Busy Bees Day Nursery at St Albans Hospital

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings for parents

This provision is outstanding • The management team rigorously tests and evaluates every aspect of practice within the nursery to ensure an exceptionally good experience for children. The manager closely examines the effectiveness of all resources, activities, communication and training, and has inspired staff to follow her example. • Staff contribute ideas to planning and actively increase the range of inspirational activities that interest and challenge children of all ages.

For example, staff drill holes in plastic plates, through which young children weave straws to replicate how worms move. Staff help older children investigate which ingredients make pretend volcanoes erupt ...the most lava. • Each child has a key person who checks their progress meticulously.

They plan precisely to ensure all children, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, make excellent progress from their starting points. • Parents say staff work superbly with them to meet their children's learning and care needs exceptionally well. Parents are delighted with the nursery and appreciate that their views are welcomed and valued.

• Staff teach children communication and language skills expertly, making excellent use of conversation with children during every activity. Staff constantly model clear speaking and careful listening. They know exactly when to repeat or extend what children say.

• Staff's high expectations, nurturing manner and well-established routines support children's excellent behaviour. • Children, including babies, develop physical skills through a very well-targeted range of activities to develop their large and small muscles. Staff take children to enjoy the large open spaces in the park located in the grounds.