Gloucester nursery that supports ‘wellbeing, comfort and enjoyment’ wins Ofsted approval

A Gloucester nursery where “children experience a broad curriculum that supports the seven areas of learning and development” has been praised by Ofsted following an inspection.

In the official report, the inspector observes that team members at Partou Hucclecote Day Nursery and Pre-School “interact positively with children, encouraging early conversation, turn taking and listening skills.”

They add: “Staff understand the importance of preparing children for their next stage and support early skills such as expressing needs, following routines and practising independence.”

Last year, Ofsted changed the way early years settings are graded, replacing the previous single-word judgement with a renewed framework that focuses on safeguarding and a broad range of evaluation areas: inclusion; curriculum and teaching; achievement; behaviour, attitudes and establishing routines; children’s welfare and wellbeing; and leadership and governance.

Safeguarding standards at Partou Hucclecote were deemed to be ‘met’ with the nursery achieving ‘expected standard’ in all six key evaluation areas, recognising that the team are delivering consistently high-quality childcare and education.

The Ofsted inspector notes that children arrive at the setting “to a welcoming and calm environment where they settle and show familiarity with the routines of the day.”

They write: “Across the day, children take part in a mix of child-led play and established routines. They usually respond well to transitions and follow staff guidance as they move from one part of the day to another. Outdoors, children climb, balance, run and explore natural materials, which supports their coordination and early problem-solving. Indoors, they engage in imaginative play, early mark-making, construction and role-play, often sharing ideas with friends.”

The report continues: “Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities take part in activities alongside their peers and receive encouragement to communicate, explore and develop early independence.”

The inspector highlights that “healthy eating is promoted” at the nursery, “and children enjoy balanced meals and snacks. Staff talk to children about food choices and encourage them to try new tastes.”

They add: “Children spend their day in an environment that supports their wellbeing, comfort and enjoyment. They appear settled, engaged and ready to participate in the experiences offered.”

Located close to Gloucester Business Park with easy access to the M5 and A417, Partou Hucclecote provides high-quality childcare to families in Gloucester, Cheltenham, Tewkesbury and Stroud. 

Its spacious playrooms filled with natural light and complemented by impressive outdoor areas, lined by trees and well equipped with a range of fun resources. Read more about the benefits of outdoor play and how our nursery approach supports this.

Sarah Hansen, Partou Hucclecote Nursery Manager, said:

“We are pleased to achieve ‘expected standard’ across all areas and to read the many positive comments in the Ofsted report.

“I am proud to lead an experienced team who have established strong relationships with the children and are wonderfully responsive to their individual needs.”

Sam Sleeman-Boss, Partou Head of Early Years, said:

“Congratulations to the Partou Hucclecote team on their achievement.

“They have created a warm and inclusive environment which is delivering impressive outcomes for early learners and their families.”