WASP, St. Marks

Language, imaginative play and everyday number work give WASP, St. Marks its clearest character. At its December 2022 inspection, Ofsted rated the provision Good, highlighting communication as a strength alongside practical opportunities to explore maths. Counting fruit at snack time made numbers useful rather than abstract.

Based at St. Marks C of E Primary School in Worsley, the setting has capacity for 32 children. In December 2022, children attending were aged two to seven; that age range describes attendance at the time.

In December 2022, play followed children's interests: making imaginary ice cream or pretending to be doctors gave them reasons to imagine, talk and sustain an activity. Stories and singing introduced vocabulary, while staff allowed thinking time before expecting an answer. Conversation had space to develop.

The early years foundation stage sets requirements for children's learning, development and care, bringing these together in everyday experiences such as play, conversation and practical tasks. In December 2022, children explored identity by studying their reflections and creating pictures of themselves. Staff encouraged respect for differences alongside considerate behaviour.

Outside, the December 2022 activities included scooter play, bubble chasing and opportunities to climb and balance. These gave children different ways to practise movement. Independence was less consistent: children helped clear up, but did not always have enough time to finish tasks within their abilities.

At the December 2022 inspection, Ofsted found safeguarding effective and described prompt identification of special educational needs and/or disabilities, with advice from external services supporting children's progress. Staff drew on local-authority guidance and speech and language therapy, connecting support with children's particular needs.

In December 2022, relationships included encouragement and celebrations of children's achievements. Settling arrangements had also been lengthened for children whose contact with others had been restricted during the pandemic. This was a practical response to different starting points.

Health conversations were woven into shared lunches in December 2022: staff discussed food choices and hygiene while eating alongside children. Security measures included perimeter gates and an intercom, and staff practised emergency drills with the school on site.

The address is St. Marks C of E Primary School, Aviary Road, Worsley, Manchester, M28 2WF. In December 2022, opening hours were 7.45am to 6pm on weekdays during term time, and the setting received early-education funding for children aged two, three and four. These are dated operating arrangements.

Sharing a site with St. Marks C of E Primary School does not guarantee a Reception place.

• Doing things independently. In December 2022, children were not consistently given enough time to finish tasks for themselves. At a visit, ask how staff now support self-care and allow children to complete those tasks.
• Acting on weaknesses. December 2022 monitoring did not always lead to timely changes. Ask for a concrete example of how a recent evaluation changed daily practice.
• Term-time fit. The December 2022 operating pattern followed school terms. What attendance arrangements and funded provision would apply to your child now?

WASP, St. Marks merits consideration for families who value language-rich play, practical maths and outdoor movement. Its December 2022 picture combines useful teaching examples with clear questions about independence and management follow-through. Families seeking term-time childcare have a relevant starting point here, provided the attendance arrangements suit their needs.