Ellesmere Ducklings Pre-School

In May 2024, bikes, musical instruments and expressive storytelling gave Ellesmere Ducklings Pre-School a play-led character. At its May 2024 inspection, Ofsted rated the provision Good and found that children made good learning progress. The setting has capacity for 24 children in total.

In May 2024, the children attending were aged two to three, and staff helped them build close relationships and choose their own play. The strongest practical distinction was its term-time attendance pattern.

In May 2024, children explored independently, played instruments and joined familiar songs. Outdoors, bikes and scooters supported active play, while a home corner gave children opportunities for pretend cooking. Chalk and sand offered different ways to make marks, fill containers and experiment with materials.

The early years foundation stage sets the requirements for children's learning, development and care. Here, the May 2024 activities brought that framework into everyday play, conversation and practical exploration. Communication received particular attention: staff used expressive story reading to hold children's interest.

There were limits to the organisation of shared activities. In May 2024, some children became restless during circle time and larger gatherings. Staff also encouraged independence but sometimes missed when a child needed help using a tool. The distinction matters: offering a task is only part of helping a child learn to complete it.

At the May 2024 inspection, Ofsted found safeguarding effective and described timely specialist support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, with staff, parents and other professionals contributing to individual plans.

In May 2024, key staff combined conversations with parents and their own observations to understand children's needs. Parents received updates about development and suggestions for supporting learning at home. Private meeting rooms allowed sensitive discussions to take place away from shared spaces.

Daily care was responsive at that date: staff attended to toileting and changing needs, helped with handwashing and supported children during sociable meals. Water and milk were offered through the day. Consistent reminders about behaviour helped children understand expectations, while adaptations to activities and the environment supported participation.

The address is Ellesmere Pre-School Unit, Ellesmere Primary School, Elson Road, Ellesmere, Shropshire SY12 9EU.

In May 2024, attendance ran Monday to Friday in term time, with sessions from 9am to 3pm. The setting received early-education funding for two- and three-year-olds at that date. This was a daytime, term-time arrangement rather than evidence of a year-round attendance pattern.

Being based at Ellesmere Primary School does not guarantee a Reception place.

• Shared activities. In May 2024, larger gatherings did not sustain every child's attention. How are circle time and other group activities organised now, and what help is offered when children struggle with tools?
• Term-time rhythm. The May 2024 sessions ran from 9am to 3pm on weekdays during term time. Families needing care around school holidays should weigh that pattern against their own commitments.

Ellesmere Ducklings suits families drawn to practical play, storytelling and close communication between staff and parents. Its May 2024 daily life combined independent choices with attentive personal care. For families seeking a term-time daytime session, that inspection offers a useful picture, with group engagement and support for practical independence the two areas requiring closer attention.