Children make 'exceptional progress' at this north Leeds nursery - Ofsted

Children make “exceptional progress” at a nursery in north Leeds, according to Ofsted inspectors.

The Counting House Nursery, located on Cardigan Road, Headingley, scored a ‘Strong standard’ rating in all six inspected categories during an Ofsted visit on June 30 this year.

Inspectors adjudged the nursery to have reached the standard in the areas of achievement, behaviour, attitudes and establishing routines children's welfare and wellbeing, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, and leadership and governance.

The site, previously called ‘The Montessori Nursery At Headingley,’ was rated as Good under Ofsted’s old scoring system in a 2021 inspection.

“Children make exceptional progress as they move through the setting,” the education watchdog said. “They manage transitions confidently, showing emotional security and adapting quickly to new routines.

“The setting demonstrates consistently high-quality practice, underpinned by secure keyworker relationships and practitioners who speak confidently and precisely about each child's development.”

Leaders and practitioners at Counting House identify children's needs swiftly from the earliest stage, according to the report. Aspirational vocabulary and rich learning opportunities promoted regardless of any barriers to children's learning.

They set “high expectations” and articulate a clear, ambitious vision that shapes practice consistently across the setting. Their strategic direction ensures that every decision is rooted in what children need to thrive.

The curriculum structure enables children to revisit, practise and embed key skills. Planning documents are evident in all rooms and updated frequently. Staff speak confidently about what children are learning and why.

Children demonstrate consistently positive behaviour because the provision is deliberately structured to promote independence, engagement and clear routines.

Inspectors added: “Children at this nursery are exceptionally well cared for by staff who know them closely and respond promptly to their individual needs. Practitioners take time to understand each child's unique personality, preferences and developmental stage, enabling them to offer sensitive, attuned support throughout the day.

“Children are happy, settled and clearly enjoy being in the nursery. They form wonderful relationships with their peers, developing friendships that help them feel secure and confident as they play and learn.”

The setting considers vulnerable families, providing access to a 'baby bank' that offers essential items, according to the report. Room-level adaptations, particularly in pre-school, demonstrate “thoughtful and inclusive practice.”

Children show sustained progression in their self-care skills, confidently using cutlery, carrying trays and pouring their own water with increasing independence.

Focusing on next steps, the report said that leaders should “sustain strong teaching” by ensuring all staff build knowledge through ongoing professional development so that the whole team remains consistently high performing.