Sir James Knott Memorial Nursery School

Overview

Sir James Knott Memorial Nursery School is described as a "welcoming place to learn" where staff are committed to children’s learning and well-being. The report confirms the school continues to be good, noting that children are "safe and happy" and well prepared for the next stage of their education.

Strengths

• The curriculum is "ambitious," encouraging curiosity and widening children’s understanding of the world through activities like exploring local parks and learning about different cultures.
• Staff are "very skilled at involving children in reading," using stories, songs, and rhythm to help children learn how letters and words sound.
• Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities have their needs met well, accessing the same learning opportunities as their peers with additional support.
• Leaders provide strong support for staff workload and well-being, and are reviewing assessment practices to allow more time for direct interaction with children.
• Personal development is fostered effectively, with children demonstrating the school’s motto of being "resilient, reflective, respectful."

Areas to improve

• Some adults are less effective than others at developing children’s language skills, meaning some children do not receive the help they need.
• Leaders should ensure all adults are effectively trained in how best to develop children’s language skills to help build vocabulary better over time.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with a "strong culture of safeguarding" where leaders prioritise safety, staff are well trained to identify concerns, and thorough checks are carried out on adults working at the school.