Newnham Nursery

At the May 2025 inspection, bug investigations, measuring chains and books to take home illustrated Newnham Nursery's approach: learning grew from what children were already doing. Based at Newnham Croft Primary School in Cambridge, it has capacity for 24 children.

At its May 2025 inspection, Ofsted judged the nursery Good, found safeguarding effective and reported that collaboration with parents and specialists supported good progress, including for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Children attending then were aged two to five.

In May 2025, children examined insects through magnifying glasses before painting them. Staff used their interests to sustain attention, connecting close observation with creative work. A chain-link activity became an opportunity to explore measurement when staff introduced a tape measure. Play supplied the starting point; adults extended it.

The early years foundation stage is the required framework for children's learning, development and care. Here, the May 2025 examples show how play brought together number work, physical skills and exploration rather than treating them as isolated tasks.

Slow stretches and breathing exercises also formed part of the day in May 2025. These pauses helped children who struggled with changes between activities prepare for what came next. Exercise and rest both had a place.

In May 2025, staff adjusted their help to children's abilities, offering a hand when younger children practised balancing. Children also rehearsed everyday independence: washing hands before eating, pouring drinks at snack time and choosing books to read at home.

In May 2025, parents received daily information about their child's day, while posters explained the minibeast activities. The next step was more individual detail. Parents needed clearer information about their own child's development and upcoming learning goals so they could continue that work at home.

Sun safety was another improvement priority in May 2025. Children needed more opportunities to think for themselves about suitable clothing, including choosing a hat before outdoor play in sunny weather.

The address is Newnham Croft Primary School, Chedworth Street, Cambridge CB3 9JF. In May 2025, the nursery operated on weekdays during school terms, with sessions running from 9am to 2.55pm, and provided funded early education for eligible children.

In May 2025, communication with the linked school supported children's transition. Sharing a school site does not guarantee a Reception place.

• Term-time routine. The May 2025 pattern followed school terms and finished at 2.55pm. What attendance arrangements and funded-hours pattern would apply to your child now?
• Learning updates. In May 2025, daily news was stronger than communication about individual learning goals. At a visit, ask how those next steps are now shared with families.
• Independent sun safety. The May 2025 improvement priority concerned children learning to manage their own sun protection. Ask how choosing suitable outdoor clothing is built into their routine.

Newnham Nursery suits families drawn to interest-led play, practical independence and a school-site setting. Its May 2025 term-time session pattern is the relevant starting point for judging whether it fits family routines. The clearest considerations are how individual learning updates and sun-safety habits have developed since that visit.