A Birkenhead nursery where children’s health and wellbeing are “given the very highest priority” has been described by Ofsted as “a fun place to be, and in turn children are settled and content.”
In the official report following an inspection, leaders and team members at Partou Butterflies Day Nursery and Pre-school in Prenton are praised for designing and delivering “a well-sequenced and ambitious curriculum for all children” and displaying “an unwavering commitment to support progress.”
Ofsted recently 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 Butterflies were deemed to be ‘met’ with the setting achieving ‘strong standard’ for children’s welfare and wellbeing, and ‘expected standard’ across all other evaluation areas.
The Ofsted inspector notes that children “show an impressive sense of belonging and emotional wellbeing.” The report adds: “Children are emotionally connected to the staff who care for them, seeking them out to join in their games. Health, independence, personal development and welfare are extremely well promoted in this setting.”
Partou Butterflies is judged to be “inclusive” with children with special educational needs and/or disabilities benefitting from “carefully considered support.”
The report observes: “There is a tangible atmosphere of calmness created by relaxed and friendly staff. Children and visitors are warmly welcomed, and children skip into the setting each morning, eagerly anticipating the fun that awaits them. Children’s laughter and enthusiasm is infectious. When children giggle, staff smile and the entire room is alight with happiness and enjoyment.”
Following conversations with families as a key part of the process, the inspector states that they “speak positively about their experiences and, in particular, they praise the staff for their kind and affectionate approach.” The report continues: “Parents are welcomed into the setting during stay-and play sessions, which help foster links with home. Furthermore, regular meetings between staff and parents ensure that children’s development is understood by everyone. Children benefit from this joined-up approach between home and the setting.”
Based in a bright and spacious converted Victorian property on Kingsmead Road North, Partou Butterflies provides early years childcare and education for families in Prenton, Oxton, Claughton and surrounding areas of the Wirral.
Each age group has their own separate garden, enabling the children to enjoy outdoor play designed for their stage of development. The setting also has a sensory room which provides a calm, immersive space for children to explore different textures, lights and sounds.
Melanie Fitzpatrick, Partou Butterflies Nursery Manager, said: “The many positive comments from the inspector highlight our total commitment to providing a secure and enjoyable experience for the children as they begin their learning journey.
“Settling into nursery life can be a big transition for children and families alike. The team takes the time to get it right for each family, making sure that everyone feels relaxed and confident.”
Kirsty Jackson, Partou Co-Managing Director, said: “It is a lovely report which is testament to the culture created by the team at Partou Butterflies.”
“Achieving ‘strong standard’ for children’s welfare and wellbeing also underlines how the children achieve and thrive at the setting.”
