Little Ducklings Preschool

In May 2024, hatching chickens, changing caterpillars and children pouring their own drinks gave Little Ducklings Preschool a recognisable character: practical experiences accompanied growing independence. At its May 2024 inspection, Ofsted rated the preschool Good and judged safeguarding effective.

The setting has 25 places in total at Pickering Liberal Club in Pickering. Children attending in May 2024 were aged 1 to 4; the account below describes provision at that time.

In May 2024, learning drew on children's interests and the skills they needed to practise. The early years foundation stage is the framework for children's learning, development and care, connecting everyday experiences with their development.

Watching eggs hatch and discussing changes in caterpillars gave children experiences they could remember and talk about. Books, rhymes and stories supported language, while play introduced mathematical vocabulary. Listening for the first sound in their names brought another small learning opportunity into the preparations for lunch.

Outdoor activity depended on outings in May 2024: the premises had no outdoor space, and children used local parks for physical play. Trips to the library and railway station kept community experiences part of the day in poorer weather. The limitation was indoors, where babies and toddlers needed more opportunities to practise movement. Resources for pulling up and climbing safely were an improvement priority.

At the May 2024 inspection, Ofsted found that staff knew families well, recognised when children needed help from other agencies and used additional funding effectively to support participation and learning.

In May 2024, predictable routines helped children settle and understand the day. Conversation gave them opportunities both to speak and to listen. Independence had practical expression: children spread butter on crackers, served their drinks and tidied their pots, or fetched scissors when they needed help with cutting.

Self-care also featured in play, through washing dolls and a toothbrushing game. Children practised handwashing around toilet use and eating, and had fresh fruit at snack time. A yoga class helped children practise calm listening and following directions.

Teaching consistency needed attention in May 2024 following staff changes. More consistent reinforcement of key vocabulary and praise that explained exactly what children had done well were priorities. For parents, these are useful points to connect with the otherwise structured daily routines.

The address is Pickering Liberal Club, 1 Smiddy Hill, Pickering, YO18 7AN.

In May 2024, opening hours were 8am to 3pm on weekdays, with year-round operation except bank holidays. At that time, the preschool offered free early education funding for children aged two, three and four. These are dated operational details, rather than a current attendance plan.

• Indoor movement. In May 2024, younger children needed more opportunities for pulling up and climbing safely indoors. With outdoor play taking place off-site at that time, indoor physical provision deserves close attention.
• Consistency in teaching. Reinforcing vocabulary and making praise specific were May 2024 improvement priorities. Both affect how clearly children understand new language and expectations.
• Attendance planning. The May 2024 opening window ran from 8am to 3pm on weekdays. Which current booking patterns and funded-hours arrangements would fit your child's routine?

Little Ducklings suits families who value practical learning, conversation and children's growing independence. Its May 2024 provision combined memorable experiences with everyday self-care, while community outings supplied outdoor activity. The balance for parents is between those strengths and the identified need for better indoor movement opportunities and more consistent teaching practice.