Kingfishers Pre-Schools

In May 2026, handrails, adapted furniture and resources chosen for individual children gave Kingfishers Pre-Schools a practical emphasis on inclusion. Based at Dilhorne Endowed Primary School in Dilhorne, it has 13 places in total.

At its May 2026 inspection, Ofsted judged inclusion to be at the strong standard, the other assessed areas at the expected standard, and safeguarding standards met. The priorities for improvement concerned behaviour support, hygiene routines and professional learning for newer staff.

In May 2026, the curriculum followed the early years foundation stage, the framework for children's learning, development and care. Play connected these areas: wooden blocks prompted discussion about shapes, while rolling hoops gave children opportunities to count and explain their ideas.

Books and singing also featured that month. Children chose stories for adults to read with them, talked about events in the stories and sang into a microphone. A visiting animal presenter gave them experiences to recall and talk about, linking an encounter with later conversation.

Outdoors, bicycles and scooters provided practice in steering and balance. Children searched for worms in mud, watered planted seeds and experimented with water and paintbrushes. These May 2026 examples combined movement, investigating living things and early mark-making.

At the May 2026 inspection, Ofsted found that staff identified additional needs promptly, worked with other agencies and adapted resources and the environment, with children making rapid, sustained progress. Handrails, furniture adjustments and visual prompts made participation practical rather than simply an intention.

During May 2026, families shared children's routines with key staff, helping care remain familiar. Adults talked with children about feelings, and parents received updates about learning and development. Partnerships included the school on the same site.

Mealtimes that month involved children collecting cups and plates and pouring drinks themselves. Food included fish, vegetables, kiwi and watermelon. However, handwashing after outdoor play was inconsistent, and some children needed clearer support to understand expectations and manage interactions. Support for newer staff also needed further development.

The address is Dilhorne Endowed Primary School, Godley Lane, Dilhorne, Stoke-on-Trent, ST10 2PF. In May 2026, opening hours were 7.45am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, and children attending were aged one to four. These are dated operating details.

Sharing a site with the primary school does not guarantee a Reception place.

• Everyday routines. The May 2026 improvement priorities covered behaviour guidance and handwashing. During a visit, ask how staff now make expectations clear and reinforce hygiene after outdoor play.
• Support from the outset. In May 2026, newer staff needed more structured professional learning. Ask how induction and ongoing development translate into consistent care.
• Attendance fit. The May 2026 opening window extended from morning to late afternoon. Which booking patterns would suit your family's week?

Kingfishers suits families who value practical adaptations and a connection with the primary school on the same site. Its May 2026 strengths lay in inclusion, with hands-on play providing concrete opportunities for conversation, movement and independence. The decision also needs to weigh the identified gaps in everyday routines and staff development.