Olney Pre-School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents

This provision is outstanding • Staff encourage parents' active involvement in the setting.

Many join the committee team and have direct responsibility for leading the group. This affirms the pre-school's position in the heart of the community. • The highly qualified manager leads the pre-school with authority and the highest ambition.

She critically evaluates the effectiveness of the pre-school, making ongoing changes where needed. Staff are forward thinking and ready to embrace changes to sustain the excellent quality of the pre-school. • The quality of teaching is excellent.

Staff provide fast-paced, adult-led activities that suit the needs of all children. T...hey skilfully differentiate activities to ensure that children of all ages and abilities have enough challenge to sustain their interest and stimulate their development. • In the garden, children excitedly go on a bug hunt.

Using their tick lists, they investigate what creatures live in the pre-school garden. When they find slugs, snails and worms, staff expand on their knowledge by explaining that some creatures enjoy the wet weather, so they are more likely to be seen after the rain. • Staff read familiar stories to children.

They further engage children's interest in books by using props to bring the story to life. • Children's behaviour is excellent, and they demonstrate a strong sense of belonging at the pre-school and close attachment to their key person. Children have high self-esteem and are confident as they play and learn.