INSPECTORS have praised the “welcoming, homely and nurturing environment” of a Fishponds nursery.
Ofsted visited Little Hayes Nursery School in Symington Road, Oldbury Court in June, for its first visit under a new, more complicated assessment system.
The inspectors said the nursery, which has 109 pupils aged between two and five, met its expected standard in all areas: achievement; attendance and behaviour; curriculum and teaching; inclusion; leadership and governance; and personal development and well-being.
Their report, published in July, said: “Little Hayes is a welcoming, homely and nurturing environment for children to learn in.
“Staff forge close, trusting bonds with both children and their parents and carers quickly. As a result, both children and families experience a deep sense of belonging within the setting.
“Children develop a love of learning through experiencing a wide range of interesting activities that build upon their prior learning.
“Children relish the opportunities to take their learning beyond the classroom into the spacious and well-organised outdoor environment.”
Ofsted said leaders had made “positive changes to both the curriculum and the quality of teaching” since Little Hayes’ last report in 2024, when it was judged to need improvement.
The inspectors said: “Leaders consider carefully how and when children learn vital skills, such as communication and language.
“Staff have an accurate and precise view of how well children are learning.
“By the time children leave Little Hayes, they are confident and independent learners.”
Ofsted says inclusion is a strength of the nursery, where 59% of children are eligible for free school meals and 39% have special educational needs support.
They said: “Leaders strive to ensure that they understand the different backgrounds, views and differences between its diverse range of families, including those who speak English as an additional language.
“Leaders’ decision-making is firmly rooted in children’s best interests.
“There is a clear, shared vision among everyone connected with Little Hayes.”
Head teacher Jet Hayes said: “Our recent end of year family picnic (pictured above) is a wonderful celebration of the positive experience children and their families have whilst attending Little Hayes Nursery School and it illustrates the deep sense of belonging and the highly positive relationships that Ofsted recognised during their inspection.
“The dedication and expertise of our staff team shines through every day, not just when Ofsted come to visit, but I am pleased that Ofsted noted this, alongside how the well-planned curriculum supports children to engage in their learning with interest and enthusiasm.”
Picture: Children, families and staff at the recent Little Hayes family picnic