Children make 'excellent progress' and 'behave very well' at Leeds nursery - Ofsted report

Children make “excellent progress” at a nursery in north Leeds, according to Ofsted inspectors.

Cub Headingley, located on Shire Oak Road, Headingley, received a ‘Strong standard’ rating in all six inspected categories, during an Ofsted visit on August 11 this year.

Inspectors adjudged the school to have reached the standard in the areas of achievement, behaviour, attitudes and establishing routines, children's welfare and wellbeing, curriculum and teaching, inclusion and leadership and governance.

This was the nursery’s first full inspection since opening earlier this year.

“All children make excellent progress from what they know and can already do,” the education watchdog said. “They develop an early love of books. This is demonstrated through them sharing books with staff throughout the day.

“Children behave very well throughout the setting. Leaders ensure that staff provide consistently effective support and guidance. This helps children to develop positive attitudes towards learning and others.”

Leaders have a clear ethos of supporting and guiding parents, offering advice when needed to promote security and consistency for children, according to the report.

They work together effectively to plan an ambitious curriculum that “inspires children through rich experiences,” exciting themes and enthusiastic teaching.

Children have access to outdoor play where they explore climbing, running and taking risks in a controlled way. This helps children become resilient, confident learners.

Staff are ”nurturing and responsive,” supporting children's development and guiding their learning. The on-site chef works closely with parents to provide healthy meals that meet children's individual needs.

Inspectors added: “Leaders and staff identify children's individual needs quickly through assessments and daily observations. Regular progress checks are promptly completed.

“These reasonable adjustments help children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), disadvantaged children and those facing other challenges to take part fully in learning and routines alongside their peers.”

Leaders respond promptly to non-attendance, according to the report. For instance, they promote the importance of regular attendance with families from the home visit onwards. This ensures that parents understand the attendance policy.

They are “passionate, committed and dedicated” to their roles and set very high expectations that promote high-quality care and education.

Focusing on potential next steps, inspectors concluded that leaders should “maintain their high standards” and build on existing successes so that the highly effective support provided results in a transformational impact on children's wellbeing, achievement and independence.