Churchfield Nursery in Highbridge rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted

Churchfield Nursery, part of Churchfield Church School, was rated 'outstanding' in all areas by inspectors earlier this year.

Staff at the nursery were praised for their awareness of how children learn and for ‘skilfully’ inspiring, nurturing and guiding the children in their daily activities.

In her report, inspector Elaine Douglas said: “All interactions with children are of a high quality. Staff have an excellent understanding of how to sequence children's learning. They know the skills they need from babies to prepare them extremely well for their next stages of learning and school.

“Children's behaviour is exemplary. They are given consistent boundaries, while having excellent choices, with a very strong emphasis on respecting all living things. Through new initiatives and training, staff provide expert support for children to learn to manage their emotions.

“The children receive rich experiences. They have healthy meals, care for their teeth, and have opportunities to rest, or be active indoors and outdoors. Staff recognise each child as an individual, and staff caring for babies seek extensive information on their care needs and routines, so babies feel extremely secure.

“Parents confirm the high-quality support they receive and the extensive information they share, to help promote their children's learning at home and nursery. They particularly mention the approachable, knowledgeable staff knowing their children extremely well.

“Staff show children high levels of respect, treat them with kindness and value their opinions.”

Praise was also given to the senior leadership team, which is led by Rebecca Lihou.

Ms Lihou added: “We have such a great team here at Churchfield and we put a priority on building firm foundations for life.

"Part of this is working closely with each family to make sure that we can tailor exactly the kind of learning and experiences which are suitable for each child.”

Churchfield Church School received a 'good' Ofsted rating in Autumn 2021.

Headteacher Ross Minton said: “We are thrilled with this inspection report which reflects the remarkable work done by Rebecca and her team, even during the difficulties of Covid.

“Our nursery is a place where we know children thrive and we know that a first-class nursery experience can set up a child for the best possible future as they move through school.”