Stepping Stones Pre-School York

In September 2023, a child’s favourite diggers, interactive storytelling and fruit children cut themselves gave Stepping Stones Pre-School York its character. At its September 2023 inspection, Ofsted rated the setting Good, with children settled, enjoying relationships with staff and developing independence.

Based at Hurst Hall in Strensall, York, the pre-school has 40 places in total. Children attending in September 2023 were aged two to four. That age range describes the children at that time.

In September 2023, books shaped more than story time. Children helped select a book of the month, while story sacks made shared storytelling interactive and books prompted further activities. Songs, rhymes and clapping the syllables of children’s names added opportunities to listen and speak.

The early years foundation stage sets the framework for learning, development and care: children build skills through play and everyday experiences. In September 2023, those experiences included growing sunflowers and watching a butterfly’s life cycle. Resources for exploring technology followed children’s interest in it, giving their curiosity a practical outlet.

Physical play had space and substance. In September 2023, the enclosed garden accommodated scooters and pedal bikes, while large construction blocks became imaginary castles. Sand, mud and dough gave children different materials to handle. Daily outdoor exercise sat alongside nature walks, football sessions and planned outings to the park, post office and library, extending experiences beyond the pre-school.

At the September 2023 inspection, Ofsted found effective safeguarding arrangements and good support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, with managers recognising the importance of coordinating support with education and health professionals. These are dated judgements.

In September 2023, settling could begin with a familiar interest: staff prepared diggers in the sandpit after parents explained a new child’s favourite toys. Sharing materials and taking turns were part of play, while star-shaped stickers recognised achievements. Everyday tasks also gave children responsibility, from washing hands to cutting snack fruit and pouring drinks.

Staff development had a regular rhythm in September 2023. Half-termly meetings considered training, children’s progress and their next support needs. Safeguarding and first-aid training formed part of staff preparation, and children practised keeping play spaces safe by clearing up sand.

The address is Hurst Hall, 1Border Road, Strensall, York, YO32 5SR.

In September 2023, opening hours were 8am to 4pm on weekdays, during term time. Funded early education was offered for children aged two, three and four. These arrangements describe that period, rather than a current attendance offer.

• Language during play. The September 2023 improvement point was to use richer vocabulary and more descriptive talk while children played. This matters alongside the storytelling and early literacy work.
• Planning attendance. Term-time opening shaped the September 2023 offer. What attendance patterns and funded-hours arrangements would fit your family now?

Stepping Stones suits families who value practical independence, stories and hands-on play. Its September 2023 account combines an enclosed garden with activities shaped by children’s interests, and a Good judgement gives that account a clear inspection context. The improvement priority is equally concrete: extending the language children hear during play.