Nursery’s the tops

YOUNGSTERS attending a nursery based at Bicton College are celebrating an outstanding Ofsted report.

Government inspectors said children attending the Saplings Children's Centre flourish in the safe and welcoming environment, and are highly valued as individuals.

The Ofsted report said throughout the centre, children were happy, settled and secure.

Inspectors said they enjoyed their time in the 'welcoming and stimulating environment' where they are very well cared for and highly valued by staff who know them well.

The team also said the children made 'very good' progress in their learning due to staff knowledge in promoting learning through play, exploration and purposeful activities.

And the children's behaviour was also praised by the inspectors.

Sue Mcgann, nursery manager said: "Our job is made so much easier by having not only a great team of staff and parents in partnership, but also having such a unique setting in the grounds of Bicton College.

"This enables us to provide such fantastic opportunities for the children in our care to thrive in all areas of their development.

"To make the most of our rural surroundings, we operate an open door policy allowing the children the free choice to spend as much of their day as they wish inside or outside to take part in their chosen activity.

"Forest school sessions are run throughout the week providing an exciting extension to the children's learning environment."

Parent Giselle Beasley said: "I'm delighted with the Ofsted grade, as are all the parents. In our view, the nursery has always been outstanding."

The Saplings Children's Centre, which has been open since 2003, is for children aged three months to five years.