Seaham day care centre exceeds expectations in latest Ofsted report

Harbour View Kindergarten, in Station Road, Seaham, received “strong standard” in behaviour, attitudes and establishing routines, children’s welfare and wellbeing, inclusion and leadership and governance.

The day care centre also received “expected standard” for achievement, and curriculum and teaching.

According to Ofsted inspectors, children and their families are “at the heart of this inclusive setting”.

The report states: “Children are pleased to be greeted warmly by caring, attentive staff, and leave their parents with ease.

"Positive, nurturing attachments are developed with their key person.

"Children demonstrate that they feel safe, secure and valued.

"They show a clear sense of belonging.”

Inspectors also praised leaders for getting to know families well.

The report states: “Leaders and staff know the families well. They know and understand the area in which the families live.

"Staff develop positive and effective relationships with parents and significant carers.

"Staff work well with parents to ensure they understand the importance of attendance on children's learning and development.”

Harbour View Kindergarten has also been praised for the support it gives children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, with leaders adapting provisions to meet the individual needs of children and their families.

Leaders were given one area to improve in however.

The report states: “Leaders should build on the arrangements for mentoring, coaching and training to ensure that all teaching is of a consistently high standard.”

A spokesperson for Harbour View Kindergarten said: “We are delighted that our hard work has been recognised.

"This achievement reflects the dedication of our entire team who work tirelessly to provide a warm, nurturing environment where every child can thrive.

“We are incredibly proud of the strong relationships we have built with our children and their families, and we are grateful for the trust and support they continue to show us.

"Whilst we are celebrating this wonderful achievement, we remain committed to continuous improvement and will continue striving to provide an even better experience for the children in our care.”

Harbour View currently has nursery places available.