Chichester Nursery School, Chichester

What is it like to attend this school?

Children delight in the time they spend at this busy, happy nursery school. Caring staff provide support to help children play and learn well. Staff know each child and their needs. Expectations are high. Assistance is offered at just the right time so that children build resilience but are not overwhelmed. For example, children rolling tyres up a hill are encouraged to have a go but offered help if they struggle. This means everyone can join in with counting to three at the top before experiencing the joy and excitement of releasing the tyres to roll back down.

Right from the start, children are taught to be kind and considerate. Staff model this behaviour and offer praise when children share and include others. The nursery is generally a harmonious place where children feel safe. They get along well together and behave well. Children learn to express their preferences, whether choosing fruit at snack time or selecting activities. They are gently encouraged to try new things when they are ready.

What does the school do well and what does it need to do better?

The school has devised a broad, engaging and meaningful curriculum. Children benefit from opportunities to explore, experiment and discover across all areas of learning. Resources and activities are carefully selected, which enthral and excite children. This helps ensure that all children are well prepared for the next phases of their education.

Highly effective support from adults helps children to sustain concentration for ever-growing lengths of time to help develop their play, language and thinking. Staff regularly check and consider what each child knows and can do. This helps them to identify the next steps each child needs to make. Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) have their needs carefully identified and supported so that they are fully included and successful.

Leadership & management.

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