St Matthew's Playgroup

Giant weighing scales, a vote for the week's book and shared construction with wooden blocks give St Matthew's Playgroup a recognisable character: everyday play becomes a chance to practise language, number and cooperation. These were features of its September 2024 provision in Chadderton, Oldham. The playgroup has capacity for 40 children.

At its September 2024 inspection, Ofsted judged the provision Good and safeguarding effective, while identifying uneven teaching linked to weaknesses in staff coaching. Children attending at that time were aged two to four.

In September 2024, the early years foundation stage provided the framework for children's learning and care, with play used to develop communication, physical skills and early mathematical understanding. Younger children tackled puzzles; older children used family conversations in role play. An interest in farms prompted staff to introduce animal resources and discussion, connecting activities to something children already wanted to explore.

Mathematics had a concrete physical form. That September, children added sand to giant weighing scales and watched the balance change, giving weight and measure a visible meaning. A weekly book vote encouraged familiarity with stories, while retelling gave children opportunities to practise speaking. During play dough activities, staff modelled words clearly for children to repeat.

Outdoor play happened daily in September 2024. Football and imaginative games sat alongside water and sand activities. Indoors, building together with wooden blocks required children to share turns and acknowledge each other's efforts: cooperation had a practical purpose.

At the September 2024 inspection, Ofsted found that support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities included prompt referrals, collaboration with families and professionals, and funded individual or small-group work to address learning gaps and prepare for school.

In September 2024, staff devoted time to helping new starters settle, using reassurance and engaging activities. They also helped children identify feelings and handle disagreements. Families received information about activities and development that could support learning at home.

Children brought packed lunches that September and also ate healthy snacks; lunchtime included choosing a seat, collecting a mat and pouring a drink. These small responsibilities gave children practice in managing their own needs.

The address is St. Matthews Playgroup, Chadderton Hall Road, Chadderton, Oldham OL1 2RQ.

In September 2024, opening hours were 8.45am to 3.45pm, Monday to Friday, during term time. Funded early education was offered for children aged two, three and four at that time. These arrangements describe the inspection-era offer.

• Teaching consistency. In September 2024, coaching did not sufficiently address gaps in staff practice, leaving some learning poorly matched to children's next steps. Ask how staff development now tackles that specific weakness.
• Term-time planning. The September 2024 timetable followed term time and ended at 3.45pm. Does the current attendance pattern fit your working day and school-holiday needs?
• Settling in. New starters received dedicated staff attention in September 2024. A visit is an opportunity to discuss how that support would work for your child.

St Matthew's Playgroup suits consideration by families who value practical learning, conversation and growing independence. Its September 2024 provision combined daily outdoor play with thoughtful uses of books, construction and measurement. The term-time timetable then offered a clear fit for families organising care around the school calendar. Teaching consistency is the substantive caution: the strengths deserve attention, alongside the need for more targeted staff coaching.