Minety Pre-School CIC

Magnetic-brick towers and conversations about unfamiliar words give Minety Pre-School CIC its character in the December 2023 account: children's interests shaped the learning, with staff helping them test ideas rather than simply complete an activity. The setting has capacity for 31 children.

At its 11 December 2023 inspection, Ofsted rated the provision Good. Two practical improvements qualify that judgement: more consistent opportunities for large physical movements and clearer explanations of how children's behaviour affects others.

In December 2023, an interest in things going up led children to build towers and homes for toy animals. Staff prompted them to consider shapes and stability, bringing reasoning into their play.

The early years foundation stage sets the framework for children's learning, development and care. In December 2023, this included hand movements practised through squeezing shaving foam and language developed through shared reading. A cosy, quiet reading space gave children somewhere to listen and discuss new vocabulary.

Winter weather sometimes restricted garden use. In December 2023, indoor alternatives did not consistently give children enough balancing and climbing practice. That matters for physical confidence as well as exercise.

At the December 2023 inspection, Ofsted found safeguarding effective and additional learning needs well supported, including through work with parents and external agencies. Practical adaptations included objects used to help children understand routines and pens made easier to access.

In December 2023, The Colour Monster supported work on managing emotions. Staff discussed children's development together and sought Makaton training to support communication. Termly updates helped parents understand the learning and continue it at home.

Behaviour reminders needed more explanation. In December 2023, telling children to stop running indoors or climbing low ledges did not consistently help them understand the consequences, and the behaviour recurred.

The address is Minety Church Of England Primary School, Sawyers Hill, Malmesbury SN16 9QL. Attendance at the pre-school does not guarantee a Reception place.

In December 2023, opening hours were 9am to 3pm on weekdays during term time. A breakfast club ran from 8am to 8.45am, with after-school care from 3pm to 5pm for the local primary school. The pre-school accepted children from 18 months and received early education funding for children aged two, three and four.

• Movement through winter. December 2023 provision did not consistently replace restricted garden time with balancing and climbing opportunities. On a visit, ask how these skills are now practised in poor weather.
• Explaining behaviour. December 2023 reminders sometimes stopped at instructions rather than reasons. Ask how staff help children understand the effect of their actions.
• Attendance planning. The December 2023 model combined term-time pre-school with breakfast and after-school care. What current attendance pattern and written quotation would fit your family?

The December 2023 picture suits families seeking term-time pre-school or breakfast and after-school care alongside primary education. Interest-led construction, shared reading and practical learning adaptations give the account substance. The strongest decision points are how physical play continues through winter and how staff explain behaviour boundaries.