Little Learners

What is it like to attend this early years setting?

Children are thrilled to come to nursery. They come running through the door and are warmly welcomed by staff. Children are challenged by an interesting and thoughtful curriculum. Staff place a particular importance on children's growing understanding of more complex mathematical concepts. For example, when a ball is cut in half, staff teach children that this is 'two halves' and they make a 'whole'. Children are extremely well prepared for the next stages in their learning and transitions. For example, staff transform the home corner into a school to help children to become ready for school. They arrange for teachers from local schools to come and visit children in the nursery.

Staff have very high expectations of children's behaviour. Older children are very conscious of their movements and interactions around the younger children. Staff expertly manage conflicts within the setting. Children learn to manage their conflicts independently. For example, when children want the same toy, staff encourage them to manage this between themselves to reach a fair resolution.

Staff encourage children to build strong links within the local community. For example, children take part in charity events and help to fundraise for different causes, such as a local guide dog charity. This helps children to develop a sense of belonging and value different members of society. There are ample opportunities for children to learn a range of skills outdoors in the garden, such as climbing, running and jumping. Children take careful risks that support their self-awareness and confidence.

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

• The manager leads the team with passion and pride. Staff's morale is high with a shared view to provide children with high-quality care and education. Staff are motivated to continue their professional development. They regularly attend mandatory training. Leaders offer staff supervision sessions and appraisals, which help to identify their training needs. Staff attend courses in subjects of particular interest, such as related to supporting children with special educational needs and/or disabilities further. Staff are reflective in their practice and show a strong desire to strive for excellent practice every day.
• There is a strong sense of team working within the nursery. Staff are excellent role models for children. They are kind and respectful to each other. This is reflected in the way that children interact among themselves. For example, they say please and thank you without prompting. Children also share and play together beautifully.
• Staff enrich children's communication skills extremely well. For example, when children are involved in an activity learning about the continents, they share their ideas about the places they have visited. For example, they state that 'giraffes live in Africa'. Staff are extremely responsive to children and ask appropriate questions, to further enhance their learning. Children remain engaged for extended periods of time.
• Children demonstrate a love of books, stories and singing. Staff ensure that they provide an abundance of books and materials that celebrate different languages, festivals and cultures. Parents are invited to share their celebrations with children. Children recall these memories fondly. For example, children excitedly speak about when their parents came into nursery to make Diwali cards.
• Parents speak very highly of the nursery. They believe their children have made rapid progress in all areas of their learning. Staff form strong bonds with parents. They share photos, their observations and provide clear verbal feedback. Communication is consistent and frequent. Parents are delighted with the bonds their children form with staff.
• There is a strong purpose within the nursery to prepare children for the future. For example, children use real china, cutlery and glasses during mealtimes. Children are very careful when putting things away and getting them out. Through gentle guidance, staff teach children to respect the belongings within the nursery from an early age.
• Leaders are proactive in supporting children to make healthy choices. Children grow fruit and vegetables in the nursery garden. These are used in the tasty meals and snacks that children have. Children are encouraged to try a range of food from different cuisines.
• Children learn to be independent from a very early age. They take responsibility for their personal belongings and their self care routines. For example, staff expertly guide young children as they learn to wash their hands. Children demonstrate a sense of pride as they look after themselves.