A nursery in Horwich has improved its Ofsted rating to be marked ‘good’ by the education watchdog.
Horwich Day Nursery was graded ‘inadequate’ in April this year after Ofsted raised concerns.
Since then, however, significant efforts have been made to improve its provision and it can now proudly show off its upgraded status.
Ofsted returned to the nursery situated on Church Street in August and noted the turn around that had been made, naming it ‘good’ in all areas.
Inspector Jenny Burgeen was impressed with the happiness and confidence of the children, noting that they develop secure attachments with staff and feel safe while at nursery.
She added: “Children happily share and take turns. They are supported by practitioners who have high expectations for them. As a result, children's behaviour is good.”
Inspector Burgeen’s report drew particular attention to how the children engaged with the ‘sea’ theme, through which the children have been able to develop a number of key skills.
Ofsted labels Horwich nursery 'inadequate'
She said: “They develop their fine-motor skills as they explore the textures of sand and water, carefully squeezing it through their fingers.
“Children explore a small fish tank full of toy sea animals. They talk about the green crab and blue dolphin. Afterwards, they are encouraged to develop their creative skills as they draw what they can see.”
The children’s “love of reading” was also picked out, with Inspector Burgeen saying: “They routinely ask adults to read books to them. Children listen intently as the story is read and confidently ask questions about the pictures.
“Practitioners follow the children's interests as the book stimulates discussions. This supports children's early reading and communication skills.”
It is not just the children who are happier either. Practitioners’ wellbeing has been focussed on in recent months, and they now say they feel valued and supported in their role.
“Practitioners receive regular supervision and access training to develop their practice,” says Inspector Burgeen. “They say the recent changes have resulted in a much happier nursery environment.”
Owner of Horwich Day Nursery Sheen Dad said: “Thank you to all our parents and staff for their ongoing support.
“Staff have worked really hard, and the children are really happy, as are their parents.
“We are proud to be at the heart of the Horwich community.”
If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at lewis.finney@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @lewisfinney18
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