Cherubs Worksop

Herb growing, tricycle play and early conversations give Cherubs Worksop's July 2022 picture its character. At its 26 July 2022 inspection, Ofsted rated the nursery Good and found safeguarding effective. That judgement provides a dated assessment of care and education, rather than a description of today's daily routines.

Based at Sparken Hill Academy, Sparken Hill, Worksop, S80 1AW, the nursery has 55 places in total. In July 2022, children attending ranged from birth to 10 years old; that age span belongs to the visit rather than the current offer.

The early years foundation stage sets requirements for children's learning, development and care. In everyday terms, it connects play with learning to communicate, move, build relationships and become more independent.

In July 2022, practical activities gave children opportunities to develop hand control: babies dug with spoons, toddlers made chalk circles and preschool children operated spray bottles to water plants. Growing herbs also prompted explanations about roots, water and sunshine. These were concrete experiences children could explore with their hands.

Language, numbers and letters were woven into play that month. Adults counted and named colours with babies, introduced words about quantity through sand play, and helped preschool children identify letters using dough and name tags. At the talking table, drawing provided a starting point for conversation.

Physical play included a small ramp for babies, tunnels and a tricycle track for older children. Encouragement helped toddlers persist with a climbing frame. Group story activities worked for many children, but some became distracted and interrupted others: organising these gatherings more effectively was an improvement priority.

In July 2022, children included others in games and helped friends, while adults addressed disagreements and supported sharing. Independence was developing through toileting, nose wiping and cutlery use, although adults sometimes took over tasks toddlers could attempt themselves, including serving food and pouring drinks.

At the July 2022 inspection, Ofsted also identified less purposeful conversations with babies and reported parents' appreciation of advice, including support relating to special educational needs and disabilities. For families, the important distinction is between supportive relationships and the specific improvements needed in everyday interactions.

Meals in July 2022 were healthy, drinking water was accessible, and staff accommodated dietary needs and allergies. Staff also received ongoing development opportunities and targeted training.

The address is Sparken Hill Academy, Sparken Hill, Worksop, S80 1AW.

In July 2022, the nursery operated throughout the year on weekdays, with session times running from 7.30am to 6pm. It also provided funded early education for children aged two, three and four at that time. These are historical attendance arrangements, rather than current booking terms.

• Baby conversations. More purposeful adult interaction with babies was a July 2022 improvement priority. On a visit, look at how practitioners respond to babies' sounds and actions.
• Independence and group activities. July 2022 priorities included giving toddlers more responsibility at meals and helping children stay engaged during group gatherings. Ask how these parts of the day are organised now.
• Attendance planning. The July 2022 account covered weekday, year-round sessions and funded early education. Which current attendance patterns, accepted ages and funding terms would fit your child?

Cherubs Worksop deserves consideration from families who value practical play, conversation and growing independence. Its July 2022 assessment gives a positive foundation, with useful detail about learning through plants, movement and everyday tasks. The decision should also weigh the clearly identified priorities for baby communication, toddler self-help and group activities.