Ofsted has ranked an “exceptionally well-resourced and vibrant” nursery in Knaresborough as ‘good’ in its latest inspection.
Nippers Nursery on Wetherby Road was praised for its outdoor spaces which inspectors found supported a range of educational opportunities.
Visiting at the end of May, they reported children showing “intense concentration” as they learned about nature, giving “exceptional care and concentration” when looking at insects.
The report said:
“Children of all ages show the highest levels of confidence and self-esteem as they immediately settle.
“The eagerness of children wanting their day to begin demonstrates how extremely safe and secure they feel in the nursery.”
Inspectors praised the way staff set out activities to develop children’s skills, from small muscle development and early mark-making to learning new language.
They also highlighted how the nursery encourages children to be independent, such as serving their own food and drinks at mealtimes.
Owner Julie Addyman told the Stray Ferret:
“There has been two new inspection frameworks since we were last inspected six years ago, so we felt that overall the inspection went very well.
“The staff team work so hard and it was good to hear that the inspector could see how fantastic our setting is.”
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The report suggested the nursery could improve by supporting children more with learning numbers and counting through play, and by asking questions which help to develop understanding.
Inspectors added:
“Staff are immensely proud to belong to this vibrant nursery. They are passionate about their work.
“Helping children to flourish and achieve is at the heart of everything the management team and staff do.”
Nippers offers 50 places for children aged up to four and has 18 staff, of whom 15 held early years qualifications at level three or above when inspectors visited.
The last Ofsted inspection, in 2016, rated the nursery ‘outstanding’.
Ms Addyman added:
“I’m sure like many settings, we would welcome a more regular inspection that would be used as it is meant to be – for guidance and support rather than a snap shot judgement of part of a day.
“There was a bit of disappointment that we didn’t receive outstanding but it’s always good to reflect and have a goal to work towards.
“The real judges of our overall performance are the parents and carers that choose Nippers to be part of their family.”