“Staff have high expectations and model positive attitudes to learning”
Staff at Abacus Pre-School in Stoke Gifford, which is celebrating a glowing Ofsted report in June 2025(Image: Abacus)
A pre-school in north Bristol has been given a glowing report following an Ofsted inspection, which found that the children are ‘welcomed warmly’ and the staff provide an ‘ambitious’ curriculum.
The Abacus pre-school in Stoke Gifford has more than 50 children on their roll throughout the week, with children aged between two and five either coming in the mornings, afternoons or all day.
Ofsted inspectors arrived to cast their eye over the pre-school last month, and their report has listed the overall effectiveness as ‘good’, with ratings for the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development and the leadership and management all ranked as ‘good’ too.
The inspection report stated that: “From the moment children arrive, they are welcomed warmly and supported to settle quickly.
“Staff are attentive and responsive, promoting children’s emotional and physical well-being through consistent routines and positive interactions. This nurturing approach supports all children, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), ensuring they feel safe and valued,” the inspector added.
“The curriculum is ambitious and tailored to every child’s needs and interests, especially supporting disadvantaged children and those with SEND. It builds on what children already know and encourages curiosity, independence and resilience.
“Staff have high expectations and model positive attitudes to learning, which children mirror in their enthusiasm and engagement. As a result, children are motivated and make meaningful progress across all areas of learning, well prepared for the next stage of their education,” she added.
Abacus Stoke Gifford is part of the Learning Through Play chain, and manager Jess said all the staff were keen that no child falls behind.
“We are incredibly proud of the ‘home away from home’ setting, where we nurture and support each child as individuals,” she said.
“Offering free flow play and ensuring all children are given the opportunity to be outside, teaching all areas of the early years foundation stage and promoting a community feel, the staff are motivated and self-reflective on their practice to ensure no child falls behind,” she said.
“Building positive relationships with parents, to promote healthy foundations throughout child’s early years development,” she added.