Anker Bridge Nursery

In October 2023, bug hunts in the garden, music for babies and growing independence gave Anker Bridge Nursery a recognisable early-years character. At its October 2023 inspection, Ofsted judged the nursery Good overall and found safeguarding effective, with children progressing well in their learning.

Based at Anker Bridge House on Bridge Street in Polesworth, B78 1DR, it has capacity for 50 children from birth to five. Its opening hours are 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, across the year, with bank holiday closures.

In October 2023, babies explored musical instruments, while older children searched the garden for insects, used a climbing frame and practised steering wheeled toys around one another. These experiences brought sound, movement and outdoor exploration into the day. Finding their own named place mats also gave children a practical reason to recognise their names.

The early years foundation stage is the required framework for learning, development and care: here, the October 2023 activities illustrate how play, conversation and everyday routines can build those skills. Staff used observations of children's interests and existing abilities to shape what came next.

Language ran through ordinary interactions. In October 2023, songs accompanied babies' days, and older children listened to stories and joined conversations. Staff also learnt words from children's home languages to help communication with children learning English as an additional language.

In October 2023, staff learnt about families and maintained babies' familiar home routines to help them settle. Comfort and reassurance supported relationships; gentle reminders helped children understand expectations and manage difficult feelings.

Everyday care also encouraged independence. In October 2023, older children practised dressing for outdoor play, toileting and serving food, while babies were encouraged to feed themselves. Freshly prepared food reflected individual dietary needs, and handwashing reminders formed part of mealtime routines.

At the October 2023 inspection, Ofsted identified two priorities: giving parents clearer information about children's next learning steps, and developing staff's teaching further. Regular staff meetings, supervision and professional development were already part of the support available to practitioners that month.

Anker Bridge House, Bridge Street, Polesworth, B78 1DR is the nursery's address. The weekday opening window runs from 8am until 6pm; attendance continues across the year apart from bank holidays.

In October 2023, the nursery received early-education funding for two-, three- and four-year-olds. This is a dated participation fact, rather than a promise of an individual child's entitlement or booking arrangement.

• Learning updates. Clearer information about children's next steps was an October 2023 improvement priority. During a visit, ask how those plans are shared and translated into activities families can try at home.
• Developing teaching. Further staff development was the other October 2023 priority. Ask how supervision and training now influence the activities planned for your child's stage.
• Attendance and costs. The nursery opens across the year, with bank holiday closures. Ask for a written quotation setting out your intended attendance pattern, funded hours and the arrangements for meals and consumables.

Anker Bridge Nursery suits families seeking care across the year and parents who value practical independence alongside play. Its October 2023 picture combines garden exploration, language-rich interactions and familiar routines for babies. The decision should also give weight to the two improvement priorities: communication about future learning and further development of teaching.