Cawston Montessori

Growing potatoes for snack and building obstacle courses gave Cawston Montessori's July 2021 day a practical, hands-on character. At that inspection, Ofsted rated the nursery Outstanding, recognising the quality of its education and children's enthusiastic engagement in learning.

Cawston Montessori has capacity for 24 children aged two to five, at Cawston Primary Academy on Aylsham Road, Norwich, NR10 4AY. Its term-time calendar makes the school-holiday arrangements an important part of the family decision.

In July 2021, the setting followed the Montessori educational philosophy alongside the early years foundation stage: children developed practical skills through growing food, explored materials creatively and learnt to cooperate in play. These examples give parents a concrete picture of the learning behind the framework and approach.

Outdoor activity involved real physical challenges. In July 2021, children put on waterproof clothing themselves, constructed obstacle courses and used the whizzy dizzy merry-go-round equipment. Getting dressed and organising games gave independence a practical purpose.

The mud kitchen supported imaginative play in July 2021, while dough, instruments and miniature gardens gave children different ways to experiment and express ideas. Water, bottles and rose petals became ingredients for invented mixtures. Children could stay absorbed in an activity for extended periods, giving them time to develop an idea.

At its July 2021 inspection, Ofsted found safeguarding effective and strong support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, who made excellent progress. That is a dated judgement, rather than a description of current practice.

In July 2021, adults responded attentively when children shared their creations, encouraging longer conversations about their ideas. Staff joined play to extend learning and also recognised when children benefited from working things out themselves. For families, this describes care that combined adult attention with opportunities for independence.

Parent communication was another strength in July 2021: staff shared knowledge and support that helped families continue children's learning at home. Staff development included peer observation, coaching and targeted training, making professional learning part of the setting's work.

The address is Cawston Primary Academy, Aylsham Road, Norwich, NR10 4AY. Opening hours are 9am to 3pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday during term time, with closure in school holidays. This calendar requires families needing holiday childcare to plan additional arrangements.

Attending the nursery does not guarantee a place at Cawston Primary Academy.

• Term-time attendance. Opening is limited to Monday, Wednesday and Friday, with school-holiday closures. Does the current booking pattern fit your required days and hours?
• Inspection date. The Outstanding judgement dates to July 2021. Give its detailed picture of learning and care the weight of a historical assessment.
• School location. The nursery's address is Cawston Primary Academy. Families should keep their nursery choice and Reception-place planning separate.

Cawston Montessori suits families seeking term-time care for children aged two to five whose schedules fit its three opening days. The July 2021 picture is compelling: practical independence, sustained creative play and attentive adult relationships. The dated inspection offers useful substance for that choice, while the school-holiday calendar sets a clear practical boundary.