Universal Kids Childcare

A sandpit became a river, guttering became a waterfall and wooden planks became a bridge: in June 2023, children at Universal Kids Childcare shaped their own outdoor play. That practical, inventive learning defined this Blakelaw nursery's character in June 2023. At its June 2023 inspection, Ofsted rated it Outstanding overall.

The nursery has capacity for 22 children. In June 2023, the children attending were aged two to four; that is an inspection-time age range, rather than a current entry rule.

In June 2023, outdoor learning extended well beyond energetic play. Children investigated insects using magnifying glasses, experimented with floating and sinking, and worked out how to release toy dinosaurs trapped in ice. These activities gave them concrete problems to tackle and ideas to test.

The early years foundation stage sets requirements for children's learning, development and care. Here, the June 2023 examples show learning through play: paint, mud and water supported mark-making, while songs and storybooks created opportunities to use language. Garden reading areas brought books outdoors. Older children discussed authors and illustrators, connecting the stories they enjoyed with the people who created them.

Children also grew vegetables and fruit in June 2023, taking their harvest to the kitchen for meals. Growing and eating were connected experiences, rather than separate activities.

At the June 2023 inspection, Ofsted judged safeguarding effective and found excellent SEND support, including individual support plans, additional funded help, and communication adapted through signs, visual aids and language.

In June 2023, practitioners joined health visitors onsite for developmental checks for children aged between two and three, and accompanied children with SEND on school visits. This connected nursery support with health services and the move to school. Staff had undertaken Makaton training to support communication for children with SEND.

Regular stay-and-play sessions in June 2023 brought parents into activities alongside their children; families also received ideas and resources for supporting development at home. Meals were home-cooked, with adults eating alongside children and talking about the morning. Children practised independence by pouring drinks and washing their hands before eating.

Universal Kids Childcare is based at Families Matters, within Cowgate & Blakelaw Childrens Centre, on Lindfield Avenue, Blakelaw, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE5 3PL.

In June 2023, opening hours were 8.30am to 3.15pm on weekdays during term time. The nursery then provided funded early education for children aged two, three and four. These details describe its operation at that date.

• Term-time attendance. The June 2023 opening pattern followed term time, with a 3.15pm finish. Would the current attendance arrangements, age criteria and written quotation fit your family's needs?
• Outdoor learning. In June 2023, children could play outside whatever the weather. On a visit, explore how outdoor activities and clothing arrangements would work for your child.
• Support across settings. June 2023 practice included accompanying children with SEND on school visits. Discuss how an individual transition would be organised for your child.

Universal Kids Childcare's June 2023 provision suited families who valued practical exploration, outdoor learning and opportunities to join their child's activities. The June 2023 picture combines child-led investigation with specific support mechanisms and links to health visitors. For families considering term-time care, its historical attendance pattern is a useful starting point for the joining discussion.