Little Cumberland Pre-School Review

A mezzanine classroom, a garden gate and access to the infant school’s wider grounds give Little Cumberland Pre-School a distinctive shape. Children aged 2–4 attend this provision within Cumberland Infant School’s building on Methuen Road in Southsea. It combines a classroom of its own with shared spaces for movement, stories and play.

Ofsted judged early years provision Good at the inspection on 6 and 7 December 2022. That judgement covers the school’s early years provision rather than a separately inspected nursery. The preschool’s character is practical: children can explore different levels of their classroom, use the library and take part in physical activities in the hall.

Exploration is central to Cumberland’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) approach. In parent terms, the emphasis is on learning through experience: asking questions, trying ideas and building language alongside early foundations in number, reading and writing. The school aims to combine planned projects with children’s interests, giving their questions a part in shaping learning.

Construction has a named place in the early years: Adventure Time includes building resources and a Design Area. These give children something concrete to work with as they develop ideas. In December 2022, early years children were enjoying climbing, jumping and building in the physical development zone. The curriculum also had a sequence of knowledge and skills beginning in Nursery, although the school-wide improvement work included making learning activities develop greater depth across subjects.

Outdoor provision extends beyond the preschool’s dedicated play space. A gate connects it to the school garden, while shared facilities include a trim trail, field, playground and quiet area. That creates different possibilities for active play and calmer exploration. Indoors, the mezzanine adds another level to the classroom; the hall accommodates dancing and exercise as well as lunch. The library also houses guinea pigs, bringing animal care into the children’s surroundings.

The preschool team includes assistants and a deputy lead; the lead also holds the designated safeguarding and SENCO roles. This gives families identifiable roles for discussing safety and additional needs. The preschool says its staff build relationships with families, and the EYFS team offers advice on helping children develop communication skills.

Lunch is a clear practical responsibility for parents. Children staying for the 11.30am–12.30pm lunch period bring a packed lunch. The hall provides space for eating, so families planning a session across midday need to include lunch in their preparations.

Attending Little Cumberland does not guarantee a Reception place at Cumberland Infant School. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process. Portsmouth City Council’s School Admissions Service is the route for school-place enquiries and applications.

Preparation for starting Reception is a separate matter. The induction programme includes play and story sessions, a meeting for parents and carers, and home visits by Reception staff shortly before children start. Staff also talk with local nurseries about children and needs already identified. These activities offer opportunities to share concerns and help staff get to know the child; they do not secure admission.

Morning sessions start at either 8.00am or 8.30am and finish at 11.30am or 12.30pm. Afternoon sessions begin at 12.30pm, ending at 3.30pm or 4.00pm. Full-day combinations use either morning start and either afternoon finish, giving families several choices around the same preschool day.

Funded and non-funded places are offered for children aged 2, 3 and 4, and funding and hours can be shared between providers. There are also 15-hour funded places for two-year-olds. To book a preschool tour, email admin@cumberland.portsmouth.sch.uk. The preschool’s direct telephone number is 023 9229 3586.