Cherry Blossom Preschool

What is it like to attend this early years setting?

Children are cared for by a kind and welcoming staff team at this warm and friendly nursery. Leaders deploy staff well in the setting to ensure good levels of supervision and children's safety. Staff care for children well and aim to provide fun and meaningful experiences for all. Leaders have implemented a curriculum that supports children to make progress in their development. They help staff to understand the curriculum by involving them in planning and observing their practice. They give staff positive feedback on their teaching and give them ideas for how they can develop this further. This enables staff to build on and improve children's experiences.

Children demonstrate independence and take their responsibilities seriously. For example, they confidently sort rubbish into recyclable or non-recyclable and talk about why this is important. They independently recognise their name and safely use scissors and tape dispensers. Younger children are supported to be independent and confidently put on their own coats and find their own shoes. Children are praised for this and respond positively.

Staff support children's behaviour by modelling positive actions and providing frequent, gentle reminders. They respond promptly to children's needs and encourage them to use good manners. As a result, children show kindness and consideration towards one another. They learn to take turns and share resources.

Staff support children's communication and language development. For instance, they consistently use early sign language to support children's understanding. They introduce new language using simple, clear words and support children's understanding through the use of visual aids. Children pick up words rapidly and become confident communicators.

What does the early years setting do well and what does it need to do better?

• Staff have worked hard to build good relationships with parents. Parents are delighted with the support they receive, in particular, parents' evenings, where they receive a full update on the progress their children are making. The setting works well with parents and offers practical ideas to aid them in building on their children's learning.
• All children behave well. They listen attentively during group times. Staff give children gentle reminders about what is expected of them and how to behave. This helps children be polite to each other. For example, when going outside, they remind their friends, 'Please, wait for me.'
• Children are keen to explore the activities on offer. They enjoy rolling and squeezing play dough and making pretend food. Staff spend time interacting with children during their play. For example, they encourage children to help them write a shopping list. Staff ask children questions and narrate what they are doing. However, there are times when staff do not fully extend children's learning, particularly for more capable children. This means that children are not always sufficiently challenged, and as a result, they sometimes disengage in the activities on offer.
• Staff well-being is a priority in the nursery, ensuring a positive and supportive work environment. Leaders hold a daily morning 'huddle', where staff share updates and discuss any concerns. Regular supervision sessions help staff reflect on their practice and access professional development opportunities. Leaders promote a healthy work-life balance and celebrate staff achievements. Staff feel valued and supported, which fosters a strong and effective team.
• Children enjoy their time outside. They mix potions carefully and listen as new language is introduced. They use pipettes to transport the water. This helps to develop their fine motor skills and prepare them for later writing. Staff encourage all children to join in and praise their contributions. This helps to support their confidence and well-being.
• Staff make a dedicated effort to identify and understand each child's needs. They provide strong support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), which is a key strength of the setting. By collaborating closely with parents and other professionals, staff ensure consistent care and actively promote children's development.
• Leaders reflect on the standards of care and learning in the nursery. They know each family well and ensure that the nursery is inclusive. They recognise that some staff may need more support and training. Leaders model how to communicate with children in the setting and act as good role models for newer staff.

What the setting must and should do next

The provider should:

• enhance staff's understanding of how to extend children's learning to the highest level, so that children are sufficiently challenged.