Boomerang Pre-School

A bird’s nest in the building’s eaves became a starting point for learning at Boomerang Pre-School in May 2021. At that month’s inspection, Ofsted rated the setting Good overall and judged safeguarding effective.

Based on Upsall Grove in Stockton-on-Tees, the nursery has capacity for 28 children aged 6 to 60 months. Its inspection account gives families concrete examples of learning through observation, conversation and practical activity, alongside two teaching and parent-partnership priorities to weigh up.

In May 2021, the early years foundation stage took practical shape through growing plants, experimenting with marks and developing conversation. Children examined the nest in the eaves and made chocolate versions of birds’ nests, connecting something around their building with an activity they could take part in.

A planter with transparent sides let children watch carrots, radishes and spring onions growing. That gave them a way to see changes beneath the surface. A garden whiteboard, paint, and brushes used with water offered different ways to experiment with marks and begin forming letters from their names.

Conversation accompanied these activities in May 2021. Children talked about ingredients for perfume, while the drinks area’s name, rehydration station, introduced unfamiliar vocabulary through an everyday routine. Resources in the preschool room also supported children’s own exploration and imaginative play.

At the May 2021 inspection, Ofsted found affectionate relationships between children and staff, with children showing emotional security. Staff gathered information from parents about children’s interests and existing abilities, giving them a starting point for planning activities.

In May 2021, large tooth models helped children practise brushing, while discussions covered sugary drinks and dental care. Staff also observed children’s learning regularly and used assessments to decide what should come next.

Parent communication at that time included private messages and conversations when children were collected. However, parents needed more practical ideas for continuing learning at home. That distinction matters: updates about the day and guidance for supporting learning serve different purposes.

The address is Upsall Grove, Stockton-on-Tees, TS19 7QU. Opening hours are 7.30am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, across the year, giving families a clear operating window for planning childcare around work.

In May 2021, the setting provided funded early education for children aged two, three and four. That is a dated description of its funding provision.

• Thinking time. In May 2021, staff sometimes moved on before children had time to answer questions. Ask how practitioners now allow children to consider an answer and explain their ideas.
• Learning at home. The May 2021 improvement priorities included giving parents ideas to extend learning. Ask for an example of the guidance families receive alongside updates about their child.
• Attendance choices. The opening day runs from 7.30am to 6pm across the year. Which booking patterns can families choose within that window?

Boomerang merits consideration by families seeking year-round childcare in Stockton-on-Tees. Its May 2021 account gives practical learning a recognisable character: growing vegetables, experimenting with marks and exploring language through everyday activities. The questions to take forward are equally concrete, concerning children’s thinking time, guidance for parents and the attendance pattern that fits family life.