First Steps Pre-School

A covered den for quiet moments and take-home chatter packs give First Steps Pre-School a recognisable character: space to manage emotions, alongside encouragement to talk and share stories. These were features of its July 2023 provision at The Manor Youth Centre in Windsor. Ofsted rated the setting Good at its 13 July 2023 inspection.

In July 2023, children attending were aged two to four; the strongest practical examples combined language, physical play and close relationships with staff.

In July 2023, the early years foundation stage provided the framework for children's learning, development and care, with stories, movement and play putting those responsibilities into practice. Staff planned learning using observations of children's interests and development. Older children explored letters from their names and the sounds associated with them, giving early literacy a personal starting point.

The chatter packs lending scheme encouraged families to share books and conversation at home. Stories and rhymes also featured during the day, linking language activities across the setting and home.

Outdoors, in July 2023, children tackled climbing equipment, practised hopping and made large marks on the garden floor. Water and funnels offered another reason to experiment and talk together. Younger children's teaching was less consistent: activities did not always extend what they already understood or could do.

At the July 2023 inspection, Ofsted found safeguarding effective and children with special educational needs and/or disabilities progressing well. Safety measures included securing internal doors against public access from adjoining buildings.

In July 2023, children sought reassurance from their key persons and shared stories close beside them. Staff helped children handle disagreements by modelling requests for a turn and naming feelings, making social skills part of ordinary play.

Participation in the COVID recovery plan helped staff recognise a need for somewhere children could settle their emotions. In July 2023, the resulting covered den gave children somewhere to take quiet time and manage their emotions. Staff also exchanged advice with parents, supporting continuity between home and pre-school.

Support for children learning English as an additional language needed greater consistency in July 2023. Some opportunities to help them join others were missed, leaving some playing alone for stretches.

First Steps Pre-School operates at The Manor Youth Centre, Hanover Way, Windsor, SL4 5NW.

In July 2023, opening hours ran from 8.45am to 3.30pm on weekdays.

• Younger children's learning. In July 2023, activities did not consistently build on younger children's existing skills. How are starting points used to plan their next steps now?
• Joining in with others. July 2023 practice sometimes left children learning English playing alone. Support for participation is an important discussion point for these families.
• Attendance planning. The July 2023 opening window covered the morning through mid-afternoon. Which current booking patterns and funded arrangements would fit your week?

First Steps suits families who value conversation, physical play and help with managing feelings as priorities for preschool care. Its July 2023 provision offered concrete examples of each. The balance matters: younger children's learning and participation for children learning English were the two clear areas needing attention.