Why Bexley Bears Preschool’s “Good” Ofsted Rating Matters for Parents in Bexleyheath

Choosing the right preschool is a big decision for any parent. You want a setting where your child will be safe, supported, happy and well prepared for their next stage of learning. For families in Bexleyheath and the surrounding area, Bexley Bears Preschool’s latest Ofsted inspection rating of “Good” offers clear reassurance that this is the kind of place parents can trust. 

In this blog we’ll explore what the rating means, how the preschool supports children’s development, and why so many local families feel confident entrusting their little ones to the Bexley Bears team.

What the “Good” Ofsted Rating Means

Ofsted (the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills) inspects early years settings against a range of criteria — from quality of education and leadership to safeguarding and personal development. A “Good” rating reflects consistently strong performance across these areas and shows that children are thriving in their environment.

Inspectors noted that:

Children arrive happy and settle quickly into activities.

The curriculum is broad and ambitious, engaging children in meaningful play and learning.

Staff support children to develop positive relationships and independence.

Inclusive practice is a strength, especially support for children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) and those with English as an Additional Language (EAL).

Safeguarding arrangements are effective and children’s wellbeing is prioritised.

This confirms what many parents already know — that Bexley Bears is a nurturing place where children feel safe, secure and excited about learning.

How Bexley Bears Supports Children’s Learning and Development

At Bexley Bears, learning is grounded in play, curiosity and exploration — all essential ingredients of early childhood development. The team understands that children learn best when they feel confident to try new things and are encouraged in ways that build independence.

For example:

Children pour their own drinks and serve fruit at snack time, helping build fine motor skills and self-confidence.

Choice is central, with children empowered to select activities that interest them.

Tidy-up routines and small responsibilities help develop a sense of contribution and teamwork.

These everyday experiences support children’s self-esteem and readiness for school while making the preschool day fun and purposeful.

Partnership with Parents: A Key Strength

One of the things parents consistently highlight about Bexley Bears is the strong partnership between home and preschool. Staff believe that parents are a child’s first and most important educators, so they work closely with families to support children’s progress.

Communication is open and regular, helping parents stay informed about their child’s routines, achievements and next steps. Whether it’s through daily conversations, online journals or scheduled discussions, staff keep parents involved and engaged. This partnership also extends to supporting transitions — into the setting initially, and later to primary school — with care and thoughtful planning.

Such collaboration means parents feel valued and heard, which in turn supports better outcomes for children.

Inclusive Practice for Every Child

Inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword at Bexley Bears — it’s part of how the preschool works every day. The team tailors activities and support so that every child, regardless of ability or background, can take part fully and flourish.

Children with SEND receive thoughtful adaptations, and parents of these children often praise the way staff tailor learning to meet specific needs. Likewise, children who speak English as an additional language benefit from support that helps them communicate confidently, including learning familiar words in their home language to build understanding and security.

This inclusive approach helps all children feel valued, boosts confidence and reflects the diverse community the preschool serves.

Health, Hygiene and Habits for Life

Bexley Bears also places importance on healthy routines. Good hygiene practices — like regular handwashing — are part of the daily rhythm, and staff engage children in simple discussions about nutritious choices and caring for their bodies. There is even support for good oral health through conversations and visits, helping children establish positive habits early on.

These routines align with Ofsted’s expectations and contribute to children’s wellbeing and independence. Healthy habits learned at preschool carry through into daily life at home and school.

Free Funded Childcare: Making Quality Early Years Accessible

Families often ask about childcare funding, and Bexley Bears can help parents navigate their options. The preschool accepts funded early education places, including:

• Universal 15 hours for all eligible 3 and 4-year-olds.
• Additional 15 hours for working families (up to 30 hours total).
• Funded places for eligible 2-year-olds.

The team is always happy to guide parents through eligibility and how to make the most of funded hours, ensuring children get the rich early years experience they deserve.

A Welcoming Visit Makes All the Difference

For many families, booking a visit is the first step towards choosing a preschool that feels right. A visit lets you meet the staff, see the environment in action, and get a feel for how your child would settle and learn. It’s also a great opportunity to ask questions about routines, inclusion, funding and how the team supports confident, independent learners.

To book a visit or find out more, contact Bexley Bears Preschool today — and take the next step in your child’s early learning journey.