Crewkerne nursery praised by Ofsted for joyful care and ambitious curriculum
Report by Kelly Leonard for News Advertiser newspapers
Little Beeches Nursery in Crewkerne has been praised by Ofsted for its joyful atmosphere, strong teaching and caring staff. The nursery was rated ‘Good’ in all areas following an inspection by the government office for standards in education.
The nursery, based at Maiden Beech Primary Academy, opened in 2022 and currently has 44 children aged one to four. It offers full-day care from 7.30am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, all year round except bank holidays and Christmas.
Inspectors said: “Children happily enter the nursery, eager and excited. Friendly, enthusiastic staff greet them.” The report praised staff for creating a “safe and stimulating environment” where children “develop a true sense of belonging”.
The curriculum was described as “ambitious and well structured”. Children were seen enjoying learning activities such as sorting coloured counters to explore numbers, or using shape sorters to develop problem-solving skills. The report said staff “carefully considered the sequence in which children develop their skills”.
Communication and language are a key focus. Younger children joined in with “song and rhyme sessions”, choosing props and copying actions. Older children showed interest in stories and listening activities.
The nursery also supports physical development, from babies using play dough and crayons to older children practising balance and coordination. Children are encouraged to be independent, pouring their own drinks and choosing snacks. Inspectors noted that “they manage their self-care effectively, which prepares them well for school”.
Parents were full of praise. The report said: “Parents express great satisfaction with the care and support provided by staff, as well as the substantial progress their children make.” Staff work closely with families to match home routines and share learning goals.
Emotional development, especially for babies, was another strength. “Babies thoroughly enjoy the close relationships they have with familiar staff. They smile as they snuggle their key person,” said the report.
Leaders were praised for supporting staff and encouraging teamwork. Newer staff are mentored and all receive regular feedback to help them improve.
One area for improvement was large group activities, where some children lost focus. Inspectors said: “Staff do not support children during larger group activities as well as they could.”
The nursery’s safeguarding was judged to be effective, with staff clear on their duties. Of the 16 staff, 11 hold a Level 3 childcare qualification. One holds Level 6 and another Level 2. The nursery also offers funded places for two-, three- and four-year-olds.
Ofsted concluded that children at Crewkerne’s Little Beeches are happy, well cared for, and learning well thanks to strong leadership and a dedicated team.
( Photos: Little Beeches Nursery, Crewkerne 📸 )