Knockbreda Nursery School

Overview

Knockbreda Nursery School is a double unit controlled nursery in Belfast, recently refurbished to a "very high standard." The inspection found that the school has a "high level of capacity for sustained improvement" with "very good" outcomes for learners, quality of provision, and leadership.

Strengths

• Children engage in "purposeful play" and attain "very good standards" across the curriculum, interacting confidently with staff and peers.
• Staff create a "stimulating learning environment" that is "richly resourced" both indoors and outdoors.
• Leadership promotes "excellent teamwork" and a "shared vision," with governors supporting staff effectively.
• The nursery maintains "very good links with the parents" and works closely with support agencies and feeder primary schools.
• Children requiring additional support are "very well integrated" and making "very good progress."

Areas to improve

• Reduce the number of play areas to allow staff to engage in "sustained quality interaction" rather than remaining in a supervisory role.
• Ensure writing activities are aligned with the pre-school curriculum, as some are currently "too formal."

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding children "reflect the guidance issued by the Department of Education."