A pre-school has been praised for delivering a “warm, welcoming and nurturing” environment where children feel safe and eager to learn.
Kennet Valley Caterpillars, based at the Holybrook Centre in Calcot, was inspected by Ofsted on March 11, with inspectors rating the setting as meeting the “expected standard” in several areas, and a “strong standard” for behaviour and inclusion.
The nursery, which provides care for children aged two to four, was particularly commended for its strong safeguarding, positive behaviour, and inclusive culture.
The inspector, described the pre-school as a place where children “experience a warm, welcoming and nurturing environment where they feel safe, valued and supported to explore and learn.”
Staff were praised for building caring and trusting relationships with the children.
The report said: “From the moment they arrive, most children separate confidently from their parents and carers and quickly settle into play, showing that they feel secure and familiar with the routines.
“Staff build positive and caring relationships with children, helping them to feel a sense of belonging.”
The report highlighted the nursery’s inclusive approach, noting that children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are well supported and able to make progress alongside their peers.
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Staff were found to use their understanding of child development and regular observation to identify children who may need extra help, implementing tailored support plans and targeted interventions.
The pre-school’s leadership was commended for working proactively with families and external professionals such as speech and language therapists and educational psychologists.
The report stated: “Support plans are reviewed regularly to ensure strategies remain effective and responsive to children’s changing needs.”
Children were observed enjoying a range of sensory and imaginative activities, from pretending to visit the beach in cardboard boxes to role-playing as a pizza chef.
Sensory play with oats and lentils helped them develop early mathematical language and fine motor skills.
Personal, social, and emotional development were also noted as strengths, with children showing confidence to make choices about their play and demonstrating increasing independence in tasks such as putting on coats and tidying up.
Children demonstrated consistent positive behaviour, responding positively to gentle reminders and consistently showing kindness, sharing, and cooperation.
Staff were recognised as positive role models, and children were seen forming warm, trusting relationships with adults and peers.
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While the indoor environment was praised for supporting learning, the report noted that the outdoor space could be further developed.
Inspectors suggested that more planning for purposeful outdoor activities would benefit children who thrive in active, outdoor environments.
Leadership and governance were rated as meeting the expected standard.
The report highlighted “a welcoming and inclusive environment” and a focus on staff professional development.
Staff described feeling “well supported” through regular guidance and discussions about their practice.
Kennet Valley Caterpillars is registered under Caterpillar Preschools Limited.
