Deerlands Day Nursery in North Fambridge praised by Ofsted

Deerlands Day Nursery, in Ferry Road, has been rated “good” in all areas after an inspection on March 7.

The nursery provides care and education for children aged four and under, with 74 children currently on roll.

Inspectors found that “children feel safe and secure” and that “staff create environments that are inviting and stimulating and support all areas of learning”.

The report highlighted the “robust key-person system” which ensures children form “strong and nurturing attachments with staff from the start”.

The nursery was praised for its “good knowledge of how children learn,” with staff embedding a curriculum that supports “sequenced learning effectively through interesting activities and experiences”.

Ofsted inspectors also noted that “staff are excellent role models and speak to children with genuine kindness and respect”.

However, inspectors did note that “at times, staff do not consistently challenge children to extend their learning even further to achieve their next steps”.

The management team was described as “dedicated” and “integral” to the day-to-day running of the nursery, providing “the utmost support to staff, children, and their families”.

Parents were said to “applaud the professionalism and support given by the management team and staff,” expressing “high levels of trust that their children are continuously well cared for and happy”.

The nursery was also commended for its consideration of all languages used by families at home, and its effective use of Makaton sign language to enhance children’s communication skills.