Malborough with South Huish Pre-School

Garden potions, water experiments and children helping younger friends give Malborough with South Huish Pre-School its character in March 2022. This is a small setting, with capacity for 16 children, based within primary-school grounds in Malborough.

At its March 2022 inspection, Ofsted judged the provision Good, found safeguarding effective and praised support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Children attending then were aged two to four. The strongest impression is of practical learning alongside growing independence, with specific work needed on early reading and digital safety.

The early years foundation stage provides the framework for children's learning, development and care: play supports language, physical skills and understanding of the world.

In March 2022, water play brought counting and investigation together. Children poured cupfuls into tubes, added shells and explored why the water level changed. Stories prompted familiar phrases and predictions, linking enjoyment of books with conversation.

Garden ingredients gave imaginative play substance. In March 2022, children used a pestle and mortar to make potions with garden ingredients including petals, twigs and bay leaves, comparing smells during their play. A climbing frame with a ramp supported active play, while farm outings introduced animals and nest-making materials. These experiences connected learning with things children could handle, smell and explore.

In March 2022, quieter children were invited to choose songs, and their peers gave them time to respond. Staff helped children manage coats, handwashing and toileting, including matching potties used at home where possible. Familiar routines made increasing independence manageable.

Support for individual needs in March 2022 included favourite toys and predictable transitions between activities. Families received daily feedback from staff and regular progress updates through an online platform, giving them ways to follow development beyond the setting.

Health learning was practical too. In March 2022, children used toothbrushes on a large model of teeth and a sand timer to explore brushing time.

The address is Malborough With South Huish Primary School, Higher Town, Malborough, KINGSBRIDGE, Devon TQ7 3RN.

In March 2022, opening hours were 9am to 3.30pm, Monday to Thursday, and 9am to 1pm on Friday, during term time. At that time, the setting received funding for early education for children aged two, three and four.

Its school-ground location does not guarantee a Reception place.

• Early reading. In March 2022, teaching did not build children's letter-sound knowledge in a sufficiently planned order. Ask how this learning is organised now.
• Digital safety. In March 2022, children had occasional adult-supported access to online material, but teaching about technology and online safety needed development. This matters as children's digital experiences expand.
• Attendance planning. The March 2022 timetable followed term dates and finished earlier on Fridays. A visit is the opportunity to discuss the current booking pattern and how it fits family routines.

Malborough with South Huish Pre-School suits families drawn to a small setting with practical, garden-based learning and a school-ground location. Its March 2022 provision combined imaginative play, self-care and considerate relationships. The term-time timetable from that period is relevant to family planning, while letter sounds and digital safety deserve attention alongside those strengths.