Mary Poppins Daycare

Giant tractor tyres for climbing and play-dough mixing give Mary Poppins Daycare a practical, hands-on character in its July 2024 account. Based in Burton Pidsea, it has capacity for 22 children. The outdoor equipment and everyday materials give children opportunities to move, experiment and talk about their discoveries.

At its 25 July 2024 inspection, Ofsted rated the nursery Good overall and judged safeguarding effective. That positive assessment sits alongside two clear improvement priorities: stronger support strategies for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), and more effective staff supervision and coaching.

The early years foundation stage sets the framework for children's learning, development and care: here, the July 2024 activities show how play can build language, mathematical understanding and independence together.

Children combined oil, flour and water to make play dough, taking turns with the mixing. Adults prompted discussion about texture and colour, making a practical task an opportunity for conversation. During sand play, counting and language about quantities brought mathematics into children's chosen activities.

Outside, in July 2024, tractor tyres, slides and climbing frames supported balancing and climbing. Children could select activities indoors and outdoors, giving them a say in their play. Adults allowed thinking time after questions and modelled pronunciation, rather than rushing children towards an answer.

In July 2024, familiar routines and positive staff relationships helped children separate from parents comfortably. Adults reinforced sharing and listening, and helped children work through small disagreements. Older children practised serving food, pouring drinks and clearing leftovers, alongside managing handwashing and other personal care.

At the July 2024 inspection, Ofsted found that the SEND coordinator worked with families and teachers on school transitions, but staff needed greater confidence in strategies for supporting children with SEND. Professional advice was sought; translating that advice into everyday interactions was the development priority.

Parents received developmental updates through conversations and photographs on an online platform in July 2024. Team meetings and annual appraisals supported staff, but management needed clearer arrangements for observing practice, coaching and training. Freshly prepared, balanced food and conversations about dental health also formed part of that month's care provision.

The address is Bowmar, Carr Road, Burton Pidsea, Hull HU12 9DH. In July 2024, opening hours were Monday to Friday, 7.30am to 5.45pm, throughout the year except bank holidays. These were opening hours rather than specified booking sessions.

The children attending at that time were aged 0 to 10. In July 2024, the nursery also provided funded early education for children aged two, three and four.

• SEND support. July 2024 identified a need for stronger staff strategies and interactions. Families whose children need additional support should weigh this finding carefully.
• Staff development. More effective supervision, coaching and training were July 2024 priorities. This matters because the quality of daily interactions depends on how staff practice is supported.
• Settling for younger children. Familiar routines helped children settle in July 2024. On a visit, how would those routines be adapted for your child's age and care needs?

Mary Poppins Daycare suits families who value practical play, outdoor movement and everyday independence. Its July 2024 picture combines positive relationships and purposeful conversation with specific weaknesses in SEND strategies and staff development. Those priorities deserve as much attention as the appealing play experiences.