Broadway Daycare

Superhero vegetables and a wooden bridge give Broadway Daycare's February 2022 activities a recognisable character: stories prompted creative choices, while outdoor play brought physical challenges. At its 18 February 2022 inspection, Ofsted rated the nursery Good and found safeguarding effective.

Based at Healthfield Primary School in Darlington, Broadway Daycare has capacity for 55 children, with a current age range from birth to five. The inspection account provides a dated picture of its daily life.

The early years foundation stage sets the requirements for children's learning, development and care, bringing learning and everyday wellbeing into the same framework. In February 2022, staff planned activities around children's interests, using observations to decide what to offer next.

Supertato supplied one practical example: children decorated vegetables as superheroes and chose how their creations would look. Staff also introduced vegetable names and repeated unfamiliar vocabulary. Stories became a starting point for making and talking.

Outside in February 2022, children tackled an obstacle course and crossed a wooden bridge, alongside play with wheeled vehicles and larger equipment. Toddlers practised smaller movements through pasta threading and chunky crayons. Babies persisted with a coin shape sorter, while older children worked out how puzzle pieces fitted.

Independence ran through ordinary routines in February 2022. Children removed their coats, put toys away, poured drinks and prepared fruit at snack time. These were practical opportunities to do things for themselves.

Daily conversations kept parents informed about activities, and development updates were shared regularly. However, at the February 2022 inspection, Ofsted identified two improvements: giving parents more guidance for learning at home and making staff supervision more effective in developing teaching.

Health routines in February 2022 included handwashing and discussions about toothbrushing, healthy food and sugary drinks. Managers also worked with a local authority adviser and liaised with local school teachers over children's transition to school.

The address is Healthfield Primary School, The Broadway, Darlington, DL1 1EJ. Opening hours are 7.30am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, throughout the year.

In February 2022, the nursery provided funded early education for children aged two, three and four. Its school-site address does not guarantee a Reception place.

• Learning at home. February 2022 development updates did not consistently explain how parents could extend learning. Ask how today's updates translate activities into ideas for home.
• Staff development. February 2022 supervision needed a clearer emphasis on teaching. This matters alongside the practical activities described above.
• Your attendance pattern. The weekday opening window spans early morning to early evening. Which booking pattern would fit your family's routine?

Broadway Daycare suits families seeking weekday care in Darlington. Its February 2022 account combines creative play, outdoor movement and growing independence, balanced by specific improvements around home learning and staff supervision. That dated picture is the basis for its educational strengths here.