Quince Tree Day Nursery

A children's project about DNA and cells reached the Science Museum: Quince Tree Day Nursery's January 2024 experience gives a concrete picture of learning driven by children's questions. A discussion about differences developed into a paper figure, a display and further exploration. Small questions became substantial projects.

At its 30 January 2024 inspection, Ofsted rated the nursery Outstanding, found exceptionally effective support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, and judged safeguarding effective. In South Ockendon, the nursery has capacity for 30 children and accepts ages from 12 to 60 months.

The early years foundation stage brings learning, development and care together: children build language through conversation, explore the world around them and learn to treat others considerately. In January 2024, children's interests shaped the activities, with staff introducing new ideas to take their exploration further.

The DNA project made children's differences tangible through a paper model and a display wall. Another conversation, prompted by a story, connected caring for the planet with knowledge from an allotment visit. Children drew on what they had learned about trees when discussing food and air. These examples show children applying earlier learning to new questions.

During that January, visitors regularly introduced children to different faiths, cultures and occupations. Staff also joined conversations at children's level, listening to their ideas and extending the exchanges. There was space for children to contribute, rather than simply receive instructions.

In January 2024, practitioners worked consistently with their key children. For younger children, that familiarity helped adults recognise needs and respond promptly; babies and toddlers received comfort from adults who knew them well. Sleep routines included cuddles and favourite music playing quietly.

Daily communication kept parents informed, and parents knew their child's key person. Children were taught to recognise that people learn differently, alongside consistent expectations for considerate behaviour. This linked individual relationships with the way children treated one another.

Staff development also received attention that January. Practitioners were supported to extend their knowledge, while management planned and maintained operational records. These were features of the nursery's work at that time.

Quince Tree Day Nursery's address is Quince Tree Close, South Ockendon, RM15 6NL. Opening hours are 7.30am to 7pm, Monday to Friday, across the year, with closures for bank holidays and one week at Christmas. That broad opening window is useful for families comparing childcare with their working hours.

In January 2024, the nursery provided funded early education for children aged two, three and four.

• Age range. The current intake spans 12 to 60 months. At a visit, how would the nursery organise settling and daily care for your child's stage?
• Child-led projects. January 2024 examples included DNA exploration and learning connected to an allotment visit. What recent project best demonstrates how children's questions shape activities now?
• Attendance and funding. The nursery opens throughout the year, with bank-holiday and Christmas closures; funded early education was provided in January 2024. Ask for a written quotation covering your intended attendance and any funded hours.

Quince Tree suits families seeking year-round childcare and an approach that gives children's ideas room to develop. Its January 2024 examples combine ambitious topics with familiar relationships and comforting routines. The Outstanding judgement provides a strong dated assessment; the practical appeal today includes its broad weekday opening window.