Jellytots Preschool

Play dough mixed with children's chosen scents, potatoes growing in an enclosed garden and achievements shared on a proud cloud display give Jellytots Preschool its character in March 2022. Practical exploration runs through that picture of preschool life, with children making decisions rather than simply following instructions.

At its March 2022 inspection, Ofsted rated Jellytots Good overall, judged safeguarding effective and found very good support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The setting has 25 places in total at Dinnington Village Hall; children attending in March 2022 were aged two to three.

The early years foundation stage sets the requirements for children's learning, development and care: here, the March 2022 examples included learning through play, conversation and practical exploration. Children investigated soil, drew around animal stencils and used pretend ice-cream play to share their ideas with staff.

Outdoors in March 2022, crates and stilts offered balancing challenges, while slides and climbing equipment encouraged movement. Filling toy trucks with soil introduced shape and measurement through something children could handle. Counting flour scoops connected number with making things.

Community experiences that March included visits to shops and the library, nature walks and beach trips. Growing sunflowers and potatoes gave children a direct connection with caring for plants. These experiences took learning beyond indoor activities.

In March 2022, staff helped children practise independence through pouring drinks, choosing snacks and deciding what to add to play dough. Gentle explanations and reminders supported everyday behaviour, while adults joined children's play and encouraged them to try alternative solutions.

Health visitors took part in joint developmental assessments in March 2022, and staff worked with education and health professionals to coordinate support. Links with a local nursery school helped with the next stage of children's learning. The proud cloud display let parents contribute achievements from home, connecting family experiences with preschool life.

Jellytots Preschool's address is Dinnington Village Hall, Dinnington, NE13 7LZ.

In March 2022, opening hours were 9am to 3pm, Monday to Wednesday, during term time. Funded early education was provided for children aged two, three and four at that time. These are dated operating details, rather than a current attendance offer.

• Group listening. In March 2022, group activities were not consistently organised to help children sustain attention and listen. Ask how group time is structured now and how staff adapt it for children who find listening difficult.
• Attendance fit. The March 2022 timetable covered Monday to Wednesday in term time. What attendance arrangements and funded-hours options would apply to your child now?

Jellytots suits parents who value hands-on preschool experiences, opportunities for independence and connections between home and early learning. Its March 2022 picture is concrete: balancing outdoors, growing food and exploring the local community. The Good judgement provides a dated assessment of quality; the group-time improvement point deserves equal attention when weighing the setting for your child.