Ofsted report (exerpts) on The Childrens House,

Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

The provision is outstanding.

Children are extremely happy, relaxed and really enjoy the time they spend at the nursery. They are involved in an comprehensive range of worthwhile play opportunities that help them to make excellent progress in their development. They eagerly participate in an excellent range of life experiences such as cleaning mirrors and plants, mending books, sewing and loading the washing machine, helping them to learn important life skills. Children are extremely independent and choose what they would like to do. They are very familiar with the routines at the nursery, and eagerly help with jobs such as feeding the fish or setting up for lunch.

The environment is very calm and relaxed. Staff use soft tones in their voices and this results in a tranquil atmosphere as children engross themselves in what they are doing, asking for help if they need it. They are very self sufficient, for example if they get sand on the floor, they get the dustpan to sweep it up with, or as they decide when they have finished an activity, they put it back where they found it as well as considering the next user, by setting it up ready for them.

Children have access to good quality, stimulating toys and everyday household items that provide excellent balance and challenge. Children are very considerate of each other's needs and play quietly if someone is sleeping, or wait for their friends to become ready to participate if they are busy doing something else. Children are very interested in the activities available and spend long amounts of time concentrating on self-chosen activities such as balancing on the line or tacking shapes into cork.

Children relate extremely well to staff and to each other.  They confidently approach staff for support if they need it, indicating secure and trusting relationships are built. Staff have an exceptional knowledge of each child and where they are at developmentally, helping them to progress in all areas of development. The manager has a secure knowledge of the Foundation Stage and the Birth to three matters framework and is a qualified Montessori teacher. Staff have attended numerous courses, helping children to benefit from their skills and experience.