The Squirrels Childcare Centre

A water wall and a wooden see-saw made physical play and early mathematics tangible at The Squirrels Childcare Centre in August 2024. These were practical learning experiences: operating pumps, moving wood chips and testing balance, rather than simply listening to instructions.

At its August 2024 inspection, Ofsted rated the nursery Good, found safeguarding effective and judged that children, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), made good progress. The centre accepts children aged 3 to 60 months in Bispham, Blackpool.

The early years foundation stage sets the framework for children's learning and care, with play supporting communication, movement and early number skills. In August 2024, activities followed children's interests, and indoor and outdoor play were connected so children who preferred learning outside could do so.

Babies practised crawling and climbing using low equipment. Older children worked the water wall's pumps, exercising strength and coordination. Staff developed larger movements before smaller movements needed for writing, giving physical development a clear sequence.

Mathematics also had a hands-on purpose that August. Children added scoops of wood chips to buckets on a wooden see-saw, estimating and counting as they tried to balance it. Singing and reading featured during the day, while children shared their treasure maps in conversation.

In August 2024, babies built close relationships with their key staff. Practitioners used signing to help some children with SEND communicate, monitored development and worked with external agencies to arrange support.

Parents received updates about learning and opportunities to contribute, alongside advice and signposting when needed. That exchange helped connect care at home with nursery routines. School preparation was practical: children learnt to manage their coats and belongings and practise social skills at mealtimes.

The address is 49 Toronto Avenue, Bispham, Blackpool, FY2 0PD. Opening hours are 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, throughout the year, with closures for bank and public holidays.

In August 2024, the nursery provided funded early education for children aged two, three and four. That inspection-time provision should be distinguished from the current terms of an individual childcare arrangement.

• Younger children's language. In August 2024, staff sometimes lacked confidence when talking with younger children, limiting support for their emerging language. Ask how practitioners now develop these conversations during everyday play.
• Attendance and funding. The year-round opening pattern includes bank and public holiday closures. Discuss the booking pattern and current funded-hours arrangements together before agreeing attendance.

The August 2024 picture combines practical learning with close staff relationships: water play, balancing activities and everyday independence all had a clear purpose. The nursery suits families seeking year-round weekday care who value learning through activity. Support for younger children's language is the specific point to explore before choosing it.