Ofsted inspectors have identified several areas that "need attention" at St Michael’s Nursery in Harlesden, finding shortcomings in curriculum delivery, routine management and some hygiene practices despite praise for the setting’s welcoming atmosphere.
Inspection findings and concerns
The report, published earlier this month following an inspection earlier in the year, commended the nursery for offering a "warm and welcoming environment" where children feel included and well cared for. However, inspectors raised a number of criticisms that the leadership team must address to improve the quality of provision.
"raise their voices excessively"
Among the concerns, inspectors observed that staff can:
- Raise their voices excessively, which affects how activities are led and children’s ability to engage;
- Show limited knowledge of the learning intentions behind activities;
- Organise routines ineffectively, leaving children waiting for substantial periods without purposeful engagement;
- Apply expectations inconsistently, so some children miss out on opportunities to practise skills independently and extend learning.
Impact on children’s progress
Inspectors concluded that although staff form positive relationships with children and support basic routines — such as lining up to wash hands after lunch — the weakness in planning and teaching means some activities lack a clear learning purpose. As a result, children often engage only briefly before moving on to something else, and some do not build consistently on what they already know.
The report warns that not all children make the progress they are capable of and some are not fully prepared for the next stage of their learning. The nursery caters for children aged between one and four.
What the inspection cited
Inspectors highlighted five areas that require attention, signalling that the leadership team must take specific actions to deliver improvements. The issues related to curriculum and teaching, pupils’ achievement and welfare, and practical aspects such as hygiene and routine management.
| Area | Issue identified |
|---|---|
| Curriculum and teaching | Some activities lack a clear learning purpose; planning does not support development consistently |
| Pupils’ achievement | Not all children make expected progress; some are not prepared for next stage |
| Welfare and routines | Inconsistent hygiene practice; lengthy waits without purposeful activity |
Local context and next steps
The report makes it clear the setting has strengths in creating an inclusive atmosphere, but that leaders must prioritise clearer planning and staff training so activities have explicit learning aims and children are consistently engaged throughout the day. Parents and carers with children at the nursery may wish to discuss how staff plan learning activities and manage routines with the leadership team.
The inspection outcome means St Michael’s Nursery will be expected to address the identified weaknesses and demonstrate improvements on reinspection.
