Chapel Street Nursery School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 4 May 2023

Children settle quickly when they arrive here. Sessions get off to a happy start with welcome songs. This helps children to feel part of the school family. Staff are friendly and caring. They encourage everyone to join in. Children feel safe because they know and understand the clear, consistent routines and expectations. Adults frequently model and explain the school values, such as bravery and helpfulness. They give plenty of praise and encouragement to children who show these values in their own behaviour, for example by sharing kindly. Adults pay close attention to what children know and can do. In small groups, children are helped to learn new skills. Children learn to listen carefully and how to use new words. They are confident to ask questions in these small groups. They join in enthusiastically with their favourite stories. Children have time to follow their interests and make choices with increasing independence. Adults encourage them to 'have a go', and to try new things, such a tasting fruits and woodwork. Children enjoy their time outside exploring nature. They use magnifying glasses to study mini beasts and learn about plants. They concentrate well on these practical tasks.

What the school should improve

• Much of the curriculum has been introduced recently. Leaders have not completely identified the most important knowledge and how this is to be learned in continuous provision and taught sessions. In a few subjects, activities are not consistently well matched to what pupils need to learn next. As a result, some pupils develop gaps in their learning or misconceptions. Leaders should ensure that all adults are clear about what pupils are to learn and how this will be put achieved.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)