A nursery where children are described as “happy and settled” still 'needs attention', Oftsed say, after inspectors identified gaps in learning.
Apple Blossom Day Nursery in Sunderland received an inspection in May, with Ofsted noting key areas requiring improvement, including achievement, inclusion, leadership, curriculum and teaching.
However, the report found that children are happy, settled, and familiar with daily routines.
Staff were also praised for their engagement with parents and carers and for ensuring children feel comfortable and supported.
The report said: "Staff know the babies in their care really well - they are very attentive to them and are quick to meet their individual needs."
The nursery was recognised for creating a nurturing environment, with children forming secure attachments with adults and receiving support with personal care routines, including feeding and toileting.
However, while children were found to be making progress in prime areas of learning, the report identified gaps in mathematics and literacy, noting that children are "not stretched as much as they could be and so are not as well prepared for the next stage of their learning."
The setting has recently undergone a period of change and transition, with two previously separate nurseries combining.
The report found that this resulted in changes to leadership and other roles, with some staff still getting used to new responsibilities.
The report also found that staff do not always assess children’s capabilities accurately, especially those showing advanced skills, which results in missed opportunities to further challenge and support those children’s learning.
It stated: "This means that children are not making as much progress as they could with more targeted and specific support."
Ofsted found that the curriculum lacked clear planning or intention for outdoor learning.
The report also highlighted inconsistent support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and incomplete two-year progress checks that do not specify actions to address learning concerns.
Apple Blossom Day Nursery has been contacted for comment.
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