The Limes Nursery School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 23 May 2023

The Limes Nursery School is a lovely, calm place to learn, and is full of fun and laughter. Relationships between staff, children and their families are a real strength. Everyone is included and valued here. Staff skilfully support children as they learn to play alongside one another. Children are shown how to manage their emotions as they discover how to share, take turns and play together. Reliable routines help children feel secure and confident in their environment throughout the day. Children thrive as they explore the wide spaces that make up a variety of garden areas. They design and build fantasy houses, wash the bikes and make mud pies for Red Riding Hood's grandma. Inside, the youngest children measure ingredients and knead dough to make bread for their friends. Children learn important knowledge, while also being encouraged to think for themselves and to contribute their own ideas. Consequently, children are prepared well for their next steps. A parent summed up the views expressed by parents and carers, when they said, 'The school teaches my daughter how to keep safe, problem solve, ask for help and to be a good friend. She has blossomed since starting at The Limes.'

What the school should improve

• Some staff do not have the knowledge they need to support children with early phonics awareness. This means that a small number of children who are ready to say and write the sounds and words they can hear do not get precise support to develop their early reading skills. Leaders need to ensure that all staff are able to support children to learn early phonics.

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