Purley Pre School

In September 2025, a rope swing, a see-saw and a forest school area gave Purley Pre School's outdoor life real substance. In September 2025, children used these spaces to test their balance, work together and explore how movement works. Play had a practical purpose.

At its September 2025 inspection, Ofsted rated the provision Good and judged safeguarding effective. Based at Long Lane Primary School in Tilehurst, Reading, the pre-school has 28 places in total; children attending at that inspection were aged two to three.

In September 2025, outdoor play included a rope attached to a tree, where younger children practised balance, and a see-saw that older children powered together. The forest school area provided opportunities to solve problems and cooperate outdoors. These were concrete opportunities to practise physical and social skills.

The early years foundation stage sets the framework for children's learning, development and care: here, the September 2025 examples included learning through play, conversation and practical exploration. While building with crates, children compared materials and explained their choices as they tried to make a tower stand. Language was part of the task rather than a separate exercise.

Regular care-home visits also featured in September 2025, giving children experience of socialising beyond the pre-school. Indoors, a game of hide-and-seek involved children arranging chairs together and staff joining their play. Both examples show the importance of shared activity in the day's experiences.

At the September 2025 inspection, Ofsted found effective support for children with SEND, children receiving additional funding and those learning English as an additional language, with individual adjustments and collaboration between staff, families and outside professionals supporting progress.

In September 2025, settling arrangements helped new children join activities, while staff kept parents informed about their child's development and day. Children practised dressing for outdoor play and putting on wellington boots. Work on recognising emotions, friendships and speech also contributed to preparation for school: independence was built through everyday tasks.

The address is Long Lane Primary School, Long Lane, Tilehurst, Reading RG31 6YG. In September 2025, opening hours were 7.30am to 3pm, Monday to Friday, during term time.

At that date, the pre-school received funding for free early education for children aged two and three. Its setting within primary-school grounds does not guarantee a Reception place.

• Staff development. In September 2025, individual coaching and mentoring were not consistently established or monitored. Ask how staff development now translates into teaching practice.
• Term-time routine. September 2025 operations followed school terms. What attendance pattern and holiday arrangements would fit your family now?
• School preparation. September 2025 practice emphasised dressing, friendships and speech. The primary-school setting should be considered separately from the Reception admissions decision.

Purley Pre School merits consideration for families who value outdoor exploration and practical independence. The September 2025 picture combines physical challenge, purposeful conversation and tailored support, balanced by a clear need to strengthen staff coaching. Its inspection-era term-time routine would suit families organising childcare around school terms.