Ofsted Report – Little Deers Preschool, Nutley

Children are very happy, settled and secure in the welcoming atmosphere.
Staff know all the children well and interact with them with warmth, enthusiasm and care.
The manager is reflective and ambitious. She has a clear commitment to the continuing development of the provision. She leads the staff in reviewing their practice accurately and effectively to help improve learning experiences for children.
Children enjoy a wide range of creative and engaging activities. For example, they consider which animals are found in the Arctic and create their own Arctic scene.
Children acquire good mathematical skills. For example, they identify numerals at snack time and they count out the corresponding pieces of fruit from the bowl.
Staff fully value parents’ involvement in their children’s learning and development. Parents appreciate the successful care practices, such as the effective settling-in process and the quality, personalised care staff give their children.
Children learn to be independent in managing their own needs. This helps prepare them for the next steps in their learning, including school.

Children make good progress in their learning and have a lot of fun as they take part in a broad range of activities.
Staff promote children’s social skills, self-esteem and behaviour very well.
The stimulating environment and good use of resources promotes children’s learning
and development well.
Children receive good support to adopt healthy lifestyles. They enjoy nutritious snacks
and develop independence in their self-care.
Staff provide regularly opportunities for children to engage in the community and learn about their local environment.