Doncaster nursery praised by Ofsted across all key areas in glowing inspection report

Under the education watchdog's revised early years system, Partou St Mary’s Day Nursery and Pre-school in Doncaster has met safeguarding requirements and attained the 'expected standard' across all six core areas.

The framework, introduced last year to replace single-word grades, evaluates settings on safeguarding alongside inclusion; curriculum and teaching; achievement; behaviour, attitudes and establishing routines; children’s welfare and wellbeing; and leadership and governance.

Inspectors highlighted that nursery leaders hold “high ambitions for all children to reach their full potential.”

The published report also observed: “Parents and carers praise the staff team for the compassion and care that they show towards the children.”

According to the regulator, youngsters form strong bonds with practitioners regardless of their background, noting that “all children”, “including those who are disadvantaged, build positive relationships with staff.”

The inspector added: “Children show that they feel emotionally secure in their care. As a result, they become confident and develop their independence.”

Staff members were commended for creating "a curriculum that is tailored to meet the needs of all children.”

Detailing how practitioners guide youngsters, the inspector wrote: “Staff use their assessments of children's development and work with parents and carers to decide what children need to learn next.

They consider how they will plan activities and experiences to support all children to work towards these next steps in their learning. They understand the skills that children need to develop before moving on to the next stage in their education.

As a result, children are well-prepared to move on to the next aged room in the nursery, or for starting school.” Children are also “supported to share knowledge and experiences about their cultures and home celebrations.”

Situated in the grounds of the original St. Mary’s School, the facility features spacious rooms and a shared garden, catering to families in Bessacarr, Rossington, Littleworth and surrounding areas.

Elaine Oliver, Partou St. Mary’s Nursery Manager, said: “We are pleased with the inspector’s assessment and the many positive comments in the Ofsted report.

Creating a warm and inclusive environment is essential for early years learning, supported by a curriculum that addresses each child’s individual needs.

I am proud to lead a professional team which is delivering a happy, safe and vibrant educational experience for local families.”

Sam Sleeman-Boss, Partou Head of Early Years, said: “Congratulations to Elaine and the team on the Ofsted inspection outcome. Across all our settings, Partou gives every child the freedom to flourish, building their confidence and curiosity. The Ofsted inspector notes that the team’s impressive work empowers children at St Mary’s to be more independent in readiness for their next stage of learning.”