Noddy's Nursery School

What is it like to attend this early years setting?

Children have an incredible start to their early education, spending every moment deeply engaged in meaningful learning experiences. Children of all ages develop a love of reading as they access dedicated reading spaces. They independently climb stairs to reach a cosy balcony that ignites their imagination. Adults are exceptional role models, teaching children how to be kind and respectful. As a result, children's behaviour is exemplary. The highly skilled adults model language eloquently and engage children in conversations using complex words. They discuss carbohydrates, protein and healthy foods during a language-rich lunchtime.

The curriculum provides endless opportunities for children to experience awe and wonder. Babies and toddlers are fascinated by engaging sensory experiences, while older children experiment, making volcanos. Children engage in quality physical activities through sports, music and ballet sessions. Regular local walks teach children about changing seasons, while developing an understanding of their local community. Children are at the centre of everything the nursery does. Adults have the highest expectations for all children and encourage their uniqueness and character. Adults are highly attuned to supporting children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). As a result, these children receive high-quality education and make exceptional progress.

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

• Leaders have created a curriculum that centres around the individual child. Adults are highly skilled at creating an environment that sparks children's natural curiosity and provides a wealth of well-planned experiences. These keep children highly engaged and focused. Adult's teaching skills are exemplary. They skilfully sequence the curriculum so that children can build on their knowledge. For example, during an interactive story time, children use rich vocabulary to explain their experiences.
• Children are immersed in the engaging activities provided by the adults. Toddlers are captivated by natural resources as they independently make sensory bags. They wait patiently, take turns and respectfully ask others for materials. Adults act as incredible role models and reinforce expectations with the children. Consequently, even the youngest children regulate their behaviour and display impeccable manners.
• All children form secure attachments with the nurturing adults. The inclusive environment ensures that children settle rapidly. Adults know children exceptionally well. They spend time meticulously planning activities to ensure that children meet individual milestones. Children with SEND show they are thriving and feel secure. Adults provide designated spaces in the environment and adapt all activities. They work closely with professionals to ensure that children with SEND make extraordinary steps in their development.
• Children's communication and language skills are flourishing. Adults show a deep understanding of how to further children's communication, ensuring that they are exposed to new and repeated words consistently. As a result, children develop a wide vocabulary. Mathematics is embedded throughout the curriculum. Children develop a deep understanding of numbers, learning the 'number of the week'. They use critical thinking skills to take part in a focused treasure hunt activity, using mathematical language to compare numbers they notice in the environment.
• Parent partnerships are strong and well established. Parents speak extremely highly of the setting and cannot praise the attentive and knowledgeable staff enough. They comment on the successful settling-in process and how brilliantly the nursery supports them with their children's development. Communication is highly effective. Parents have access to regular feedback and information on how to extend learning at home. Staff prioritise getting to know families well. As a result, they know how to support and meet children's individual needs successfully.
• Leaders place a huge emphasis on staff well-being. They have invested in the team through extensive, highly effective training. This supports staff in implementing the ambitious curriculum. Leaders show a deep understanding of issues that may affect their team, and offer targeted support. Staff consistently highlight the incredible guidance and support they receive. The results of this are evident through their fantastic practice.
• Leaders are inspirational. They are actively involved in guiding and modelling outstanding practice. They keep children at the heart of everything they do and lead by example. Leaders have clear ambitions for the future. They are committed to supporting staff progression and are passionate about the work they do. As a result, the quality of care and education at the nursery is exceptional.