff now extend learning for children ready for the next step.
• Term-time attendance. Morning and afternoon sessions formed the March 2023 pattern. How would the current booking arrangements fit your family's week?

Littlepips Preschool's March 2023 provision suited families seeking either morning or afternoon preschool attendance during term time. Practical learning, river trips and communication with parents gave it character. The two improvement priorities matter too: children need accessible outdoor resources and activities that stretch their growing independence.