Little Hayes Nursery School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 June 2026

Little Hayes is a welcoming, homely and nurturing environment for children to learn in. They feel safe and secure. Relationships throughout the setting and within the diverse community are highly positive. Staff forge close, trusting bonds with both children and their parents and carers quickly. As a result, both children and families experience a deep sense of belonging within the setting. Children develop a love of learning through experiencing a wide range of interesting activities that build upon their prior learning. They typically attend well. Children relish the opportunities to take their learning beyond the classroom into the spacious and well-organised outdoor environment. Here, they enjoy looking for insects and discussing their habitats. Many children develop positive learning behaviours. This is because staff model how to behave well. Consequently, children engage with interest and enthusiasm during both adult-led and independent activities. Staff sort any disagreements or unkindness between individuals quickly. Leaders' positive changes to both the curriculum and the quality of teaching mean that children know and remember more than they did in the past. As a result, they are well-prepared to take their next steps in learning. Leaders and staff know children's diverse range of needs well. Staff support those with special educational needs and/or disabilities effectively. Children benefit from a range of exciting opportunities to enrich their education. This helps mould children into well-rounded individuals. A visiting musician helps children to develop their listening skills as well as a love of the arts. Leaders regularly invite families to these sessions so that they can celebrate their children's achievements. Children participate in a theatre project which develops their confidence and independence. Walks in the locality give children an understanding of their place in the world. Leaders diligently ensure that all children have the chance to enjoy these.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that staff consistently provide high-quality interactions so that children’s communication and language skills are developed well across the provision.
• Leaders should strengthen their systems for monitoring attendance so they understand the impact of their work and continue to tackle barriers for key groups, including disadvantaged pupils, those who speak English as an additional language, and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities.

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