Ellesmere Port nursery graded ‘strong’ by Ofsted

March 17th, 2026

Ofsted recognises Partou Sunny Days for its nurturing approach, strong inclusion and excellent partnerships with families. Learn more about what impressed inspectors.

Team members and children from Partou Sunny Day Day Nursery & Pre‑school in Ellesmere Port stand outdoors holding a sign reading “Strong Standard Across All Areas” following their Ofsted inspection

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.”

Find out how children flourish at Sunny Days

If you’re looking for highly rated childcare in Ellesmere Port where children are happy, settled and supported to flourish, and where strong partnerships with families help every child reach their potential, we’d love to welcome you to Partou Sunny Days

Related news

Image of brunette, curly haired Dr Karen Boardman - Partou Group SEND and Inclusion Lead, smiling and wearing a red blouse whilst standing in front of a large tree.
Partou appoints SEND and inclusion leader to frontline role

We are delighted to welcome Dr Karen Boardman to Partou as our Group SEND and Inclusion Lead.

Read more about Karen's expertise and passion for SEND and Inclusion in early year education and care.

Read more

Chef from Partou Progress House Day Nursery & Pre-School celebrating a Chef of the Year shortlist, standing in a white chef
Market Harborough nursery chef nominated for national award

Naiane Serafin Godinho, Nursery Chef at Partou Progress House in Market Harborough, has been shortlisted for Chef of the Year at the National NMT Nursery Awards 2026.

Nursery Manager Nina Halls shares what makes Nai's passion for early years nutrition stand out.

Read more

Partou Alexandra Day Nursery & Pre-School team celebrating Sustainable Nursery of the Year award recognition, holding an award certificate in front of the nursery entrance, framed by striking red, white and gold balloons and green foliage decorations.
Redditch nursery shortlisted for prestigious national award

Partou Alexandra in Redditch has been shortlisted for Sustainable Nursery of the Year at the National NMT Nursery Awards 2026.

Nursery Manager Holly Browning explains how the team reuses and repurposes before buying new, and why the children are part of it.

Read more