Little Cherries Preschool at Cherry Orchard Primary School

Outdoor learning starts early at Little Cherries: preschool children have regular Forest School sessions, and their classrooms have access to outdoor learning spaces. This is Cherry Orchard Primary School’s own preschool, on Timberdine Close in Worcester. Children can join during the term in which they turn three.

The emphasis is on independence and learning alongside others. At the inspection on 20 and 21 February 2024, Ofsted graded the school’s early years provision Good; preschool children were learning to share turns and treat one another considerately. That finding concerns early years within the school, rather than a separate nursery inspection.

Language has a central place in the day. The early years curriculum combines children’s choices with planned learning, using story texts as the starting point for themes that change each half term. Children’s questions help shape subsequent lessons, giving their curiosity a practical influence on what comes next.

Little Cherries follows the Early Years Statutory Framework alongside Development Matters. For parents, that means learning extends beyond early reading and number work: communication, movement and emotional development sit alongside art, exploring the world and learning to get along with other children. Entry assessment establishes what children already understand, so planning can build from their starting points.

Forest School adds a distinct outdoor strand. Regular sessions include preschool, while the school grounds contain woodland learning space, a pond and an environmental area. The preschool classrooms also have access to equipped outdoor learning areas. Together, these give outdoor exploration a place in the learning week alongside classroom activity.

Seesaw gives parents regular updates about their child’s progress. Families can also arrange conversations with staff by contacting the school office; urgent messages should be made by telephone. That provides both a continuing record of learning and a direct route for concerns.

Support for additional needs sits within the school’s Graduated Approach. Termly reviews can identify when outside agencies should contribute advice or resources, with that input helping shape an Individual Provision Plan or Pupil profile. The school aims to make learning accessible while recognising each child’s individual progress.

Families can apply for benefit-related Free School Meals from the preschool stage. This is a conditional entitlement, so eligibility matters when planning meals.

Separate application. Attending Little Cherries does not guarantee a Reception place at Cherry Orchard. Families must apply separately through the normal school admissions process and meet its deadline. Worcestershire Admissions is the application route.

Preparation for that change includes practical work at home: taking turns in games, managing a lunchbox and practising dressing. For a child with additional needs, families are encouraged to discuss development before Reception and share helpful strategies with the new teacher. These steps support the change of routine; they do not secure admission.

The preschool accepts the universal funded entitlement of 15 hours for three- and four-year-olds, beginning in the term following their third birthday. This funding start differs from the earliest joining point, so families should distinguish the two when planning attendance.

For enquiries, telephone 01905 352787 or email office-co@riverscofe.co.uk. School tours can be booked through a form, and alternative appointments can be requested when the advertised dates do not suit. A visit offers families a chance to discuss Little Cherries within the wider school setting.