Wearside nursery is giving youngsters an outstanding start

Staff and children at Barnwell Daycare, Barnwell Academy, Penshaw, celebrate being rated as Outstanding by Ofsted.

Ofsted inspectors paid a visit to Barnwell Daycare and were very impressed with what they found.

The nursery unit, which is part of Barnwell Academy in Penshaw, was given a glowing report from the watchdogs.

Kirsty Harding, who heads up the daycare centre, said everyone was thrilled with the outcome of the inspection, and will be holding a celebration event when the academy reopens in September.

She said: “It is all down to the dedication of the staff team.

“Everyone has worked really hard for this opportunity to prove what we can do as a setting. To get this confirmation of the good work we do is amazing.”

Ofsted inspectors said the quality of the early years provision in the setting is outstanding in all areas, including leadership, teaching, personal development and outcomes for children.

They said: “The quality of teaching is outstanding. Staff are well qualified and use their knowledge and skills to significantly enhance all aspects of children’s learning and development.

“The daycare leader maintains an excellent overview of the quality of activities and experiences available in the nursery.

“This ensures they reflect children’s interests, their stage of development and cover all areas of learning.

“Children’s assessments are analysed exceptionally well and ensures individual and specific groups of children, who require intervention, receive it at the earliest stage to meet their learning and development needs.

“Support for children who have special educational needs or disability is first class.

“The day-care leader demonstrates incredible passion for working in partnership with parents and external agencies.

“This ensures children receive appropriate support, at the earliest stage, in order to reach their full potential.

“Staff support children’s well-being exceptionally well when they move into the nursery, through each room and when they transfer into school.

“Information sharing with local school teachers is strong and ensures continuity in children’s emotional and physical needs.”

The inspectors went on to say that children show high levels of confidence and negotiate extremely well with each other, respond very well to boundaries and behavioural expectations set by staff and adapt well to changes in their daily routine.