Shirebrook nursery plunges from 'Outstanding' to 'Inadequate' amid fears over children's safety

Langwith Junction Childcare, otherwise known as Woodhoots, has 64 youngsters, aged three and under, on its books and received the highest praise possible when the education watchdog inspected in 2019.

Even its latest review, held last month, is full of positive praise. But crucially, it also lambasts the nursery for “breaches of requirements that compromise children’s safety”.

Inspector Stephanie North said in her report: “The arrangements for safeguarding are not effective. There is not an open and positive culture around safeguarding that puts children’s interests first.

"Staff do not demonstrate an understanding of who to contact externally should they have a concern about a child. And they do not always follow the correct procedures if they have concerns about a member of staff.”

The inspector said the Burlington Avenue nursery had failed to notify Ofsted about the appointment of new directors “to enable the required suitability checks to be completed”.

Her report went on: “Leaders do not have sufficient knowledge and understanding of when to notify Ofsted of changes and failed to tell us of a significant event regarding a member of staff.

"Although staff undertake training in child protection, they do not demonstrate an understanding of local safeguarding procedures. “

Woodhoots Langwith Junction Childcare has been operating since 2006 and employs 14 members of childcare staff. It is open all year round, Mondays to Fridays, from 7.45 am to 5.45 pm.

The nursery received ratings of ‘Inadequate’ from the inspector for its overall effectiveness, and leadership and management. But on the plus side, it was rated Good’ in the categories that cover quality of education and the behaviour and attitudes of children.

The Ofsted report said: “Children and their families are warmly welcomed into this inclusive nursery. Children build very close bonds with staff and are comfortable to go to them for comfort and cuddles.

“The curriculum is varied and interesting, and children demonstrate high levels of enjoyment, attention, concentration and confidence.”

The health and wellbeing of youngsters was also promoted. “They enjoy a healthy, home-made meal at lunchtimes, and learn about different foods,” continued the report.

The inspector found that the nursery’s team of staff were long-serving, and she described them as ”passionate and dedicated”.

"They report high levels of happiness and wellbeing,” she said. “Regular supervision sessions ensure staff feel supported and appreciated in their roles. Staff attend training that builds their knowledge and skills.”

Ofsted also praised the nursery’s leaders for “building partnerships with parents”, who were “highly complimentary about the staff and how they enable an inspiring, nurturing and warm environment for children”. Staff also offered support and guidance to parents whenever needed.

Such partnership working was “highly effective in meeting the needs of children”, the inspector reported. For example, staff maintained “regular communication with the adjoining school nursery to ensure a seamless transition for children”.

The Chad gave the nursery an opportunity to comment, or issue a statement, in response to the Ofsted judgement. However, manager Vicki Fox said she preferred not to.

The Chad understands that Woodhoots has the full support of parents, and is looking forward to a fresh inspection, which is likely to be during the winter.