Thorne Flowerpots

Butterflies developing from eggs into adults and pet fish gave children real creatures to care for at Thorne Flowerpots in July 2024. Those experiences connected learning about nature with consideration for living things. Older children also helped younger children complete tasks.

Ofsted rated the nursery Good on 11 July 2024 and asked staff to make fuller use of opportunities to develop mathematical understanding. Based at Thorne Childrens Centre in Doncaster, the setting has 28 places in total; children attending in July 2024 were aged two to four.

The early years foundation stage is the framework for children's learning, development and care. Here, its everyday expression in July 2024 included language development, early writing, imaginative play and growing independence.

In July 2024, staff introduced vocabulary through play, pronounced words clearly and used familiar words from children's home languages. Songs offered another route into communication: younger children selected soft toys linked to nursery rhymes, while older children recalled songs and their accompanying actions.

Name cards made recognising written names part of attendance and snack routines in July 2024. Younger children experimented with paint and sand; older children made marks together on a large piece of paper. Books were accessible outdoors as well as inside, giving reading a place beyond indoor activities. Superhero costumes and small-world toys supported imaginative play.

At the July 2024 inspection, Ofsted found safeguarding effective and children, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), progressing well, with staff working alongside other professionals to support children with SEND.

In July 2024, settling arrangements could include visits at home, sessions with parents staying to play and a gradual introduction to attendance. These gave staff different ways to respond to individual children's needs. Clear routines, encouragement and physical reassurance helped children settle into the day.

During July 2024, staff worked with parents on dressing and toileting independence, communicated about children's learning and planned the move to school. Handwashing before eating, learning about food choices and support for dental care brought health into everyday routines. Children also spent time exercising outdoors each day.

The address is Thorne Childrens Centre, The Laurels, Fieldside, Thorne, Doncaster, DN8 4BQ.

In July 2024, attendance ran during term time, Monday to Friday, with sessions from 8am until 2.30pm. Funded early education was offered for children aged two, three and four. This was a daytime, term-time arrangement rather than evidence of an extended working-day timetable.

• Mathematics in play. In July 2024, staff sometimes missed chances to extend mathematical language and skills. Ask how counting, comparison and mathematical vocabulary now feature in everyday activities.
• Attendance planning. The July 2024 session window ended at 2.30pm and operated during term time. What current attendance pattern would fit your family's childcare needs?

Thorne Flowerpots' July 2024 experience would suit families seeking term-time daytime care, with language-rich play, practical independence and flexible settling arrangements. Caring for butterflies and fish gave learning a tangible purpose. The mathematical improvement point deserves attention alongside that positive picture.