The preschool, situated in Greenways, Southend, prides itself on ensuring every child forms new relationships, explores new experiences, and grows in confidence. It was hailed by Ofsted as an “extremely vibrant, engaging and inviting” setting to all of the children.
As Ofsted observed the quality of teaching, carried out observations with the manager, and spoke to staff, children and parents, they found the leadership to be “inspirational” with staff who are “exceptionally driven to extend children’s achievements in all areas.”
The inspection report praised many aspects of the preschool’s provision, including the vibrant and engaging learning environment; the wealth of outdoor learning experiences; and the staff team’s exceptional relationships and partnerships with parents, other professionals and schools, which helps them work effectively together.
The report highlighted how well children’s independence is promoted, noting how children confidently prepare and serve themselves snacks and discuss the healthy items in their lunchboxes. The report identified the staff as greatly respectful of children’s ideas and efforts. “Children demonstrate a strong can-do attitude towards their learning and delight in exploring the nearby woodland, sharing their exciting discoveries with staff.”
The Trinket Box Preschool, which has been running since 1999, is a registered charity and operates from a purpose-built building on the site of the Federation of Greenways schools.
The report’s summary of key findings for children are:
Effectiveness of the leadership and management: Outstanding
Quality of teaching, learning and assessing: Outstanding
Personal development, behaviour and welfare: Outstanding
Outcomes for children: Outstanding
Annabel Topley, Manager of The Trinket Box said: “I would like to thank our exceptionally dedicated team for their ongoing hard work. Their relentless enthusiasm is proactive in creating a rich, safe and engaging environment for all our children.”
Sam Steel, Chair of the committee, added: “I would like to congratulate the management and staff at The Trinket Box for this Outstanding rating from Ofsted. We see their tireless work and wholeheartedly agree with Ofsted’s findings. We are proud to have The Trinket Box as a true asset to local families.”