Ofsted rates Queensbury Private Day Nursery as "Outstanding"

Queensbury Private Day Nursery, in High Street, received an "Outstanding" rating when the education watchdog visited on August 27.

It was the nursery's second inspection in less than six months.

In April of this year, Ofsted gave the lowest rating of "Inadequate".

But, the nursery has vastly improved, securing a clean slate of "Outstanding" across all categories.

Queensbury Private Day Nursery is strong in the service provided to the children, as well as the continual development of staff, to maintain the standards of welfare and teaching.

The nursery currently provides for 52 children between the ages of 1 and 8.

Every child is given the opportunity to flourish and reach their full potential at the nursery.

The report states: "Children of all ages are extremely motivated and keen to learn and show high levels of concentration and enjoyment in their play.

"They develop strong social skills and quickly grow in confidence.

"Babies are curious and show secure emotional attachments to staff.

"Toddlers are inquisitive and delight in exploring the flour, water, bark and sand.

"Older children immerse themselves in imaginative play.

"They dress up as fire and police officers and are extremely articulate, independent and competent learners."

Children at the nursery also display a good sense of what is an appropriate way to act.

The report states: "Children's behaviour is exemplary.

"They have a clear understanding of the high expectations staff have of them.

"Children learn about friendships, responsibility and including others very well.

"Staff consistently praise children for their positive behaviour."

The children's emotional security is also provided for in an expert manner.

This helps to prepare them for the next stage of learning and a move to a new room.

The reporter states: "Staff plan this transition meticulously to ensure that children have the skills and confidence to manage the change successfully."

Parents and teachers have a solid relationship, which further supports success.

There are regular updates about their child's progress and achievements, with parents actively involved in all aspects of nursery life.

The inspector spoke to a number of parents and they commended the nursery.

Heather Palmer, Director at the nursery, said: "We are really pleased with the outstanding rating from Ofsted.

"All the staff in our nursery are extremely dedicated to the learning experiences and promoting the highest development of the children in our care.

"The management team and staff have always worked really hard and obviously this has shown through with Ofsted.

"We would also like to thank all our parents for their endless support and encouragement over the past few months."

To further improve, the report states the nursery should continue to use training and professional development opportunities to maintain the outstanding level of provision.