A Devon pre-school has been praised by inspectors after an Ofsted report found children were “flourishing, thriving and progressing” while building “loving and caring relationships” with staff and classmates.
Inspectors visited Abbotsham and Alwington Pre-School in Abbotsham, near Bideford, on Friday, January 30, and found the setting was meeting safeguarding standards while achieving a “strong standard” in several areas.
The report said all children were making progress from their starting points, with staff praised for quickly identifying barriers to learning and supporting children with additional needs. Inspectors found children with speech and language delays were making “excellent progress”, while those with English as an additional language were able to communicate their needs confidently.
Inspectors also highlighted the setting’s focus on communication and social development, saying children were becoming “highly confident communicators” who enjoyed books, singing and independent play.
The report praised staff for helping children develop independence and healthy habits. Inspectors said children confidently poured drinks at snack time, practised good hygiene independently and learned about healthy eating and oral health.
Ofsted also noted the pre-school’s support for children’s emotional wellbeing. Children were encouraged to express how they felt using “emotion boards” and picture cards to support communication.
Leaders and staff were commended for closely monitoring children’s learning and working with outside specialists, including speech and language therapists and health visitors, to support development. Inspectors said staff were “extremely thorough and consistent” in their approach to inclusion.
The report also described staff as positive role models who taught children kindness, sharing and respect for others. Children were seen inviting classmates to join games and activities both indoors and outside.
Inspectors found the pre-school had an ambitious curriculum and high expectations for all children. However, the report said outdoor learning opportunities were not always planned as precisely as indoor activities and some larger group sessions lacked consistent routines.
Despite these recommendations, inspectors said staff had built warm and caring relationships with children and families, with children showing excitement about attending pre-school and reuniting with friends.
The report concluded: “All children flourish, thrive and progress at the pre-school.” Inspectors added that children built “key skills that will support them on their next stages of development”.
Abbotsham and Alwington Pre-School is registered for 26 children aged between two and four and operates Monday to Friday from 8am until 4pm.
