Chudleigh Knighton Pre-School

In September 2023, repeated storytelling, a deer spotted in the neighbouring field and practice with everyday tasks illustrated Chudleigh Knighton Pre-School's emphasis on language, outdoor exploration and independence. At its September 2023 inspection, Ofsted rated the provision Good and found safeguarding effective. There were also two clear priorities: extending children's thinking and developing their understanding of difference.

The pre-school has 20 places in total. In September 2023, children attending were aged two to four, and the setting occupied a building designed for preschool use in Chudleigh Knighton, near Newton Abbot.

The early years foundation stage sets requirements for children's learning, development and care: everyday play and routines contribute to their development. In September 2023, staff returned to one story throughout the week, giving children repeated opportunities to discuss its characters, recall events and practise new words. Hand signs accompanied communication, while action songs brought movement into the day.

Outdoor activity had practical substance in September 2023. Play cars, bicycles and a swing gave children opportunities to practise movement; binoculars and a compass became tools for investigating where a deer had gone. Regular walks explored nature, and occasional singing visits took children to a nearby church and village hall. These experiences connected learning with their surroundings.

At the September 2023 inspection, Ofsted found that support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities worked well, with the special educational needs coordinator collaborating with families and professionals and visiting children at home before they started.

In September 2023, staff modelled language children could use to resolve disagreements over sharing. Children also practised changing after wet play, putting their clothes away and requesting help. These were useful opportunities to take responsibility for manageable tasks.

Parents in September 2023 received regular updates about their children's next developmental steps, giving them something concrete to build on at home.

The address is Paulines Place, Chudleigh Knighton, Newton Abbot, TQ13 0EY.

In September 2023, opening hours were 9.30am to 3.30pm on Mondays and Fridays, and 8.30am to 3.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, during term time. At that date, the pre-school received early education funding for two-, three- and four-year-olds. These arrangements describe that period.

• Challenge during exploration. In September 2023, staff sometimes missed chances to extend children's thinking during material-mixing activities. Families who value investigative play should consider how adults deepen an activity beyond enjoyment.
• Understanding difference. In September 2023, learning about similarities and differences was not routinely woven into play. Broader representation in everyday learning was an improvement priority.
• Attendance fit. The September 2023 opening pattern followed school terms and varied by weekday. What attendance arrangements now apply for your child's intended days?

The September 2023 picture suits families who value repeated storytelling, outdoor exploration and children practising independence. Home visits for children with additional needs were another meaningful element. The balance is clear: these everyday experiences earned a Good judgement, while greater intellectual challenge and broader learning about difference remained priorities.