Sara Atkinsons Day Nursery

Bead threading, homemade musical shakers and a calm corner shaped the February 2024 inspection picture of Sara Atkinsons Day Nursery. This Sutton-In-Ashfield setting has capacity for 16 children, making its whole-setting scale an important part of the choice.

At the February 2024 inspection, Ofsted judged the nursery Good and found safeguarding effective. The children attending then were aged 0 to 10; that is an inspection-time age range, rather than a statement of today's intake.

The early years foundation stage sets the framework for children's learning, development and care: play supports learning alongside everyday routines. In February 2024, threading beads brought together finger control, counting and recognising colour shades. Children also practised sharing toys and inviting friends into their games.

A song and dance session involved making shakers with rice and glitter. An indoor slide provided another opportunity to discuss safe choices. These examples show how materials and movement could become starting points for learning.

There were teaching limitations too. In February 2024, assessment information did not consistently shape the next challenge during children's own play. Adult-directed activities sometimes concentrated on finishing an object rather than exploring the learning along the way. Staff coaching also needed to translate into more consistent practice.

In February 2024, settling began with information about children's interests and experiences at home. Favourite books helped staff make an unfamiliar setting feel more recognisable. Conversations with parents contributed to planning children's next steps.

The calm corner gave children somewhere to pause, with a book and an adult's help to talk through their feelings. Snack routines involved handwashing, waiting for friends and peeling fruit, bringing small opportunities for independence into the day.

The address is 146a Dalestorth Street, Sutton-In-Ashfield, NG17 4EY.

In February 2024, opening hours were 8am to 6pm, with Monday-to-Friday opening during term time and Monday-to-Thursday opening during school holidays. Funded early education was provided for children aged two, three and four at that time.

• Learning beyond the activity. February 2024 improvement points covered assessment-led teaching, adult-directed learning and consistent staff skills. During a visit, ask how staff now choose the next challenge for a child and put coaching into practice.
• The attendance arrangement. The February 2024 pattern included school-holiday opening on fewer weekdays. What current opening days and accepted ages would apply to your child's booking?

For families drawn to a small setting, the 16-place capacity is a useful starting point. The February 2024 picture will appeal to parents who value practical play, familiar books during settling and help with emotions. Balance those strengths against the teaching improvements identified at that visit; consistent challenge during play deserves close attention.