The Kingsdown Nursery School, Lincoln

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 4 May 2023

This friendly, welcoming school is like one big happy family. Children are thriving because staff show great care for them. Children say that they feel safe. They like that staff quickly sort out any problems. Staff have the highest expectations for all children. They have created a calm and purposeful learning environment. They know how to maximise the children's learning. Children fully engage in the activities. They take delight in their learning. Staff tailor every interaction so that the children flourish. Staff prioritise children's personal development. Staff take every opportunity to model good manners. They use their knowledge of the children to keep them focused on their learning, both inside and outside the building. Children are independent. They know how to help themselves to water. They know to wash their hands before eating. Children behave very well. Parents and carers are overwhelmingly positive about the school. They value the strength of relationships between school and home. One parent, typical of many, said: 'My daughter loves going to school. The children are always welcomed when they arrive with big smiles by the staff. They are very encouraging to the children.' Parents like that their children are safe and that staff are approachable.

What the school should improve

• Leaders have not identified in sufficient detail the important knowledge that children need in preparation for learning as they move through the school. This means that teachers are not clear what earlier knowledge children have secured before they introduce new concepts. Leaders should ensure that the early years curriculum identifies this important knowledge so that children can embed earlier learning and build securely on what they know.

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