Children at Little Adventures Nursery in Cheddar, Somerset, are flourishing in a warm and stimulating environment praised by Ofsted for its nurturing and engaging approach. Recently inspected on August 7, the nursery earned a “good” rating across all categories, maintaining the high standards noted in their previous inspection in 2021.
Led by Nursery Manager Evie Llewellin, Little Adventures emphasizes curiosity and exploration as key pillars of its early years education. “This report reflects the care, creativity, and passion that make Little Adventures such a special place for learning,” said Evie, highlighting the team’s dedication.
Operating from Cheddar Business Park, the nursery caters to 95 children from birth to age ten, with 61 places available. Ofsted inspectors commended the quality of education, leadership, personal development, behaviour, and the staff’s deep understanding of each child.
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A standout feature is the innovative sensory experiences provided for babies, incorporating natural materials like herbs, cucumbers, and lemons to stimulate touch, smell, and taste. Creative activities such as bubble wrap painting with flowers help sustain concentration, while older children engage with imaginative play like potion making and drawing treasure maps that promote fine motor skills, problem-solving, and language development.
Mealtimes at Little Adventures also receive praise. Children enjoy delicious home-cooked meals served in a relaxed setting where staff encourage independence, conversation, and turn-taking.
While behaviour is generally well managed, Ofsted noted some inconsistency in reinforcing expectations, recommending stronger teaching strategies to help children understand how their actions impact others. Additionally, holiday period planning needs improvement to better support children’s individual learning progression during these breaks.
The nursery’s ambitious curriculum is carefully structured to nurture confident and capable learners, built around core values like accountability, reliability, care, and honesty. Staff use ongoing assessments to tailor learning goals and support children’s development effectively.
Strong bonds between staff and children were evident, especially with babies who settle quickly thanks to attentive and sensitive care. Partnerships with parents are equally strong, with staff providing frequent communication and home activity ideas that extend learning beyond the nursery.
Safeguarding standards are robust: Ofsted affirmed an open, positive culture prioritizing children’s safety and wellbeing.
With a dedicated team of 20 staff members, including highly qualified and early years-trained professionals, Little Adventures Nursery offers year-round care from 7:30 am to 6 pm on weekdays, including government-funded childcare places.