Maids Moreton Preschool Playgroup Report for Annual Village Meeting
from Jane Wood, member of parent committee
Events
The Preschool currently has 34 children on roll, between the ages of 2½ and 4.
The Preschool has held numerous events through the year which have been well supported, including a quiz night, a raffle and participation in the Easter and summer events at the school next door. Children made a scarecrow for the village scarecrow trail, have grown their own fruit and vegetables, and took part in the Buckingham Christmas Parade, all dressed as reindeers. It was a very wet day and they all got absolutely drenched but lasted the whole course and were commended for their valiant efforts. Children were thrilled when Santa attended their Christmas party and thanks are due to Malcolm Beck for making it so. A musician has been visiting regularly to do wonderful singing and music-making sessions with the children, and their excitement and enthusiasm about this is fantastic. If you hear a chorus of ‘Ungalaga, ungalaga, ungalaga BOOM’ as you pass, you’ll know it must be music day!
The Preschool had an Ofsted inspection in January. We’re delighted to report that the nursery education was judged as “Outstanding”. The inspector was particularly impressed by the children’s behaviour, and the inspirational teaching:
“Children’s ability to relate to others is exceptional … they are happy, contented and extremely confident and self-assured … The quality of teaching is outstanding. Children are captivated and greatly inspired … group story-time is truly awe-inspiring … children’s sense of discovery is exceptionally well supported … children’s behaviour is exemplary … children are extremely polite, well-mannered and show care and concern for one another. … Children’s care is significantly enhanced by the exceptional quality of the leadership and management of the setting.”
The committee is very proud of the Preschool’s achievement in earning this wonderful report. Sincere congratulations to the dedicated staff and to all the children.
The Preschool has been awarded a grant of £1000 from AVDC’s Community Chest fund, to spend on a greenhouse, gardening equipment and tools, and to support activities that create links with other community groups. With the support of the village Conservation Group, the children are raising wildflower plants to be planted in Scotts Lane. They are also growing fruit, vegetables and flowers to develop a wildlife-friendly sensory garden at the Preschool.
Looking to the future, the fabric of the Preschool terrapin building is beginning to give some concern and the committee will have the challenge of raising funds to replace or repair the building in due course. As a small charity, the Preschool has very limited funds so any offers of help in assessing the condition of the present building would be much appreciated. The committee anticipates having to do large-scale fundraising once plans have been made for the refurbishment or replacement of the building, and we hope we will be able to look to the village to support this in whatever ways possible when the time comes.
|
