Hopespring Nursery

A local story bus, children’s own writing books and celebrations of Islamic traditions give Hopespring Nursery a recognisable character. In May 2025, these experiences brought books, early independence and community life into the children’s day.

Ofsted rated the nursery Good on 15 May 2025 and judged its safeguarding effective. Hopespring has capacity for 20 children; those attending at the inspection were aged two to four. That age range describes the children there at the time.

In May 2025, language developed through conversations and imaginative play: staff explained materials and introduced descriptive vocabulary. A wooden climbing frame gave children something concrete to discuss, as well as opportunities to practise climbing and understand risk.

The early years foundation stage sets the framework for children’s learning, development and care. Here, the May 2025 examples included conversation, imaginative play, physical activity and early writing. Children had their own books and pencils for practising their names, making writing a personal activity.

Walks took children to a park and library, while a local story bus brought visiting readers into the nursery. Children explored Islamic traditions alongside celebrations from other faiths. These experiences connected learning with the surrounding community.

In May 2025, visual timetables helped children anticipate the day, including children with limited language and those learning English as an additional language. Advance reminders before tidying gave them time to finish their play. Predictability mattered.

Specific praise and Star of the Week, a celebration of children’s achievements, recognised their efforts. Parents received newsletters, messages and ideas for continuing learning at home, including guidance on healthy lunch boxes. Self-care activities also supported preparation for school.

The address is Hope Springs, 2 Mexborough Avenue, Leeds, LS7 3EF.

In May 2025, Hopespring operated on weekdays during term time, with sessions running from 9am to 3.30pm. It provided government-funded childcare at that date. This was a daytime, term-time arrangement, so the timetable is an important starting point for families organising care around work.

• Early phonics and individual learning. At the May 2025 inspection, Ofsted identified phonics activities that were too advanced for some children, inconsistent alignment with school phonics teaching, and planning that did not consistently build on each child’s existing learning. Ask how activities now match individual readiness and next steps.
• Term-time timetable. The May 2025 session window was 9am to 3.30pm on weekdays during term time. At a visit, establish how the current attendance arrangement fits your working day and school holidays.

Hopespring merits consideration by families seeking community-connected early learning, with books, imaginative play and self-care prominent in its May 2025 provision. The term-time daytime arrangement described then would suit families whose care needs fit that rhythm. The Good judgement provides a useful starting point, balanced by specific improvements needed in phonics and individual planning.