Little Gems Pre-School at Clehonger CofE Primary School

Language, familiar routines and growing independence give Little Gems its clearest character. This is Clehonger CofE Primary School’s own on-site pre-school within a rural primary school community on Gosmore Road, Clehonger. At the November 2024 inspection, it served children aged two, three and four.

Early years provision received a Good judgement at the Ofsted inspection on 5 and 6 November 2024. That judgement covers the school’s early years provision; it is not a separate nursery rating. For parents, the useful detail is the emphasis on helping younger children communicate and take increasing responsibility for themselves.

Communication drives the early years learning. In November 2024, children were developing the vocabulary needed for later learning, while the curriculum suited younger children’s needs. The practical emphasis was on learning routines, managing behaviour and becoming more independent. These are foundations for joining in and taking responsibility, as well as preparation for further learning.

Books and conversation also connect learning with home. The school’s early years home activities include sharing stories, talking about places children visit and preparing something to say or make for Show-and-Tell. Parents can contribute through ordinary conversations and shared interests, rather than treating learning as something that happens only during a session.

Little Gems has its own staff team and a nursery manager whose responsibilities also include early years leadership and deputy safeguarding leadership. This links the pre-school’s management with the school’s arrangements for younger children and child protection.

Partnership with parents forms part of settling and transition. Home–school communication and transition activities are intended to help children become comfortable with school routines. A parent and teacher meeting dated 10 February 2026 included Little Gems, providing a specific example of families being included in discussions with staff.

For concerns about learning, parents are directed first to their child’s teacher. The school also has a SEND coordinator responsible for organising additional support. Food safety brings clear family responsibilities: nuts and foods containing nuts should stay at home, children should eat their own food, and parents should report allergies or changes in medical needs promptly.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process and meet the applicable deadline. September Reception applications are made online through Herefordshire Council’s route.

Transition support is a separate matter. Little Gems uses transition activities and communication between home and school to help children adjust to school routines. That preparation may make the next step feel more familiar, but it does not secure admission.

Part-time and full-time places are offered. Since April 2025, wraparound provision for children aged two to three has expanded to support working families. Contact the school office for current availability, application details and wraparound enquiries.

A visit can be arranged by calling 01981 250 218. General enquiries can also go to admin@clehonger.hereford.sch.uk. The pre-school is on the school site at Gosmore Road, Clehonger, HR2 9SN.