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The Play Hut

Ofsted: Good
(Feb 2022)
·
5.0(4 Google reviews) ·347 North Road, Darlington, DL1 3BL · Darlington
Number of places
69 places
Age range
0–5 yrs
Last inspected
Feb 2022
Local authority
Darlington

About this day nursery

The Play Hut, which has been operating since 1998, provides childcare for children aged 0-10 years, Monday to Friday, from 8am to 6pm, all year round. The day nursery registered as "Childcare on non-domestic premises" is located in Darlington, DL1 3BL.

The care provided is rated as "Good" by Ofsted, following its inspection on 22 February 2022. Children are supported effectively, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), through close partnerships with other professionals to ensure continuity of learning.

The curriculum is designed to be interesting and exciting, with staff tailoring support and challenge to individual learning needs. The day nursery places a strong emphasis on developing children's communication and language skills, incorporating songs and stories.

Older children are well-prepared for school, demonstrating focus and concentration in activities like drawing and engaging with mathematical concepts. Children benefit from ample outdoor play, promoting physical development, with younger children enjoying balance bikes and older children learning about plant growth.

" The manager is professional, friendly, and supportive, fostering a positive environment for both staff and families.

What it's like

Children show enjoyment, enthusiasm and excitement in their learning. Staff know them well and use this knowledge to prepare activities which reflect children's interests and broaden their experiences. Staff have high expectations for all children and focus their teaching to close gaps in learning.

Good Ofsted rating0-10 years age rangeAll-year openingStrong SEND supportFocus on outdoor playExcellent communication skills

Pricing & funding

Funding accepted

15 hours — eligible 2-year-olds15 hours — universal (3–4 yrs)

Key facts

Opening hours

Monday to Friday, 8am until 6pm

Term time / All Year

All Year

Registered with Ofsted

1998

Ofsted Inspection

Ofsted rating for The Play Hut

Last inspected 22 February 2022 · Michelle Lorains

Safeguarding effective
Overall effectiveness
Good
Quality of education
Good
Behaviour and attitudes
Good
Personal development
Good
Leadership and management
Good

What it's like to attend

Children show enjoyment, enthusiasm and excitement in their learning. Staff know them well and use this knowledge to prepare activities which reflect children's interests and broaden their experiences. Staff have high expectations for all children and focus their teaching to close gaps in learning.

Inspector highlights

  • The curriculum is interesting and exciting for children.
  • Staff focus on helping children to develop good communication and language skills.
  • Older children are well prepared for the next stages in their learning, such as school.
  • Staff promote children's good health, positive behaviour and independence throughout the nursery.
  • The manager is professional, friendly and supportive to her team and the families who attend.

Areas to develop

  • 1enhance staff's teaching outdoors to maintain the high-quality learning experiences for children and maximise progress
  • 2review the sleeping arrangements for babies, with specific regard to the use of pushchairs.
Inspection #10218256 · Source: OfstedView full Ofsted report

What parents say

Verbatim quotes recorded in the Ofsted inspection

parents say that they are very happy with the quality of communication they receive about their children.

Parents describe her as 'hands on' and 'dedicated'.

Inclusion & environment

How they support every child

SEND provision

Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities are supported effectively. The manager has close partnerships with other professionals and promotes continuity of learning.

Outdoor space

Children benefit from plenty of opportunities to have fresh air outdoors and develop their physical skills. Young children show confidence as they whizz around on balance bikes. Older children learn about how things grow and plant vegetables.

Google Reviews of The Play Hut

5.0
(4 Google reviews)
J_x _x
a year ago

Both my Son's attended the after school club and were very happy and well taken care of. Have other family members attending nursery here and very happy.

Read on Google

Reviews from Google for The Play Hut. See all on Google Maps

Inspection history

Date: September 2008

  • February 2022Good
  • September 2016Good
  • October 2013Good
  • September 2008Good

Frequently asked about The Play Hut

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This listing has been compiled from official Ofsted records, the nursery's own website, details provided directly by the nursery where available, and other trusted public sources. We regularly review and update listings to keep the information as accurate as possible. Learn more