Bright Horizons Crouch End Fields Day Nursery and Preschool in North London has been praised by Ofsted for helping every child communicate confidently. The nursery achieved a 'Strong Standard' in both inclusion and leadership and governance, with inspectors finding that children thrive, make good progress from their starting point, and are well prepared for school.
Nurture Approach and Makaton
The nursery's core philosophy, known as the Bright Horizons Nurture Approach, focuses on building close relationships and understanding each child's individual needs. As part of this approach, staff help children express themselves using Makaton, a communication system that combines speech with signs and symbols.
Children use signs like 'more', 'please', and 'thank you' during daily routines, and staff adapt their communication methods to suit each child, including those with special educational needs or disabilities.
Tailored Support and Family Partnerships
Ofsted inspectors noted that the nursery team identifies children's needs early and uses "effective assessment and rigorous monitoring" to deliver tailored support. They also praised the nursery's strong relationships with families, describing parent partnerships as "highly effective" and valued by parents.
Staff regularly communicate with families about each child's needs and experiences, helping to ensure consistency between home and nursery.
Additional Support and Facilities
The nursery recognises that every child develops differently and provides a sensory room to help young children build confidence, focus, and social skills. Additional stay-and-play sessions are offered for children who need extra time to settle into nursery life.
Samantha, nursery manager at Bright Horizons Crouch End Fields Day Nursery and Preschool, said: "We want every child to feel that they belong here at Crouch End Fields and that their voice matters. Every child communicates in their own way, and our team takes the time to get to know them, understand their individual needs and find the best ways to help them express themselves and be part of nursery life."
She added: "We're proud of the care our team provides and the way we work together with families to help every child thrive." Bright Horizons Crouch End Fields Day Nursery and Preschool provides care and early education for children aged three months to five years.
