Smartys School Club overjoyed with ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating

In a recent Ofsted inspection, Smartys Little Willows Pre-School & Smartys School Club, situated within Pirehill First School in Walton, has been rewarded with an ‘Outstanding’ accolade.

A Warm Welcome

“On arrival, children are greeted by an inspirational team of staff with huge smiles and an abundance of enthusiasm.” This heartwarming observation from the Ofsted report paints a vivid picture of the nurturing environment at the setting. Children are not just attendees; they are cherished members of a vibrant community where their confidence and curiosity are cultivated.

A Rich Learning Experience

The setting’s commitment to education is evident. The report highlighted: “The setting has created a broad, ambitious and sequenced curriculum… Staff provide activities that develop, consolidate and deepen children’s knowledge across all seven areas of learning.” Whether it’s hunting for sea creatures in the water or engaging in imaginative play, children are always at the heart of the learning experience.

Communication is Key

In today’s digital age, effective communication skills are paramount. The setting recognises this, creating a “language-rich environment, enabling children to develop excellent communication skills.” Story-time isn’t just about listening; it’s an opportunity to challenge children’s imaginations through skilful questioning.

Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds

The setting doesn’t just focus on mental stimulation. Physical well-being is equally prioritised. Children are treated to “lots of opportunities to be physically active throughout the day.” Whether it’s dancing to nursery rhymes or exploring the great outdoors, the emphasis is on holistic development.

Inclusion at Its Best

The report warmly notes: “Staff strongly promote inclusion throughout the setting. They go to great efforts to ensure that all children feel celebrated.” This inclusive ethos, coupled with the setting’s strong ties with the on-site school, ensures a seamless transition for children, making them feel right at home.

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Safety First

Parents can rest easy knowing their children are in safe hands. The Ofsted report commends the settings safeguarding measures, stating: “All staff have an excellent knowledge of the signs and symptoms that might indicate that a child was at risk of harm.” The setting’s commitment to the safety and well-being of its attendees is unwavering.

Smartys Little Willows Manager Clare Godwin told A Little Bit of Stone:

“I am very fortunate to manage a team of experienced, passionate, and dedicated staff that belong to the Smartys Day Nursery Family.

The rating is something we’re all really proud of as we are currently the only preschool setting in Stone to achieve an outstanding grading.”

For more information on the report, head over to this link on the Ofsted website – Inspection of Smartys School Club

You can also find more information about Smartys on their Facebook page – Smartys Day Nursery.