St Gabriel's Early Years Group

Bicycles, climbing equipment and lunches at an on-site school give St Gabriel's Early Years Group a recognisable character in its September 2021 account. This Tamworth setting, on Wilnecote Lane, has capacity for 50 children. At its 21 September 2021 inspection, Ofsted rated it Good and judged safeguarding effective.

The practical picture from September 2021 was term-time provision, with a daytime session alongside before- and after-school sessions. Those arrangements belong to that date.

In September 2021, children listened to stories in small groups and joined songs with actions, combining books, movement and opportunities to practise language. An interactive whiteboard gave them a way to draw their families and discuss emotions. Learning had tangible materials, too: conkers, stones and leaves invited exploration of the natural world.

The early years foundation stage brings learning, development and care together in the child's day. The September 2021 activities illustrate that combination: drawing supported early writing, conversations extended vocabulary, and outdoor play developed physical skills.

Bicycles and climbing equipment were part of the outdoor experience in September 2021. Staff also returned to a recent walk in conversation, helping children remember their experiences and find words for them.

In September 2021, a key person helped children engage with activities, while staff made time to play and talk alongside them. Independence was practised through everyday tasks, including handling tissues, using the toilet and managing cutlery.

At the September 2021 inspection, Ofsted identified two improvements: collecting fuller information from parents about children's existing learning, and strengthening initial settling support for children learning English as an additional language. These matter at the start, when staff need to understand both a child's abilities and how to help them feel comfortable.

During September 2021, children had a hot meal in the school on the same site, collecting meals from the counter and carrying them to their tables. Adults joined them at lunch, making it an opportunity for conversation as well as self-care.

The address is Wilnecote Lane, Tamworth, B77 2LF.

In September 2021, the setting operated Monday to Friday during school terms: the daytime session ran from 9am to 3.30pm, with before-school care from 7.45am to 8.50am and after-school care from 3pm to 6pm. Funded early education was provided for two-, three- and four-year-olds at that time.

School transition had a practical connection in September 2021: the on-site school's early years teacher visited daily, and staff worked with teachers on learning that could continue into school. Attendance does not guarantee a Reception place; families still apply through the local authority admissions process.

• Starting-point conversations. September 2021 findings called for more detailed parental input about existing learning. Discuss how your child's abilities and interests will shape their first activities.
• Settling with another home language. Initial support for children learning English needed strengthening in September 2021. Ask how familiar words and routines would be incorporated for your child.
• Attendance planning. The September 2021 pattern combined term-time daytime and wraparound sessions. What attendance arrangements now fit your family's week?

The September 2021 picture suits families considering term-time daytime sessions, before-school sessions or after-school sessions, with practical independence and contact with an on-site school featuring in daily life. Its Good judgement sits alongside specific improvements concerning learning information from parents and settling with an additional language. Both deserve attention when considering this setting.