Stonehill Nursery School

Overview

Stonehill Nursery School has taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection. The report describes a "friendly and diverse" setting where relationships are nurtured and children are "happy and well cared for." Staff support children’s personal, social and emotional development, helping them build independence and manage their behaviour effectively.

Strengths

• Children settle quickly and learn routines, developing independence in self-care skills such as putting on coats.
• Staff model expectations clearly, helping children make "rapid progress with their personal, social and emotional skills."
• The curriculum prioritises communication and language, using songs, rhymes, and carefully mapped books to foster a "love of reading."
• Strong relationships with families are established through community events and regular communication about progress.
• The governing body asks "pertinent questions" to ensure the school’s vision is realised, while staff benefit from professional development.

Areas to improve

• Ensure activities align closely with children’s stage of development so they secure an appropriate understanding of the curriculum.
• Refine the approach to teaching vocabulary, ensuring it builds on prior knowledge and prepares children adequately for Reception Year.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.