University of East Anglia Nursery

In May 2022, independence took a practical form at University of East Anglia Nursery: children chose their breakfast and washed their bowls afterwards. That small responsibility captures the character of the provision at the time, with children taking an active part in routines as well as play.

At its May 2022 inspection, Ofsted judged the nursery Outstanding and found safeguarding effective. On Earlham Road in Norwich, the nursery has capacity for 88 children aged 3 to 60 months.

The early years foundation stage is the required framework for learning and care. In May 2022, its everyday expression here included conversations with babies, physical play and baking, connecting communication, movement and practical independence.

Children making cupcakes used pictures to work through the steps, with adults giving enough help for them to complete the task themselves. Repeating familiar activities gave children another opportunity to practise. Climbing apparatus and stepping stones brought a physical challenge, while babies and toddlers explored a sticky mixture with dinosaurs and sticks.

Outdoor experiences in May 2022 included forest school, where children gathered plant materials for mixtures and ate food cooked over a campfire. Water trays created opportunities to share equipment and take turns. Bug hunting also prompted conversations about living creatures and their feelings, giving outdoor exploration a social dimension.

In May 2022, staff used their knowledge of babies’ routines and preferences to connect nursery care with home. Children were encouraged to participate in personal care, including nappy changes, giving them a role in what happened to them.

Quiet spaces and breathing balls helped children settle their emotions; a story about a monster and colours supported conversations about feelings. Staff also learnt words from children’s home languages and allowed time for answers during conversations. These were concrete ways of making communication part of daily care.

Family communication in May 2022 combined an online platform with discussions. Staff shared daily information and offered ideas for learning at home, while also working with other settings children attended. Management supported individual staff development, including training about children’s mental wellbeing following the pandemic. Safeguarding training was reinforced through questions at staff meetings.

The address is Earlham Road, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. Opening hours are 8.30am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, across the year, with closures for bank holidays and university closures.

In May 2022, children aged three and four could receive funded early education at the nursery. That is a dated account of its funding provision.

• Inspection timing. The Outstanding judgement dates to May 2022. On a visit, explore how the practical independence, outdoor experiences and communication described then operate now.
• University closures. These sit alongside bank holidays in the closure pattern. Families needing year-round care should factor both into their plans.
• Funding arrangements. In May 2022, children aged three and four could receive funded early education. What funded attendance arrangements and associated costs would apply to your child now?

University of East Anglia Nursery suits families seeking weekday, year-round care within its 8.30am to 5.30pm opening window. Its May 2022 account gives the strongest sense of its character: practical tasks, outdoor exploration and personal care that involved children directly. The university closure pattern is a concrete consideration for families whose working calendars differ.