Have you ever wondered how nurseries handle the pressure of an inadequate Ofsted rating? Well, St Wilfrid’s Nursery in Longridge just gave a masterclass in turning things around.

After being rated as ‘inadequate’ previously due to concerns over safeguarding and management, the nursery’s latest inspection on September 10 brought a refreshing ‘good’ rating. This comes as a result of significant improvements in leadership, management, and overall care quality.

The initial ‘inadequate’ rating stemmed from concerns about safeguarding procedures, which the nursery was quick to address. The latest Ofsted report, published on October 8, commended the nursery for making the necessary improvements in key areas. Children are now said to be “safe and well cared for” and enjoy learning in a supportive environment.

Leadership and management were highlighted as key areas of improvement, with staff benefiting from a well-structured training programme. The inspectors praised the nursery for its attention to cultural diversity and celebration of various festivals, which has helped children develop respect for others. The staff’s role in promoting hygiene and setting an example for the children was also singled out for praise.

The nursery’s support for children with special educational needs received positive recognition as well. Staff work diligently to foster communication and language skills, preparing the children for school life. The nursery’s broad curriculum offers a solid foundation for children’s learning, although the report mentioned that staff could benefit from a clearer understanding of the key steps in children’s development.

Despite this critique, the literacy curriculum has made progress, with staff introducing keywords and phrases to enhance children’s language skills. Parents have also shown their approval, with many expressing satisfaction with the nursery’s efforts and saying that their children love attending.

The report made it clear that safeguarding measures are now effective, with an open, positive culture ensuring that the children’s needs remain the priority. The nursery’s efforts to turn things around are not only visible in the Ofsted rating but also in the everyday smiles of the children who now enjoy a safer and more enriching environment.

Case Study: Turning Inadequate into Good – The St Wilfrid’s Story

St Wilfrid’s Nursery wasn’t always the shining example of improvement it is today. Following an ‘inadequate’ Ofsted rating, the nursery faced the challenge of addressing serious concerns about its safeguarding policies. Parents were understandably worried, and the team had to work fast to rebuild trust.

The turning point came when new leadership took charge. The management team implemented a rigorous training programme for staff, focusing on child protection, hygiene, and educational development. Every staff member received thorough guidance on how to create a safe, supportive environment where children could thrive.

One of the key steps was addressing the safeguarding concerns raised in the Ofsted report. The nursery adopted a new safeguarding policy and provided staff with the tools to identify risks and respond to potential issues. This renewed focus on safety created a significant improvement in the nursery’s day-to-day operations.

The next area of focus was educational development. The staff was trained on delivering a broader curriculum that promoted not only basic learning but also cultural awareness. Children were taught to appreciate diversity by celebrating various festivals, and their learning environments became rich with activities designed to promote respect for others.

Parents were also involved in the turnaround. Regular communication with families helped rebuild trust, and many parents provided feedback on the improvements they noticed. One parent mentioned, “I can see how much happier my child is at the nursery now. The staff are more engaged, and the activities are really helping my child grow.”

“Staff now benefit from a well-planned training programme to ensure they can fulfil their roles with confidence and skill.” – Ofsted Report

St Wilfrid’s now stands as a model of how a childcare provider can make a comeback from an Ofsted report that might have sunk others. The leadership, combined with staff dedication and parental involvement, helped restore the nursery’s reputation and ensured a brighter future for the children attending.