Minik Kardes, the Factory Children's Centre

Water added carefully to dry sand and colours mixed to solve a play-dough problem: practical experimentation gives this nursery's June 2022 account its character. Children had opportunities to try ideas for themselves, alongside relationships with familiar adults.

At its June 2022 inspection, Ofsted rated the nursery Good, judged safeguarding effective and found that children made good progress, with effective support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The setting has capacity for 51 children at 107 Matthias Road, London N16 8NP.

The early years foundation stage sets requirements for children's learning, development and care: play and everyday routines support learning alongside children's wellbeing. In June 2022, children chose activities and explored practical problems. Babies experimented with adding water to sand; older children combined food colouring to create the colour they needed for play dough. These examples give parents a concrete picture of learning through trial and adjustment.

Outdoor learning also had a practical thread in June 2022. Children grew carrots, strawberries and mint in the nursery garden, with adults talking about their planting. Growing food connected conversation with something children could tend and observe.

In June 2022, familiar staff adapted care to children's individual personalities, while pictures and signing helped children communicate and understand routines. Parents received updates about achievements and newsletters about forthcoming learning topics, giving them something specific to continue at home.

Relationships needed a careful balance. At the June 2022 inspection, Ofsted identified that some children relied too heavily on their key person and asked staff to help them become more confident in choosing and sustaining their own play. That is a useful distinction for families: a close adult relationship should also support increasing independence.

In June 2022, the special educational needs coordinator worked with families and other professionals. Everyday care included handwashing, support with using tissues and toothbrushing after lunch. Fresh meals catered for children's dietary needs.

The address is 107 Matthias Road, London N16 8NP. In June 2022, the nursery opened on weekdays from 8am to 6pm throughout the year and provided funded early education for children aged two, three and four. Children attending at that time were aged 0 to 4; this is a dated picture of attendance rather than a current age promise.

• Confidence beyond the key person. The June 2022 improvement point concerned children becoming overly reliant on one adult. During a visit, ask how staff help children continue playing when that adult is occupied.
• Your attendance pattern. The June 2022 opening window ran from 8am to 6pm on weekdays. Which current booking pattern, funded-hours arrangement and written quotation would fit your family's routine?

The June 2022 picture will appeal to families who value practical exploration, communication support and close relationships with staff. Sand experiments, growing food and visual communication give that picture substance. The balance between adult reassurance and children's independent play deserves attention: it was the specific improvement priority behind an otherwise Good judgement.