Inskip Nursery

What is it like to attend this early years setting?

Children arrive happy and keen to start their day at this very welcoming nursery. They are warmly greeted by enthusiastic staff. Children confidently head off to explore the safe, spacious and well-resourced environment. They lead their own play and broaden their imagination, inspired by a wide range of interesting objects. Children delight in what they achieve. Staff know well the unique needs and character of each child. They closely monitor the children's progress and carefully plan ambitious next steps. All children thrive whatever their starting point. They are prepared well for their future learning.

Children's communication skills are a top priority. Staff speak clearly and interactions are of a high quality. Staff engage children in rich conversations as they play. They also read stories with much expression, using their voice to reflect the personalities of the characters. This helps captivate the children and promote a love of books. There are also weekly Spanish sessions to help further an interest in language. Staff model expectations of behaviour. Children take turns and offer support to their peers. For example, children help each other to dress ready for outdoor play. Children's self-esteem is promoted by regular praise and emotional support.

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

• The manager is highly motived and ambitious. She works closely with her dedicated team. Procedures for settling children in, transitions to their next stage in learning and ongoing assessment are highly effective. Staff have a clear understanding of the learning needs of each child at the nursery.
• Mathematical development is a strength. Staff pick up on teaching opportunities to help further children's understanding of early concepts. For example, when using their imagination to search for pirate treasure, children are encouraged to count in ones and twos. They also add one more and match the number of coins they find to the written number.
• The nursery follows The Curiosity Approach ethos. Children become engrossed and persevere with their chosen activities. For example, children sit safely using scissors to cut through a range of various papers. They find more materials to cut, including card, feathers, foam and felt shapes. This allows them to build on what they already know and can do.
• Staff are aware of the importance of communication for children's further development. They support a love of books and model language well. However, staff do not always give children enough time and space to respond after asking them questions. Therefore, children do not always develop their critical thinking to the highest level.
• Staff and families have developed strong partnerships. This impacts hugely on all children, especially those with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Parents explain how they would not hesitate in recommending the nursery. They find all staff very approachable and find online updates extremely informative. Regular 'stay and play' sessions are popular with parents.
• Children's behaviour is extremely good. They know what is expected of them and play well together. Children are reminded to say 'please' and 'thank you'. They are confident and independent. Children pour drinks, put on coats and wash their own hands. This supports children to develop their independence.
• Children's physical development and health are well supported. Children enjoy running outdoors, riding bikes and practising yoga. However, staff do not make best use of the grassed outdoor space to extend children's learning further. Therefore, children's well-being, understanding of nature and creative imagination are not always supported to their full potential. Children eat a healthy diet, with allergy and medical needs being met well.
• Staff speak to children about their emotions. For example, when reading 'Little Red Riding Hood' children talk of animals they are scared of. Staff extend this by asking who the children would turn to for help. Staff support children's emotional well-being further within the daily routine. For example, opera music at lunchtime provides a calming atmosphere.
• Staff report how they feel their well-being is high on the agenda at the nursery. As well as their recent appraisals to discuss their professional development, they feel continually listened to and valued by the manager.

What the setting must and should do next

The provider should:

• continue with ambitious plans to enhance the outdoor environment to further extend children's learning to the highest level
• support staff to give children time and space to respond after asking them questions, to help children develop their critical thinking skills to the highest level.