Play2Learn

What is it like to attend this early years setting?

Staff at this nursery have an exceptional understanding of each child's learning, which they establish from the beginning. They gather extensive information about children to develop an ambitious and well-structured curriculum. Communication and language are central to this curriculum, as many children require additional support in these areas. Staff's teaching is highly effective, leading to rapid speech development among children. They also maintain close partnerships with parents and carers. Parents report that their children are very happy and excited to attend the nursery.

As part of the curriculum, staff are dedicated to fostering independence in all children. For instance, they encourage children to take age-appropriate responsibilities during snack times and mealtimes. Children demonstrate perseverance as they set the tables, sweep the floors and clean surfaces.

Staff consistently reinforce clear expectations for children's behaviour. This helps children to develop a strong sense of kindness and care for others. During group activities, children remind their peers of the nursery's 'golden rules' to keep each other safe. The relationships between staff and children are nurturing and supportive. Together, staff create an inclusive, warm and welcoming environment. As a result, children thrive and flourish. They gain the essential skills that will benefit them in their future education.

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

• The management team is made up of highly experienced individuals who serve as exceptional role models. Managers use their deep understanding of the community to offer children, including those from vulnerable and disadvantaged backgrounds, a wide range of enriching learning experiences. These experiences include opportunities to engage with nature, which many children might not otherwise have.
• Staff's morale is very high. They speak enthusiastically about the strong support they receive for their professional development and well-being. A previous training on multi-sensory approaches has further improved staff's abilities to enhance children's vocabulary, listening and attention skills. The impact of this training is particularly noticeable during group activities, where children enjoy listening, participating and sharing their thoughts with others.
• Staff's interactions with children, including those who are new and less experienced, are of high quality. They use their superb skills to manage children's emotions and adjust their teaching as necessary. For example, during group time, when children become energetic after counting and jumping, staff respond positively to help settle them down. Consequently, children re-engage with their learning without delay.
• Staff's assessments of children's learning are rigorous, allowing a deep understanding of each child's skills. When additional support is needed, staff quickly implement targeted interventions. This leads to rapid and significant progress in children's development. For example, children with limited language skills can now express themselves verbally or use sign language. Children with previous restricted physical abilities demonstrate improved agility and risk-taking skills.
• Staff are exceptionally committed to working with parents. They provide unwavering support to parents so they can meet their children's educational and care needs at home even more effectively. This includes inviting parents to workshops where they learn about child development and the importance of play for children. Parents are extremely happy with all aspects of staff's work.
• Children are highly inquisitive and motivated learners. They enjoy listening to stories and singing nursery rhymes. Older and most-able children recall the sequence of stories and predict what will happen next. They use words, such as 'giant', 'rocket' and 'moon', which demonstrates their extensive vocabulary. Outside, children use their superb imaginations as they engage in a story about a bear. They navigate various obstacles during their adventure, demonstrating their impressive physical skills.
• Staff are very friendly and approachable, which allows them to build strong relationships with children. They embed their expectations clearly into daily practice. As a result, children feel confident, reminding each other about the importance of sitting properly and listening to each other.
• The management team's pursuit of outstanding practice is impressive. Since the last inspection, managers have evaluated the learning environments and created a more homely atmosphere for children. This change has significantly impacted how children start their day and manage transitions.