The nursery and preschool near Surrey loved by Ofsted where kids are constantly smiling

A nursery school on the Surrey borders has recently been rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted inspectors. Dicky Birds Maple Road Day Nursery and Preschool, in Surbiton, impressed across the board, when they were visited in May.

Dicky Birds, which takes both infants and toddlers, was praised both for “the very strong” relationships children have developed with staff as well as for the education provided for children.

The report said: “Staff are exceptionally skilled at supporting children's language skills..Younger children gain confidence in their abilities as they enthusiastically join in with their favourite songs and rhymes. Children play very well together.Toddlers sit and giggle together on the sofa and pre-school children cooperate to plan a pizza-making activity."

The report also spoke about how well children adapted to school life, stating “Babies enjoy cuddles and smile at familiar staff, and older children excitedly chat about their home lives. Staff follow children's individual routines meticulously, which helps children to settle well and feel safe and secure at the nursery.”

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The inspector also noted that “partnerships with parents are extremely good. Parents receive regular updates about their child's development and take home resource bags to continue their children's learning at home, such as learning about brushing their teeth. Staff plan a variety of social events to build relationships even further, which parents say create a strong sense of community and give children a sense of belonging.”

One parent commented that “The result of the Ofsted report was not a surprise to us. Our little one started her journey at Dicky Birds Maple Road in January 2024, after her first birthday, it didn’t take long for her to settle; now she absolutely adores the staff and the nursery. The team are very approachable, caring, and supportive. We receive frequent updates with pictures and it’s lovely to see the progress she is making as well as the bond she has with her teachers. Once again well done to the team, a very well-deserved result and thank you for everything you do for our children.”

Michelle Tamburrini, Regional Manager of Dicky Birds nurseries at Grandir UK, comments “I am absolutely thrilled that our exceptional Nursery Manager and her dedicated team have achieved an Outstanding on their recent Ofsted report. It’s a testament to the knowledge, dedication, and passion they display every day in providing exceptional childcare and rich, meaningful learning experiences.”

The nursery and preschool is part of prominent nursery group Grandir UK and is situated at the junction of Maple and Claremont Road in Surbiton. It is just a short distance from Surbiton train station, and around a five minute drive from the Surrey Border at Long Ditton.

The latest OFSTED report comes as an improvement from the previous ‘requires improvement’ last year. Now the ‘Outstanding’ shows an improvement with the curriculum which is now an area singled out for praise.

In particular the report stated “Children develop extremely positive attitudes to their learning. For example, toddlers persevere to put their shoes on by themselves. Staff support younger children to develop their concentration skills, such as by repeatedly spinning metal bracelets, which babies find fascinating.”

More information on Dicky Birds Maple Road Day Nursery and Preschool in Surbiton, can be found here .

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