Little Fishes Nursery

Small moments give Little Fishes Nursery its character: toddlers signing for more at meals, babies experimenting with paint and preschool children helping clear plates. These were features of daily life in November 2024. At its 20 November 2024 inspection, Ofsted rated the nursery Good and judged safeguarding effective.

Based at East Lodge in Steventon, the nursery has 42 places in total. Children attending in November 2024 were aged 0 to 4; that age range describes the inspection-time intake.

In November 2024, learning drew on ordinary discoveries as well as planned activities. Ice forming in an outdoor tray became an opportunity to observe melting and changes in the ice. Babies explored paint and glue while staff introduced vocabulary, linking words to something children could handle.

The early years foundation stage is the required framework for children's learning, development and care. Here, the November 2024 examples included songs, books, conversation and practical exploration: learning took place through play and interaction.

Makaton accompanied spoken words for toddlers in November 2024, with signs supporting communication at mealtimes. Preschool children practised attention and listening in small groups. However, some adults spoke too quickly for children to absorb what they were hearing, making the pace of conversation an important consideration.

In November 2024, adults offered physical comfort and encouragement, while babies and toddlers practised feeding themselves. Preschool children took responsibility for clearing plates. These small tasks gave children opportunities to participate in their own care.

At the November 2024 inspection, Ofsted found that staff monitored development, arranged individual support with parents and outside professionals where needed, and helped children make good progress from their starting points.

Communication with families in November 2024 included daily updates and an online app covering care and learning. Staff wellbeing also received practical attention through a dedicated room for mindfulness sessions, training and individual and team meetings.

The address is East Lodge, Milton Hill, Steventon, Abingdon OX13 6BD.

In November 2024, opening hours were 7.30am to 6pm on weekdays, throughout the year. At that time, the nursery offered government-funded childcare and received funding specifically for disadvantaged children.

• Language and processing time. The November 2024 improvement priorities included giving children more opportunity to absorb information. Listen for pauses and responsive conversation during a visit.
• The rhythm after lunch. In November 2024, a cramped book activity contributed to brief disagreements and reduced engagement. Daily routines needed to respond more consistently to children's needs; the organisation of this part of the day deserves attention.
• Planning attendance. The November 2024 opening window covered weekdays across the year. What current booking patterns and funded-hours arrangements would fit your family?

Little Fishes suits families who value practical independence, communication through words and signs, and regular contact about their child's day. The November 2024 Good judgement sits alongside two clear priorities: slower communication and more responsive routines. Those everyday interactions matter as much as the activities themselves.