Next Step Nursery

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this early years setting?

The provision is outstanding

Children arrive at the setting and are warmly welcomed by the friendly staff team.

They are extremely eager to see what learning opportunities await them. The manager has precisely considered ways to ensure children master the skills they need to be independent. All children show an extremely strong sense of belonging within the setting.

They understand what is expected of them and are tremendously confident. Children's behaviour is exemplary. They demonstrate high levels of engagement and concentration.

Children develop a secure understanding of mathematics. For instance, as they make shapes with dough..., they intuitively count and talk about the different-sized pieces. Children's views and opinions are respected by staff, who encourage children to share their thoughts.

For instance, staff reflect on the morning with the children, asking them what they have enjoyed. Staff explain to children that we all have different preferences that make us unique and individual.Children flourish in the stimulating learning environment.

They learn about the world around them during their topic, 'Around the world in 80 days'. Children join in the extremely well-planned activities on the celebration of Diwali. For example, they excitedly experiment with clay as they create their own Diya lamps.

They competently use descriptive language to talk about how the clay feels. Children relish taking part in new experiences. They play imaginatively with boxes, giggling as they hide inside them and build huge towers.

Staff implement a highly ambitious curriculum. They expertly consider every opportunity throughout the day to extend and challenge children's thinking. This leads to children making outstanding progress.

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

The manager is an inspiring and passionate leader. She is highly committed to the continuous development of the setting. The manager shares her vision with her competent staff team and, together, they strive for the best outcomes for all children.

The team members have high aspirations for what they want children to learn and provide an exceptional level of teaching across all areas of the curriculum.The manager and staff are highly successful at helping children build an understanding of families, community and diversity. As well as celebrating different festivals, they participate in a wide range of community activities.

For example, they visit the village museum to view the exhibitions. Children learn about different families beyond their own experience. For instance, on international family day, parents are invited in to read to children in their home language and teach children about their culture.

Parent partnerships are exemplary. Parents are regularly welcomed into the setting for 'breakfast mornings'. This provides them with a chance to see the learning that is taking place in the setting and to speak to their child's key person.

Parents are invited on outings with the nursery, helping them to feel included in their child's education. Staff also have strong links with local primary schools and other early years settings.All children receive exceptionally high levels of support.

Staff swiftly identify any gaps in children's learning and development. They go to great lengths to ensure that children reach their full potential. Staff consider the needs of the different age groups they care for and adapt their provision accordingly.

Staff complete specific training to enhance the support that they provide to individual children. They work with other professionals extremely well.Children are eager to sit on the carpet and listen attentively to stories and songs.

The highly trained nursery dog, Dennis, joins them every time. Children stroke him while singing songs, and it is evident how much they adore him. Staff provide a wide range of books for children to access in the unique, colour-coded library.

Children select from non-fiction, fiction and real-life books, helping children to foster a love of reading. Children's communication and language skills develop rapidly.Staff engage children in meaningful conversation to teach them about healthy lifestyles.

For example, when going out for a walk, they explain to children how fresh air is good for their lungs and how walking is good exercise. Children learn where food comes from. They regularly visit the nearby allotment and apple orchard.

Children are involved in collecting the apples that are sent off and turned into juice that is later sold to the families. Children have a comprehensive understanding of the process and enjoy recalling their knowledge.Children have exceptionally positive attitudes.

They show immense pride in their work and are keen to share their creations, such as when they use coloured powder to make Rangoli art. Children develop incredible self-help skills that help to prepare them very well for the next stage in their education. For example, they pour their own drinks and open their lunches independently.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.Staff prioritise the safety and well-being of the children they care for. All staff have a strong understanding of safeguarding.

They are fully aware of what to do if they have a concern about a child and understand the local safeguarding procedures to follow. They complete regular safeguarding training to maintain their understanding of how to recognise possible signs of abuse. The manager has a secure knowledge of recruitment procedures to ensure staff are suitable to work with children.

She monitors their ongoing suitability well. Staff keep children safe on outings through robust procedures and vigorous risk assessment. For example, all children hold on to a rope, and they walk with one staff member at the front and one at the back.