Observing, evaluating & developing areas of provision

The nursery environment provides the context for children's play and learning and should be responsive to the particular needs and interests of children within that setting. In order to maintain a high-quality learning environment, and meet the needs of all children, practitioners should adopt a reflective approach to developing the areas of provision they offer.

Of course it is crucial that children are able to revisit experiences and activities so that, over time, they can develop ideas and consolidate learning. Teams should work on the principle that basic provision is offered on a continuous basis to enable this learning 'journey' to take place. Any decisions to change the layout of an indoor or outdoor space, or to reorganise provision within a specific area, should be taken following a period of observation and evaluation. However, within the framework of basic provision there should be flexibility that allows practitioners to respond appropriately in order to motivate children and support learning effectively.