Osmaston Day Nursery’s approach goes beyond the typical expectations of good practice, as staff strive to be inclusive and best serve their families within the diverse community of Allenton in Derby.
Staff identified several challenges obstructing meaningful inclusivity and engagement with parents and endeavoured to overcome them.
One significant issue was the shortage of interpreters available to assist parents whose first language was not English, hindering effective communication with the nursery staff. To tackle this, they took proactive steps to diversify the staff team, deliberately hiring individuals proficient in multiple languages. This not only facilitated smoother communication between parents and staff but also fostered a more inclusive environment where families felt better understood and supported. Currently, the nursery team collectively speaks approximately 15 languages, ensuring language barriers no longer impede meaningful interactions.
A recognition of the importance of empowering parents in their children’s education led to them offering access to ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Language) and basic mathematics programmes. These initiatives have equipped parents, particularly those with limited English proficiency, with the skills to support their child’s learning at home and also supported them to enter the workforce. By promoting parental involvement and providing resources for skill development, the nursery encourages a culture where families feel empowered to play an active role in their child’s education.
An involvement in the local authority’s literacy programme underscores their commitment to enriching the home learning environment. Through tailored home visits and community events, they have created opportunities for families to connect, share
experiences, and access valuable resources promoting literacy and learning beyond the nursery setting. The events also encourage greater social interaction, respect for diversity, and a willingness for parents to seek help when needed. Through the celebration of various cultural festivals in partnership with parents, the nursery further promotes respect and appreciation for different cultures among children and families alike. Special events, such as the nursery’s annual Christmas grotto which is tailored for disadvantaged children, exemplify the nursery’s commitment to inclusivity and generosity. By providing gifts and festive cheer, they aim to bring joy to those who may be facing hardships, fostering a sense of warmth and belonging within the wider community. They also hold creative projects, including crafting Diwali diyas and assembling harvest bags for soup-making, with the aim of children learning to appreciate and honour different cultures and traditions.
The nursery’s community initiatives are grounded in a profound understanding of its community’s diverse needs. By addressing language barriers, empowering parents through skill-building programmes and fostering community engagement, they aim to create an inclusive environment where every child can thrive.
