Exmoor Stepping Stones CIC

The Valley of the Rocks, beach visits and the cliff railway give Exmoor Stepping Stones CIC a recognisable coastal character. In January 2024, these outings brought children into contact with their community, with opportunities to practise road safety and respect for their surroundings.

Ofsted rated the setting Good on 18 January 2024. This small Lynton nursery has capacity for 16 children; the children attending in January 2024 were aged two to four. Its appeal rests on personal attention, active play and the use of the surrounding area.

In January 2024, children chose their activities and play companions, while adults adjusted learning to individual abilities. The early years foundation stage sets the framework for learning, development and care: here, play included counting, conversation and practising everyday independence.

A toy farmyard prompted discussions about animal food and keeping animals cool. Children counted to ten and beyond. Dancing to Dingle Dangle Scarecrow combined singing with movement, and some children extended the activity by trying to balance on one leg.

Outdoor play included running and climbing in January 2024. Walks on steep local routes also gave children sustained physical exercise. The nursery operated from a self-contained property, giving this community provision its own premises.

At its January 2024 inspection, Ofsted found that children, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), progressed well, that agency partnerships supported additional needs, and that safeguarding was effective.

In January 2024, staffing exceeded the expected minimum, and each child received individual time with an adult every week. That made personal attention a concrete part of the routine. Children formed affectionate relationships with staff and each other, while adults encouraged kindness and respected different personalities.

Parents received updates about learning and practical guidance on behaviour, toilet training and healthy eating. Children practised fastening coats and washed their hands independently. Staff discussed progress and teaching during end-of-day cleaning and refreshed their knowledge through training.

The address is Bottom Meadow Car park, Lynton, Devon EX35 6AR. In January 2024, opening hours were 9am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday, during term time. These were opening hours rather than a specified menu of bookable sessions.

At that time, the nursery received funding for children aged two, three and four. Families considering attendance should distinguish that dated operating pattern from their present childcare requirements.

• Space to speak. The January 2024 improvement priority was giving younger and quieter children more opportunities to contribute to conversations. On a visit, ask how small-group activities make room for those children’s voices.
• An active local routine. January 2024 outings included steep walks as well as coastal destinations. Consider how that physical emphasis fits your child’s confidence and stamina.
• Term-time planning. The January 2024 timetable followed term time and ended at 3.30pm. What attendance arrangements would fit your family now?

Exmoor Stepping Stones CIC suits families drawn to a small community nursery with active outdoor experiences and individual adult attention. Its January 2024 daily life combined local outings, child-led play and practical independence. The quieter-child speaking priority deserves attention alongside those strengths, especially for a child who needs encouragement to join a conversation.