STAFF at a nursery in Orford were praised for their ability to form ‘close relationships’ with the children who attend their setting and make them feel ‘at ease’, according to an official report.

Cherry Tree Nursery School on Orford Lane received an inspection from education regulators, Ofsted in February 21, which followed with a positive outcome with a rating of good.

Inspectors observed how the staff knew each child well and held ‘strong’ interactions with them.

“Staff know the children very well. This enables them to provide activities and experiences that reflect children's interests.

“Interactions between staff and children are strong. Staff model language, and promote new vocabulary through play. For example, when making play dough, children learn they are using 'measuring scoops'.

“Staff introduce mathematical concepts such as big, small, and heavy when comparing the weight of materials. Younger children enjoy joining in with songs and rhymes.”

The report stated that staff have ‘high expectations’ of the behaviour and attitudes of the children who attend.

“Children learn about behavioural expectations through discussion and modelling. Staff ask children to think about how they would feel if things happened to them. This teaches children about respect and empathy for others.”

The report highlighted that leaders at the nursery aim to build ‘achievable’ and ‘measurable’ goals for the children and that the learning process is ‘individual to each child’. But in turn it was stated that the curriculum is ‘in its infancy’ and children sometimes miss ‘available learning opportunities’.

A focus on outdoor learning was also highlighted within the report.

“Children access the outdoors for a large portion of the day, which encourages their physical development. Natural surroundings encourage the children to explore seasonal changes.”

“Leaders and staff promote children's physical health and well-being. Rooms have easy access to the outdoors to facilitate free-flow play.

“Children engage in weekly physical education sessions, where they practise yoga, running and jumping to develop their large muscles. Thereby promoting children's physical health and well-being.”

Senior staff at the setting were praised for the examples they set at the nursery.

“They show passion and commitment to their work, which cascades through to the staff. Leaders support staff well-being.

“They are committed to reducing unnecessary paperwork to help staff manage their workload. Staff are able to devote their time to really getting to know their key children. As such, they have a better understanding of the children's development, meaning children's needs are met.”

Lastly it is stated that parents are ‘happy with the care and education provided’ at Cherry Tree Nursery.

“Partnership with parents is of a high standard and parents are happy with the care and education provided. Staff share ideas and tips to support development at home, including toilet training ideas and examples of healthy recipes.

“Parents are kept up to date with their child's learning and what they are doing in nursery. Consequently, children are able to talk about their learning at home and further consolidate their new skills.”