Marys Little Lambs Staincross

About this day nursery

Marys Little Lambs Staincross, established in 2023, operates as a childcare setting on non-domestic premises in Barnsley, catering for children aged 0-4 years. Open Monday to Friday, all year round, excluding bank holidays, sessions run from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm.

The day nursery received a 'Good' rating in its latest Ofsted inspection on 8 April 2025. Leaders at Marys Little Lambs Staincross have developed an ambitious curriculum, ensuring that all children make good progress across the seven areas of learning.

Staff are knowledgeable about child development and tailor their approach to individual needs. The day nursery places a strong emphasis on communication and language, physical development, and personal, social, and emotional development, building a solid foundation before moving on to specific areas like mathematics.

Staff maintain high expectations for behaviour, teaching children how to resolve conflicts and encouraging long periods of concentration. They respond warmly to children, assisting with self-care and safety, such as explaining the importance of sun cream and putting on sun hats for outdoor play.

The nursery effectively supports children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, with leaders collaborating closely with parents and other professionals to provide targeted support and monitor progress. This ensures all children thrive, and families report feeling well supported.

Daily information sharing with parents, both in person and via an online app, and regular key-person meetings contribute to this strong partnership. Leaders also foster a culture of continuous improvement among staff through observations and shared ideas, ensuring consistently high-quality practice.

What it's like

Leaders have created an ambitious curriculum and staff know the children well, ensuring all make good progress. Staff have high expectations of children's behaviour, supporting them to manage conflicts and concentrate for long periods. They respond warmly to children's needs, helping them with self-care and safety.