Pembury House Nursery School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 3 June 2026

Children at Pembury experience a warm, secure and deeply nurturing environment where they feel known, valued and safe. They arrive with confidence because the day flows in a calm, steady rhythm and relationships with staff are trusting. Children show that they understand how to behave in thoughtful and considerate ways. They cooperate with one another, respond to gentle guidance and show growing ability to manage their feelings and make positive choices. Children are well supported to shape their own learning. Children enjoy their learning and approach activities with curiosity. They explore number, investigate shapes through building and construction, talk about stories with staff and choose books independently. Outdoors, they climb, balance and solve problems, judging risks with increasing confidence. Indoors, they move confidently through carefully designed zoned areas that support concentration and allow them to follow their interests. Children with additional needs participate fully because staff adapt activities thoughtfully and remove barriers through precise and responsive support. They benefit from finely tuned visual supports and expertly modelled language that enable them to take part with confidence and success. Learning experiences are rich and woven into daily life. Children take part in creative projects, community walks and visits from artists, musicians and storytellers. These experiences broaden their understanding of the world and help them develop high aspirations for the future. Children learn to manage their feelings, persevere when tasks feel challenging and take pride in what they can now do. Staff check learning carefully and shape next steps. These foundations help them move into Reception with confidence and independence. Children belong to a community that celebrates identity and promotes inclusion. They see themselves reflected in books, displays and conversations. Relationships with families are central to the nursery’s work, and children proudly share what they have learned each week. For example, writing their name or talking about a recent project. Children speak positively about their experiences and know they can approach any member of staff if they need help.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should continue their work to ensure that all children establish positive habits of attendance at the earliest possible stage.

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