Busy Bees Playgroup in Brockworth, Gloucester, has once again earned a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted, recognized for providing a safe, nurturing environment where children eagerly engage in learning and play.
Located within Castle Hill Primary School, the playgroup serves 27 children aged two to four and has been a cornerstone of the local community since 1980. Operated by a dedicated committee, Busy Bees continues to demonstrate consistent quality and care.
During the inspection on January 30, Ofsted inspectors observed happy children who confidently selected activities from a broad range, supporting their development and readiness for future learning stages. The report emphasized children’s strong language skills, clear understanding of behavioural expectations, and growing independence.
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Highlighting the warmth between staff and children, inspectors praised the strong bonds formed that help children feel safe. Familiar adults maintain consistent routines, encouraging children to make choices and feel secure. Staff were commended for their respectful approach, always seeking children’s consent before attending to personal care and supporting children’s ongoing play preferences.
Children demonstrated enthusiasm, particularly during outdoor activities and song times. The report joyfully described moments like children curling up under a blanket outdoors to read a favourite book, carefully turning pages and eagerly retelling the story of ‘Incy Wincy Spider,’ complete with actions.
Staff actively support children’s problem-solving and early mathematical skills through playful activities. The inspectors noted children eagerly participating in number songs, learning to recite numbers in order, and beginning to grasp simple calculations.
Busy Bees offers a thoughtfully designed curriculum that provides varied experiences for all children. There is strong collaboration among staff, parents, early years professionals, and other settings to ensure consistent care and learning continuity.
Areas for growth were also identified, with inspectors encouraging staff to better support communication and language development. Specifically, they recommended staff ask more open-ended questions and allow children additional time to respond, thus extending their thinking. The use of communication aids during transitions between activities, such as ‘now and then’ boards and visual cues, could be applied more consistently to support understanding and engagement.
Safeguarding procedures were judged effective, with a culture that prioritizes children’s wellbeing. Leadership and management received praise for their clear vision and reflective approach to ongoing curriculum development.
Busy Bees Playgroup operates during term time with morning sessions on Mondays and Fridays and full-day sessions Tuesday through Thursday. Six staff members work with the children, including three qualified to Level 5 and one to Level 3. Parents are actively involved, contributing resources and cultural experiences that enrich children’s learning and connection to the wider community.