Dream Catchers playschool in Cosham has been rated “Good” by OFSTED inspectors, marking an improvement from its previous “Requires improvement” rating following an inspection in July.
The early years setting on St. Colmans Avenue received positive ratings across all areas, with inspectors praising the enthusiastic staff and supportive learning environment for children aged one to five.
Inspector Hayley Doncom noted that children “feel safe and secure in the setting” and highlighted how staff effectively support communication and language development. The report praised the playschool’s work with children who have special educational needs and disabilities, describing them as “particularly well supported.”
The inspection found that children understand and follow the setting’s “golden rules,” including using “kind hands” and finding solutions when sharing toys. Staff were commended for maintaining consistent expectations for behaviour, creating a “calm and respectful environment.”
Manager and senior leaders were recognised for implementing improvements to learning environments since the previous inspection, with inspectors noting a “positive impact on how all children engage in learning experiences.”
The report highlighted the setting’s use of music in learning, stating it has a “positive impact on children’s communication and language, early literacy skills and their overall enjoyment and well-being.” Children were observed enthusiastically participating in “Music and Movement” sessions.
However, inspectors identified areas for improvement, recommending that staff supervisions focus more on professional development opportunities and that staff respond more swiftly to young children’s non-verbal cues.
- Portsmouth University Study to Examine Vietnam’s Plastic Waste Policy
- Pennywell Early Years Centre Achieves Outstanding Ofsted Rating
The playschool, which registered in 2023, employs six staff members, four of whom hold appropriate early years qualifications. It operates from 7.30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday during term time, providing funded early education for two, three and four-year-old children.
Dream Catchers childcare serves 47 children across 32 places and works closely with other professionals and local schools to support children’s transition to their next educational stage.
The setting’s safeguarding arrangements were deemed effective, with inspectors noting an “open and positive culture around safeguarding that puts children’s interests first.”
