Space Cadets

In March 2022, mud-kitchen play, bird feeders and a connection with a host school gave Space Cadets its character. At its March 2022 inspection, Ofsted rated the provision Good, found that children progressed well and judged safeguarding effective. That is a dated assessment of the setting, rather than a description of today's daily arrangements.

Space Cadets has 32 places in total and is based at Squirrel Hayes County First School in Stoke-On-Trent. In March 2022, the children attending were aged 2 to 11, bringing early-years provision and care for older children into the same setting.

The early years foundation stage sets the framework for children's learning and care, including learning through play. In March 2022, children chose activities for themselves alongside sessions directed by adults. This gave them opportunities both to pursue an interest and to take part in planned learning.

Practical experiences supplied the colour. In March 2022, children filled bird feeders and combined twigs and leaves in the mud kitchen for imaginary cooking. Saint Patrick's Day activities included clover pictures, introducing a festival through something children could make. Children also practised writing numbers and letters from their names.

Outdoor play took place daily in March 2022. Apparatus in a larger area linked to the host school provided opportunities for balancing and climbing; balls and skittles added active games. However, learning outdoors needed further development for children who preferred that space.

In March 2022, children developed bonds with their key person and other staff. Staff used gentle prompts about kindness and taking turns, while encouragement helped children take pride in what they made. Low staff turnover supported continuity of care at that time.

Communication with families combined conversations and an online application in March 2022, with guidance about supporting learning at home. Children explored healthy eating and dental care, and took part in yoga exercises. These were practical ways to connect movement and health with everyday routines.

Transition work also featured in March 2022: staff cooperated with the host school and schools children would subsequently attend. For older children, club activities included gardening, games and local outings, alongside opportunities to discuss their school day and choose activities.

The address is Squirrel Hayes County First School, Springfield Road, Stoke-On-Trent, ST8 7DF. Being based at a school does not guarantee a Reception place; families still apply through the local authority admissions process.

In March 2022, the setting operated on weekdays throughout the year. Term-time sessions ran from 7.20am to 9am, 12pm to 3pm and 3pm to 6.15pm. During school holidays, the holiday club opened from 7.20am to 6.15pm. These times describe the arrangements at that date.

• Outdoor learning. In March 2022, outdoor activity was daily, but the learning environment needed development. On a visit, look at how children who favour outdoor play can extend their learning there.
• Everyday teaching. The March 2022 improvement priorities included making better use of spontaneous moments to reinforce understanding. Ask how staff build learning into children's conversations and self-chosen activities.
• Attendance now. The March 2022 arrangements combined term-time sessions and holiday-club provision. Which current booking pattern would fit your child's age and your family's routine?

Space Cadets suits consideration by families seeking early-years care within a school setting, as well as those weighing before- and after-school care or holiday-club provision. Its March 2022 picture combines practical play, key-person relationships and transition work. The decision points are concrete: how outdoor learning has developed and how staff use everyday play to deepen understanding.