Chacombe Preschool Group

Family photographs, shared construction play and thoughtful settling routines shaped Chacombe Preschool Group's September 2022 inspection picture. At its September 2022 inspection, Ofsted judged the provision Good, found safeguarding effective and recognised timely support for children who needed extra help.

The setting has 20 places in total. Children attending in September 2022 were aged two to four; the daily pattern then combined term-time sessions with an optional lunchtime extension.

In September 2022, the learning space used neutral colours following a refurbishment. Children explored sand and water, threaded shapes together and rearranged guttering to send toy cars along it. These were practical opportunities to experiment, cooperate and build vocabulary.

The early years foundation stage sets the framework for learning and care: here, the September 2022 examples show children learning through play, conversation and shared tasks. Practitioners introduced descriptive words during messy play, which children later used themselves. Dressing up in traditional clothing from different cultures also helped children explore lives beyond their own homes.

Independence needed more room. Adults sometimes solved practical difficulties before children could work them out, including fitting cars into a trailer.

In September 2022, familiar objects helped children settle: they could bring a favourite toy, while the family tree display held photographs of relatives and pets. Looking at those pictures gave unsettled children a connection with home. A reflection area provided photographs and books for conversations about feelings.

Daily handovers covered children's activities and ways parents could continue learning at home. Staff also matched families' toilet-training methods, helping children experience a consistent approach. Observations informed the next steps in learning, with referrals to external services, including speech and language support, when needed.

The address is Chacombe C of E Aided School, 37 Thorpe Road, Chacombe, Banbury, OX17 2JA.

In September 2022, attendance ran Monday to Friday in term time. Sessions ran from 8.45am to 11.45am, an optional lunchtime session extended from 11.45am to 12.15pm, and afternoon sessions ran from 12.15pm to 3.15pm. This offered families shorter attendance blocks around the school day.

At that time, the preschool provided funded early education for three- and four-year-olds. Attendance here does not guarantee a Reception place.

• Space to think. The September 2022 inspection identified two priorities: longer conversations that stretch learning, and more time for children to solve problems independently. These matter for children learning to explain ideas and persevere.
• Planning attendance now. The September 2022 pattern included term-time sessions and an optional lunchtime extension. At a visit, ask how today's session choices, accepted ages and funding arrangements fit your family's week.

Chacombe's September 2022 picture suits families drawn to practical play, familiar settling aids and close communication between home and preschool. Its attendance pattern then served both families wanting a shorter session and those using afternoon care, with lunchtime as an optional bridge. The strongest decision point is the balance between attentive adult help and giving children time to find their own answers.