Cheshire nursery where children develop 'exceptionally' as new Ofsted report published

-Credit: (Image: Google)
-Credit: (Image: Google)


A Cheshire nursery has been praised for its "exceptional" support of the development of its young children. Corner House Nursery in Congleton was rated 'good' in an Ofsted report published this month.

The nursery was rated outstanding in every area during its first inspection in 2018. Ratings have since fallen to ‘good’ across three of four measures at the nursery, but personal development is still rated ‘outstanding’.

The nursery supports 90 children aged between one and four years old and employs 19 members of childcare staff. The inspector described personal development at the nursery as "exceptional".

The inspector writes that “children's confidence flourishes and they are exceptionally prepared for new environments," and that “Children thrive through exceptional indoor and outdoor opportunities that enhance their physical development."

“Children are deeply engaged in rich experiences to learn about cultural festivals,” writes the inspectors, adding that older children learn sign language and “gain a rich understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.”

Two points were identified as areas for improvement. The inspector noted that the good knowledge of child development held by the staff is “not applied consistently in practice,” for instance, toilet training sometimes begins when children are not ready.

Additionally, although staff encourage children’s positive behaviour, the unwanted behaviour of older children is not always met with “clear messages to help them understand and learn what is expected of them.”

“Consequently,” the inspector writes, “children do not always understand the importance of following rules.”

The inspector praised the management team’s “ambitious vision for providing high-quality care and education," and staff were praised for their enthusiasm, skillful teaching and their support of the children, with the inspector saying staff “build secure attachments with children of all age groups.”

Staff focus strongly on developing communication skills and extending the vocabulary of the children, who behave generally well, listening and responding positively to adults and each other, according to the Ofsted inspector. The nursery was praised for its extremely inclusive and supportive approach for all children, as well as its strong partnership with parents, providing emotional support and personalised attention to both parents and children.

“Gaps in learning are swiftly identified,” the inspector wrote, adding that children with special educational needs and disabilities make good progress.

The inspector writes that “children quickly learn empathy and begin to understand and express their emotions” due to staff prioritising opportunities to develop children’s emotional language.

Staff encourage children to be independent, including by allowing them to serve their own food and pour their own drinks at mealtimes.

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