The Dunes Nursery

Mud, books and beach visits give The Dunes Nursery’s February 2022 picture its character: children explored textures, followed animal interests and took learning beyond the building. At its February 2022 inspection, Ofsted rated the nursery Good and found safeguarding effective.

The nursery is at 3 Dunes Avenue, Blackpool, FY4 1PU, with capacity for 25 children aged 24 to 60 months. Those whole-setting places should not be read as the size of an individual group.

In February 2022, sensory experiences included paint, water and mud, alongside cutting real vegetables and fruit. Age groups had separate activity areas, while children could choose experiences and keep practising tasks such as using scissors. This gave practical skills a place alongside exploration.

The early years foundation stage is the framework for children’s learning, development and care. Here, the February 2022 examples included physical activity, conversations and books: different parts of learning connected through play and everyday routines.

Dear Zoo, a book children responded to with elephant stomping sounds, illustrated how stories prompted participation. Older children explored extinct and endangered animals through factual books. Weekly music and yoga sessions added movement, while visits to parks and the beach brought experiences beyond nursery activities.

A child’s baguette also became a starting point for bread-making. These examples show how children’s interests could shape an activity rather than merely supply its theme.

In February 2022, children formed close relationships with staff, and parents valued how quickly they settled. Communication included progress updates and parents’ evenings, giving families more than one opportunity to discuss development.

Children of different ages ate together that February, with younger children watching older children’s table manners. Discussions about carrots, watermelon and treats linked food with healthy choices. Visits from a local librarian also supported early literacy and children’s interest in books.

There were limits to the approach. In February 2022, everyday routines did not consistently encourage children to manage coats, serve snacks or pour drinks themselves. Practical independence therefore needed more attention alongside the hands-on activities.

Opening hours are 8.15am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday. The nursery opens throughout the year and closes on bank holidays, making its calendar relevant to families whose childcare needs continue beyond school terms.

In February 2022, the nursery provided funded early education for two-, three- and four-year-olds. That is a dated funding position, separate from the current opening hours and age range above.

• Language and identity. February 2022 improvement points covered more ambitious vocabulary and greater attention to each child’s heritage. Families should weigh these alongside the animal books and interest-led activities described from that period.
• Everyday independence. In February 2022, practical activities were stronger than opportunities to take responsibility during routine tasks. Coat fastening and serving snacks are useful examples of the skills involved.
• Attendance and funding. The all-year calendar may suit care beyond term time. At a visit, ask which booking pattern and funded-hours arrangement would fit your child’s week.

The Dunes Nursery suits families seeking care across the year who value practical exploration, books and experiences beyond the nursery. Its February 2022 picture combines sensory activities and responsive planning with clear priorities around language, personal identity and everyday independence. Keep that dated picture separate from the practical arrangements for your child today.