As temperatures soared close to 40 degrees on the hottest day in July, the team at Snapdragons Redland shone brightly for their first Ofsted inspection. Despite the intense heat, they kept their cool and were judged to be Outstanding in all areas in their recent Ofsted inspection …. and the inspectors were full of praise.

The report, published in August, describes the inspirational leadership and management, skillful and sensitive staff, and excellent partnership with parents. The inspectors went on to praise the “brilliantly created curriculum” which was described as exceptionally and uniquely well-sequenced.

The report opened:

All children, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), make exceptional progress in this beautiful and inspiring setting. Babies gladly reach out for their key person as their parents drop them off. Toddlers and pre-school children rush with eager anticipation to enter their rooms. They excitedly explore the activities staff have expertly provided for them. The curriculum is exceptionally and uniquely well-sequenced. This ensures all children succeed from the day they start.

Megan Day, Head of Early Years Practice and the Acting Manager and at Snapdragons Redland, was absolutely delighted with the outcome:

“I am incredibly proud of the team at Redland for achieving an Outstanding rating, in our first inspection, in the middle of a record-breaking heatwave!

Having worked so hard to support our children and families through the pandemic, we are thrilled to have come out the other side and been able to showcase the wonderful curriculum and care that the children receive here at Snapdragons.

The inspectors rightly recognised that while our beautiful building provides an impressive backdrop, it’s the staff and children who fill the rooms which make Redland such a special place to be. I can't wait to see what we keep achieving together!”

We’re so proud of the team and happy for everyone at Redland. It’s wonderful to get such a positive report, especially regarding our curriculum and opportunities for learning which are universal across the group.