The Willows Preschool - Sherwood, Nottingham

Ofsted inspections have changed, which means nursery reports now look a little different for families.

Instead of one overall grade, nurseries are now assessed across several separate areas, giving parents a clearer picture of what is working well and where a setting is continuing to develop.

We’ve put together a simple guide to explain what has changed, what the new terms mean, and how this helps families when choosing a nursery.

Read the full guide here.

Understanding the New Ofsted Inspections: A Guide for Parents – The Willows Preschool – Sherwood, Nottingham Choosing a nursery is one of the biggest decisions a family makes, and an Ofsted report is often part of that choice. From November 2025, the way nurseries are inspected and graded changed. Here is a guide to what is different and, more importantly, what it means for you and your child. What has act...

Looking for your next role in early years?

When you join our team, you’ll have access to a benefits package designed to offer support at work and beyond.

Our staff benefits include confidential 24/7 wellbeing support through Health Assured, structured counselling, life and leadership coaching, virtual GP access, menopause support, work health assessments, occupational health support, the Wisdom app and online portal, income protection, life insurance and death in service.

We also offer practical everyday benefits, including uniform support, food and snacks at work, wellbeing treats, duvet days, flu jabs, wellbeing baskets, mileage payments when covering at other nurseries, annual leave incentives for long service and a recommend a friend bonus.

For some roles, a joining incentive may also be available, paid 50% when you start and 50% when you pass probation.

Get in touch to find out more about our current vacancies.

A nature scavenger hunt is a simple way to turn a walk or outdoor play into a learning adventure at home.

As children search, spot and talk about what they find. From spotting leaves and flowers to feeling bark, grass, stones and petals, every discovery supports curiosity, sensory exploration, language development and early learning.

Why not try one together today and see what natural treasures you can discover?

It's World Environment Day tomorrow and we’re encouraging little explorers to look a little closer at the world around them.

Building a bug hotel is a simple, hands-on activity that helps children learn about nature, habitats and the important role minibeasts play in our environment.

Find out how to make your own with this guide from the Woodland Trust:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/blog/2026/02/how-to-make-a-bug-hotel/

We care deeply about every child who walks through our door, so hearing how happy and settled they are makes all the difference.

Thank you to the families who trust us with their children, it's a privilege we never take for granted.

If you'd like to see what makes our nursery so special, we'd love to show you around. Send us a message or visit our website to arrange a visit.

Why Social Skills Matter More Than Ever in Early Years Education – The Willows Preschool – Sherwood, Nottingham Learning social skills is an important part of every child’s early years journey. From sharing toys and taking turns to building friendships and learning how to express emotions, these everyday experiences help children grow in confidence and develop important life skills. In a nurturing nursery e...

💛 Social skills are an important part of helping children build confidence friendships and emotional wellbeing. 🌱✨ Through play and supportive interactions children learn valuable skills that prepare them for school and everyday life. Read our latest blog here: https://thewillowspreschool.com/why-social-skills-matter-more-than-ever-in-early-years-education/

✨ Spaces Available

📞 0115 967 6051
💻 www.thewillowspreschool.com
❤️ Arrange a visit and meet our supportive preschool team.

How Walking Helps Children Build Confidence, Independence, and Healthy Habits – The Willows Preschool – Sherwood, Nottingham At The Willows Preschool, outdoor learning and exploration are an important part of helping children grow in confidence and curiosity. Walk to School Week is a great reminder of how walking can support children’s independence, wellbeing, and awareness of the world around them. Why Walking Is Impor...

World Baking Day 2026: How Simple Baking Activities Help Children Learn and Grow – The Willows Preschool – Sherwood, Nottingham At The Willows Preschool, we encourage children to explore, discover, and learn through engaging real-life activities. World Baking Day is a great opportunity to celebrate how baking supports children’s independence, curiosity, and confidence while making learning fun and memorable. Why Baking Is ...

🚶‍♀️ Walk to School Week is a wonderful reminder of the benefits outdoor activity brings to young children. 🌿✨ Walking supports healthy habits independence confidence and early road safety understanding in a fun and active way. Read our latest blog here: https://thewillowspreschool.com/how-walking-helps-children-build-confidence-independence-and-healthy-habits/

✨ Spaces Available

📞 0115 967 6051
💻 www.thewillowspreschool.com
❤️ Arrange a visit and meet our supportive preschool team.