Cheselbourne Village School Nursery Review

A new early years building and weekly Forest School give Caterpillars Preschool its distinctive shape: a school-based start with room for learning outdoors. Cheselbourne Village School takes preschool children from two years nine months until school age, with provision running daily during term time. Preschool belongs to Caterpillar Class, the school's combined preschool and Reception setting.

The early years building opened in September 2024. An early years lead oversees both parts of the provision, giving the preschool a place within the school's teaching structure rather than a separate identity.

The preschool timetable begins with registration at 9am and ends with collection at 3pm. Between those points, the school timetable places lunch before afternoon learning and stories towards the day's end. That gives families a clear outline of the day.

Learning follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Here, the school's aims put number skills and vocabulary alongside sharing, kindness and growing independence: learning involves how children communicate and play together as well as what they know. In March 2023, Ofsted identified early years number activities that engaged children, with adults demonstrating mathematical vocabulary to extend their understanding. Everyday talk therefore has a role in developing number knowledge.

Outdoors has a regular place in learning. The home page includes preschool in weekly Forest School, describing practical experiences in natural or woodland surroundings linked to curriculum learning. The school's garden provides another physical setting for exploring nature. These are concrete opportunities to connect learning with the world outside the classroom.

Books also travel home: preschool children have library books, giving families something specific to share together. Past activities show how practical experiences can supply material for conversation. A July 2022 Caterpillar Class account describes shopping at Steeptonbill farm shop for Gruffalo crumble ingredients and seeing the animals. This is an example of class activity, rather than a promise of a recurring trip.

Parents can speak with staff at either end of the school day or use the office email. That offers a direct route for sharing concerns about a child's education or welfare.

For children needing additional support, the school's process involves teachers, the SEND coordinator and external specialists. Parents are consulted when concerns arise. Support is recorded through a Provision Map or an Individual Learning Plan, with reviews involving staff, parents and the child. Families therefore have a defined part in reviewing support.

Shared school lunch arrangements encourage healthy eating and social skills around the table. Local Food Links supplies hot meals; packed lunches should contain nutritious food rather than sugary treats. The school also provides morning milk for children younger than five.

Familiarity is the transition benefit here. Preschool children already belong to Caterpillar Class, and their time in the school helps them become familiar with its setting before moving on.

Attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal Dorset school admissions route. Treat the continuity of surroundings and the application process as separate matters when planning the next step.

Preschool runs during term time. Breakfast Club operates from 7:45am to 8:45am, while After School Club runs from 3:15pm to 4:45pm. Both allow regular weekly bookings or individual sessions through the office. Breakfast is included in the morning club; the afternoon club includes a snack, drink and play or craft activities. Contact the school for current charges.

For enquiries or to arrange a school viewing, use the office on 01258 837306 or office@cheselbourne.dorset.sch.uk. The timetable directs Caterpillar Class drop-off to the Village Hall and gives preschool collection as 3pm.