Ellesmere Port nursery graded ‘strong’ by Ofsted

A Cheshire nursery which offers “a safe and welcoming environment in which children can flourish” has achieved ‘strong standard’ across all evaluation areas following an Ofsted inspection.

According to regulator, this means leaders at Partou Sunny Days Day Nursery and Pre-school in Ellesmere Port are working above the expected standard.

The final report adds: “Everything staff and leaders do is for the benefit of the children in attendance.”

Ofsted recently changed the way early years settings are graded, replacing the previous single-word judgements with a new framework that focuses on safeguarding and six additional evaluation areas: inclusion; curriculum and teaching; achievement;
behaviour, attitudes and establishing routines; children’s welfare and wellbeing; and leadership and governance.

Situated close to Ellesmere Port Hospital, Partou Sunny Days offers a convenient day-care option to parents working in the centre of town, as well as the surrounding areas of Whitby, Great Sutton, Hope Farm and Whitby Heath.

In her report, the Ofsted inspector describes children attending the nursery as “happy and settled.”  She writes: “Children progress steadily throughout the provision, building on what they know and can do, and extending their learning further. Progress is continually monitored to ensure any gaps in learning are swiftly identified, and children’s next steps accurately reflect their developing abilities. As such, children are ready to flourish as they move on to school.”

Team members are praised for implementing a consistent and secure approach to inclusion across the setting.  The inspector notes: “Staff are confident about children’s individual needs and are responsive to them. Children with barriers to their learning are swiftly identified and plans put in place to support their progress.”

And partnerships between team members and families are said to be “excellent.”   The report explains: “Leaders and staff work closely with parents and form positive relationships to ensure a coordinated approach to children’s learning. Parents thrive with how they are involved in the setting and their child’s learning. They benefit from shared opportunities to engage with other parents, such as through stay and play sessions. This helps families who may be isolated to meet new people and share their experiences.”   

Lauren Taylor, Partou Sunny Days Nursery Manager, said:

“I am incredibly proud to lead such a dedicated team, all of whom share the same vision:  to ensure our children are happy, confident and curious learners who are fully prepared for the next stage in their lives.”
 
“We take great pride in creating nurturing environments that support high-quality teaching and learning, allowing every child to truly flourish.”

“I am delighted that this has been reflected throughout our Ofsted report.”

Samantha Rhodes, Partou Managing Director, said:

“Meeting ‘strong standard’ is an exceptional achievement under the new framework and reflects the dedication, professionalism and passion of the entire team.”

“Several members, including Lauren, have been at Sunny Days for a number of years, providing stability and consistency to children and families.”