Shilbottle Friendly Frog Pre-School

Ofsted rating for Shilbottle Friendly Frog Pre-School

Last inspected 15 July 2025

What it's like to attend

• Children develop a strong sense of belonging at this very warm and friendly setting. They are extremely settled and happy.
• There is a very strong focus on children's emotional development in the curriculum. Staff talk to children about how they feel and greet them each morning in a fun way.
• Staff help children to grow rapidly in independence. They have developed a 'dummy station' to help children to rely less on comforters.
• Staff know children very well. They are very clear about where children are in their development and what they want them to achieve next.
• Children learn about nature, such as they make 'bug hotels' and take part in woodland walks. They plant sunflower seeds and mark national bee day.
• Staff help to instil in children a sense of community. Children visit the local family hub and take pictures and puzzles to share with the village's older residents.
• Staff provide excellent support for children's developing communication. They let children know in advance what they are going to be discussing at circle time.
• Support for children's physical development is outstanding. Staff encourage young children to pull themselves up and 'coast' around furniture.
• Staff plan excellent support for children's mathematical skills. They help children to learn about pattern as they thread coloured cereal hoops in repeating order.
• Partnerships with parents and carers are outstanding. Staff plan informative events to help include parents in their children's learning.
• Leaders and staff are very reflective. They gather views from children and parents to help plan continuous improvement.