Mulberry Court Pre School

In September 2024, chapati pans, dentistry resources and a pet snail gave Mulberry Court Pre School a recognisable character: children's home experiences shaped conversation, imaginative play and close observation. The setting has 37 places in total.

At its September 2024 inspection, Ofsted rated the provision Good and judged safeguarding effective. Children attending then were aged two to four, and the pre-school used the church's main hall.

In September 2024, children's interests shaped activities. Staff had added chapati pans and bakery and dentistry resources to the role-play area after listening to conversations about home. These gave children familiar subjects to explore together rather than a disconnected set of props.

The early years foundation stage sets the requirements for children's learning, development and care; here, the September 2024 examples included learning through play, conversation and practical exploration. Children investigated unfamiliar kitchen utensils and talked about their own experiences, giving new vocabulary a useful context.

Outside that month, a snail prompted comparison with the pet snail indoors, followed by drawing and gentle handling. Observation connected with care for living things. Counting received attention too, although teaching needed to extend children's vocabulary for measuring, shapes, weight and capacity.

At the September 2024 inspection, Ofsted found that specialist advice and communication resources helped children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) make good progress, including in language and confidence. A chalkboard activity also made early writing accessible through drawing and erasing marks.

During September 2024, staff stayed near younger children who needed settling support, spoke respectfully and reinforced expectations about sharing and moving safely. Independence developed in stages, from separating from parents to cooperative play and preparation for school. Staff supervision and training supported the team, which had low turnover at that time.

The address is Wymering Methodist Church on Sixth Avenue, Portsmouth, PO6 3PD. In September 2024, opening hours were 9am to 2pm on weekdays other than Wednesday, during term time.

That September, the pre-school received early-education funding for children aged two, three and four. Work with parents on nutrition was also underway, with lunchtime messages identified as an area needing greater consistency.

• Mathematical language. September 2024 teaching gave children counting practice but needed more vocabulary for shape and measurement. Look for how these ideas now enter everyday play.
• Healthy eating. Consistent lunchtime messages were a September 2024 improvement priority. Discuss how food choices and advice to families work together.
• Attendance fit. The September 2024 timetable excluded Wednesdays and followed school terms. At a visit, ask how the current attendance arrangements would fit your week.

Mulberry Court Pre School suits parents who value learning rooted in children's interests and practical steps towards independence. Its September 2024 examples offer substance: familiar role-play resources, careful observation of animals and adapted communication support. Families considering term-time care should weigh those strengths alongside the teaching priorities and their own weekly timetable.