A Leyland nursery where children are “happy and well settled” has achieved ‘expected standard’ across all evaluation areas following an Ofsted inspection.
In their final report, the inspectors praise leaders at Partou Stonehouse Day Nursery and Pre-School in Leyland for creating “an inclusive environment where children and families are welcomed and supported.” They add: “Children demonstrate that they feel settled and secure. They have formed secure bonds with the kind and nurturing staff team.”
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 Stonehouse were deemed to be ‘met’ with the nursery achieving ‘expected standard’ in all six key evaluation areas, recognising that the team are delivering consistently high-quality childcare and education.
The Ofsted inspectors note that leaders “have established routines and expectations across the nursery which staff understand and implement.” Their report continues: “They teach children about the importance of sharing and turn taking with their friends. Children of all ages have a positive attitude to learning.”
The work done by the Partou Stonehouse team alongside external professionals to support children and families where additional help is needed is also highlighted.
The report states: “Staff gather information from families to help ensure children’s care needs are understood appropriately and support continuity between home and the nursery. Leaders provide a dedicated space for parents to link together, share their experiences and access information. This helps parents to feel valued as partners in children’s care and learning.”
Set in a former school building within easy reach of the motorway network and Leyland train station, Partou Stonehouse is a nature-inspired setting that supports children’s development and growth whilst encouraging them to have fun and be curious about the world around them. Its spacious playrooms, filled with educational activities, are complemented by one of the largest outdoor nursery areas in the North West with special soft surface zones for younger children.
Rebecca Rawlinson, Partou Stonehouse Nursery Manager, said: “The positive learning culture at the nursery is very evident in the report, rooted in high standards of behaviour, a relaxed atmosphere and a strong commitment to inclusivity.
“We are pleased at the outcome and look forward to building on our success.”
Sam Sleeman-Boss, Partou Head of Early Years, said: “Rebecca and her team clearly impressed the inspectors with their professionalism and focus on ensuring that every child’s contribution to nursery life is nurtured and valued.
“The report also notes that leaders at Partou Stonehouse are mindful of the wellbeing of team members and ensure that everyone feels valued and supported.”
