Lechlade Little Learners, a pre-school located in Wharf Lane, Lechlade, has been rated Outstanding—the highest possible ranking—by Ofsted in its latest inspection. Praised for creating a “carefully planned, inspiring” atmosphere where “all children thrive,” the setting excelled across every category including quality of education, behaviour, personal development, and leadership.
With a current enrolment of 20 children between the ages of two and four, the pre-school has space for 24. Inspectors highlighted how children “achieve exceptionally well” and enjoy “excellent relationships” with staff who consistently display warmth and kindness.
Children at Lechlade Little Learners are described as confident, motivated, and independent learners. Inspectors noted that they are “settled, happy and very confident,” often eager to share their learning experiences with visitors. Staff serve as positive role models, fostering strong social skills, independence, and exemplary behaviour. The children “play exceptionally well together” and are well-prepared to transition smoothly into school.
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Outdoor play is a particular highlight. Children eagerly engage in activities such as climbing, digging, and balancing, demonstrating significant physical development. The carefully designed indoor and outdoor spaces stimulate curiosity and creativity, with children enthusiastically playing musical instruments and joining in lively singing sessions.
A unique feature of the setting is its hands-on approach to understanding the world: children tend to fruit and vegetable plants, feed chickens, collect eggs, and participate in baking activities. Encouraged to explore nature further, they use binoculars to observe birds and insects in the garden.
The dedicated staff team is praised for their enthusiasm and deep understanding of each child’s needs, interests, and abilities. This knowledge informs an exciting, tailored curriculum where staff skillfully balance guided interaction with opportunities for free play. Positive reinforcement builds children’s self-esteem, evidenced by delighted expressions when children accomplish tasks such as dressing themselves independently.
Communication development is prioritized, with staff enhancing language skills through narration, visual cues, basic sign language, books, songs, and rhymes. Early mathematics is integrated seamlessly as children count, problem-solve, and identify numerals, shapes, and sizes during everyday activities.
Inclusivity remains central to the group’s ethos. Staff ensure all children participate fully and provide sensitive support for those managing difficult emotions, involving professionals when necessary.
Leadership is proactive and supportive, with management and committee members committed to continuous improvement. Funding is effectively used to increase staff numbers, enrich resources, and create valuable life experiences, including outings that teach children about money and empathy.
Parents attest to the exceptional quality of care, describing staff as “fantastic, friendly, welcoming, and highly supportive.” They feel well-informed and confident in their children’s progress.
Safeguarding measures are robust, fostering an open, positive culture that prioritizes children’s welfare.
Pre-school manager Hazel Adamson expressed pride in the team’s accomplishment: “We are delighted to receive Outstanding from Ofsted. This reflects our commitment to providing a secure, stimulating environment that nurtures children’s independence, self-worth, and joy in learning.”
Committee chair Claire Stowe added: “The Outstanding rating recognises not only our staff’s skills but also the meticulous planning behind the quality care we offer. As a small charity-run preschool, this achievement is a tremendous boost and source of pride for all involved.”
Previously rated Good in 2019, Lechlade Little Learners now ranks among Gloucestershire’s top early years providers, exemplifying excellence in childcare and education.