Tickleford Preschool

In June 2023, tunnels, balancing beams and children working together to shift outdoor logs gave Tickleford Preschool a practical, physical character. At its June 2023 inspection, Ofsted rated the setting Good overall. The strongest examples combine movement with opportunities to talk, cooperate and persist.

This Weston preschool has capacity for 30 children. In June 2023, children attending were aged two to five; the account below describes its provision at that time.

In June 2023, learning included language activities in groups and an obstacle course with tunnels and beams. These offered different ways to participate: talking with others, trying a physical challenge and practising balance.

The early years foundation stage sets the requirements for children's learning, development and care. Here, the June 2023 examples included singing, movement and recalling earlier experiences: children used photographs to remember caterpillars becoming butterflies. Following instructions while moving sticks also brought language and coordination together.

Outside, children cooperated to reposition logs, persisting until they reached their chosen arrangement. Heating and water installations supported outdoor use in different weather conditions in June 2023. That gave physical play a place beyond fair-weather days.

At the June 2023 inspection, Ofsted found safeguarding effective and children, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), making good progress from their starting points. Staff recognised possible signs of harm and knew how to raise concerns through local procedures.

In June 2023, practitioners approached upset children sensitively, seeking permission to sit beside them and helping them return to an activity. Support involved attention to children's feelings as well as practical help, such as offering an apron for water play.

Work with other agencies and local schools supported transitions in June 2023. Funding paid for staff training and resources for individual children, connecting additional support with practical changes to their care.

Meals and snacks were nutritious in June 2023, but routines needed attention. Children sometimes returned to toys after washing their hands while waiting for food; staff needed to explain hygiene more clearly. Adults also served food rather than giving children opportunities to choose or help themselves, and questions about fruit needed adapting when children did not respond.

The address is Tickleford Drive, Weston, Southampton SO19 9QP.

In June 2023, opening hours were 8.15am to 3.45pm, five days a week during term time. This was a term-time opening window, rather than an account of separate booking patterns. Funded early education was provided for two-, three- and four-year-olds at that time.

• Attendance arrangements. June 2023 hours followed a term-time timetable. What opening hours and booking patterns now apply to your child's place?
• Food-time independence. In June 2023, adults served food and children had few opportunities to make choices. On a visit, explore how children now take part in serving and choosing food.
• Hygiene and conversation. June 2023 priorities included explaining handwashing and adapting questions to extend children's thinking. Ask how these practices work during snacks and meals.

Tickleford's June 2023 provision suits children who enjoy movement, cooperative outdoor tasks and learning through shared experiences. Tunnels, beams and log-moving give that description substance. Sensitive responses to children's feelings complement the physical activity, while food-time independence, hygiene explanations and questioning remain the dated improvement points families should explore.