We are exceptionally happy and proud to announce that Snapdragons Cribbs Causeway has been judged Outstanding in its first Ofsted inspection since opening in late 2020. The inspectors found the nursery to be Outstanding in all areas and commented that parents are full of praise for the dedicated staff team.

The inspectors pointed to the “very nurturing and affectionate care” for babies and children which is conducted with “warmth and respect”. They said, “New children are very sensitively supported to settle with caring attention from staff who build their confidence and let them explore at their own pace. Throughout the nursery, children form secure emotional attachments with the staff. They demonstrate a real sense of belonging and visibly flourish. This close and genuine environment is evident to all. Parents are full of praise for the dedicated staff team.”

“The extremely conscientious staff team effectively implement the nursery's clear intentions and targeted curriculum. Each child's key person diligently monitors their progress and effectively supports any developmental delays. This leads to unique targeted support, such as highly effective small group sessions to build children's listening, attention, language and social skills.”

Healthy lifestyles, literacy skills, physical and emotional development, partnership with parents, safeguarding and staff wellbeing were all picked out for praise in the report which also said that children who speak English as an additional language “swiftly become confident communicators”. In their assessment the environment of the nursery supported the excellent work the staff do, with cosy book corners and a dedicated children’s kitchen for healthy cooking activities.

“Children have superb opportunities to develop healthy lifestyles. Outdoor areas offer children rich exciting areas to explore, to build their physical skills and strength. The nursery's full-time cook provides nutritious meals. She ensures children's dietary requirements are strictly adhered to. She also leads interesting and very useful cooking activities and older children have great fun making wholemeal bread.”

Manager, Sam Charalambous, was praised by the inspectors who said, “Leadership and management are inspirational. The new manager's passion for her work, her high attention to detail and excellent leadership inspires her team. The drive for improvement is exceptionally well supported by the senior leadership team from the nursery's parent company. There is rigorous monitoring of all aspects, educational programmes, staff practice and children's progress.”

Sam was understandably delighted with the outcome, “I am so incredibly proud of our team who have all worked so hard to make this nursery what it is. Their love of the children and determination to make this a nurturing place to grow and learn is what shines through in this report. It’s no small thing to be rated Outstanding in a first inspection and it’s all down to my fantastic team, so I’d like to say a huge thank you to them all”.

The team were treated to a celebration meal in recognition of their amazing achievement. We couldn’t be prouder of them and the amazing job they’ve done, working together to make their nursery truly outstanding. Well done Team Cribbs Causeway!

You can read the full report here 50209088 (ofsted.gov.uk)