Ready Steady Grow!

Outdoor vehicle washing, toddler-built ramps and books among the play resources give Ready Steady Grow! a practical, hands-on character in its February 2024 account of daily life. At its 13 February 2024 inspection, Ofsted judged the nursery Good overall.

Based at 171 Elwick Road, Hartlepool, TS26 9NP, it has capacity for 55 children aged 1 to 60 months. The strongest decision points are individual attention, learning through everyday activities and the consistency of support for growing independence.

The early years foundation stage sets the requirements for children's learning, development and care: daily experiences should support development as well as meet practical needs. In February 2024, activities were adapted around children's interests and their next learning steps.

Toddlers tested ramps for toy vehicles, trying again when their designs failed. Outside, children cooperated over washing play vehicles and built structures with crates that they could climb and jump from. These examples connect problem-solving with movement and shared play.

Literacy extended beyond story time. In February 2024, children used the lunch menu to connect written information with the day's meal, while recipes, magazines and information books supplemented stories indoors and outside. Bubbles gave babies opportunities to move, clap and repeat new words. Learning was woven into play rather than confined to a single activity.

At the February 2024 inspection, Ofsted found effective safeguarding, an effective key-person system and especially strong support for children with SEND, including individual attention from their key person.

Babies' eating and sleeping followed their needs in February 2024, with self-feeding encouraged when they were ready. Older children practised managing coats, wellies and cutlery. However, adults did not consistently reinforce sitting down to eat or sustain support with potty training, leaving some expectations unclear.

Parents' evenings and a book sharing scheme supported communication in February 2024; the scheme helped families continue language and literacy activities at home. Staff also worked with educational psychologists, physiotherapists and health professionals to address children's needs. Snacks and home-cooked meals formed part of the day at that time, with conversations about healthy food.

Opening hours are 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday. The nursery operates throughout the year and closes on bank holidays.

In February 2024, funded early education was provided for children aged two, three and four. This is a dated account of participation, rather than a promise of a funded place today.

• Potty-training consistency. In February 2024, adults sometimes stopped pursuing these skills to avoid distress. Discuss how home and nursery will agree a consistent approach for your child.
• Mealtime expectations. February 2024 practice did not consistently reinforce sitting while eating. Ask how staff now help children understand and follow this routine.
• Attendance and funding. With weekday opening across the year, which booking pattern and current funding arrangement would fit your family's needs?

Ready Steady Grow! suits families who value practical play and an individual relationship with a key person. Its February 2024 account combines inventive outdoor activity with everyday literacy and substantial SEND support. Consistency around independence and mealtimes deserves attention alongside those strengths.