Nurture in Nature, Forest School

Muddy banks, bird-box making and sorting natural materials give Nurture in Nature, Forest School its character. In February 2023, children explored uneven ground, practised using tools and learnt through outdoor activity. This was hands-on early learning.

At its February 2023 inspection, Ofsted rated the setting Good overall, with Outstanding behaviour and attitudes, and found safeguarding effective and children making progress, including those with additional needs. The nursery has 15 places in total; children attending in February 2023 were aged 3 to 11.

The early years foundation stage sets the requirements for children's learning, development and care: the day should support different areas of learning alongside children's wellbeing. In February 2023, activities connected mathematical ideas, physical skills and conversation with children's interests.

Number sequences gave children a problem to solve. They corrected deliberately muddled numbers, counted and compared sizes. Sorting conkers, corks and pine cones with tongs exercised the small movements needed for writing, while the materials prompted discussion about trees and objects children recognised.

Outdoor learning also involved persistence and practical safety. In February 2023, children tried again after slipping on muddy slopes; bird-box construction involved hammers, nails and protective glasses. Photographs helped them recall a seed-buying trip and building a sled, giving shared experiences a second life through conversation.

In February 2023, children offered help with packed lunches and listened to one another's ideas during football. Staff helped them work through disagreements over rules. These examples show what the behaviour judgement meant in everyday interactions.

Independence received practical attention, too. Children were encouraged to attempt changing their outdoor clothing and boots before receiving help. Key persons exchanged information with other settings children attended, while assessments involved parents and established what children could already do. Parents received regular updates about learning.

The address is Nurture in Nature, Cuckoo Down Lane, Honiton, Devon EX14 9TT.

In February 2023, opening hours were 9am to 3.30pm on Wednesday and Thursday, and 9am to 3pm on Friday, during term time. At that date, the setting received funding for three- and four-year-olds. These are historical operating arrangements rather than a current attendance offer.

• Songs and language. In February 2023, children needed more regular opportunities for singing and listening to songs. Ask how these now fit into the outdoor day.
• Staff development. February 2023 improvement work included strengthening ongoing staff development, especially support for communication and language. This matters alongside the practical learning activities.
• Outdoor independence. February 2023 activities included muddy slopes, tools and changing weather gear. Consider how comfortable your child is with these demands and discuss the support they would receive.

The February 2023 picture will appeal to families who value outdoor exploration, practical tasks and children learning to cooperate. The strongest examples combine physical challenge with purposeful learning: handling tools safely, sorting natural objects and negotiating a game. Language opportunities and staff development remain important questions arising from that inspection. Families considering this nursery should weigh that dated picture against their child's needs.