Last month, Pelican Place Nursery received an Outstanding rating from Ofsted, marking a significant achievement for our dedicated team, children, and families. We sat down with our team to reflect on this incredible recognition and what it means for the nursery and our community.
How did you feel when you received the good Ofsted rating?
Our team’s reaction was pure joy and excitement! “We cried, shouted, and cheered like we’d won a goal!”. The inspection day was emotional for all of us. We were overwhelmed with pride as the inspector recognised everything we’ve worked so hard to build.
We were so proud. The inspector saw what we believe in, it was a day I’ll never forget!
toni o’brien / nursery manager
What contributed most to receiving this positive rating?
The Ofsted inspector was impressed by the seamless integration of our curriculum, team knowledge, and deeply embedded values. She even said “If there was a nursery like this closer to home, it’s where I’d want my own child to go” which meant a lot to the team.
Lurice, an Early Years Specialist, emphasised the impact of the positive and calm approach of the inspector, which allowed her to see our nursery at its best. “She picked up on everything that mattered, the relationships, our focus on each child’s development, and the way we create a nurturing, safe environment.”
The bond between the team, children, and parents was noted as outstanding. It’s the heart of what makes our nursery so special.
Lurice Schofield / early years specialist
Can you highlight some of the strengths noted in the Ofsted report?
The Ofsted report was filled with positive remarks about our approach. It praised how our curriculum encourages children to find their voice and fosters mutual respect between team and children.
The report highlighted how children confidently approach staff, share big hugs, and thrive in an environment full of curiosity and patience.
Children enter a heart-warming environment where they feel respected, valued and
ofsted report
loved by staff and each other.
How do you plan to maintain and build on this positive rating?
While we’re incredibly proud of our achievement, we know the journey doesn’t stop here. We’re committed to continuous growth, both in the development of our team and expanding our engagement with the community.
“We’ve already begun working on extending the curriculum to include more involvement with the community. Next week we have a parent bringing along a police car, to allow the children to experience it first-hand. We also have projects like our community fridge to support those in need and regular library rhyme times.”
In addition, we’re focusing on sustainability by improving our garden space, growing vegetables with the children, and using more wooden resources in daily activities.
What does this rating mean for the nursery and parents?
For our nursery, this rating affirms the dedication of our team and the trust placed in us by parents. One parent shared, “Wow, this is an amazing achievement! I’m not surprised at all though, everyone speaks so highly of Pelican. This is thoroughly well deserved – congratulations!”
Very much deserved! The nursery and the team are faultless.
parent of child at nursery
How can parents and the community get involved in celebrating this achievement?
We’ve shared this exciting news with our families and will be celebrating at our upcoming Parents’ Evening. We’ll be marking the occasion with cakes, no-prosecco, and lots of smiles as we reflect on the journey that got us here.
What are the next steps following this rating?
We’re looking ahead to the future and remain open to feedback from our parents and community. We encourage everyone to share their thoughts with us as we continue to improve and provide the best possible environment for our children.
As the Ofsted report stated, “Children enter a heart-warming environment where they feel respected, valued, and loved.” At Pelican Place Nursery, our commitment to nurturing each child’s potential remains stronger than ever.
I joined Pelican Place Nursery in June to offer support, and it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made. The journey has been incredibly positive, and I’ve been welcomed with open arms by the team, families, and children. It’s been inspiring to see how committed everyone is to creating a nurturing environment for the children.
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The support from our Early Years Team has been especially invaluable, and I’ll forever be grateful to have been part of this amazing team and the Outstanding Ofsted achievement. It’s an experience I’ll cherish always
toni o’brien / nursery manager