Houghton Le Spring Nursery School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 11 February 2025

Leaders and staff are highly ambitious for the children they serve. They have designed a curriculum which is carefully tailored to children's needs. Very well-trained staff guide each child on their journey of progress. Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are supported exceptionally well. Children are well prepared for their next steps in education. Staff have created a learning environment that, in the words of one parent, 'captivates and enchants'. They support children to become more independent and to sustain their concentration. Equally, they learn to manage their feelings and cooperate with others. They play happily together. They have warm and positive relationships with the adults who care for them. Staff plan excellent opportunities for children to widen their experience of the world. Visits to the park and a community farm, as well as learning in a forest area and by the coast, help children develop teamwork skills and build resilience. Parents and carers are typically extremely positive about the education their children receive. One parent, summing up the views of many, stated, 'We feel so very welcome and part of the Houghton family, so very thankful staff place the children's hearts at the centre of all they do.'

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