College nursery given top marks by inspectors

The children’s nursery at The Sheffield College’s Hillsborough campus, on Livesey Street, has been graded as outstanding by Government education watchdog, Ofsted.

The nursery, which has 53 places, looks after the children of staff, students and parents within the local and wider community.

Inspectors have given staff a glowing report praising them for being highly skilled, well qualified and very experienced. The quality of teaching is excellent.

Babies and children settle in quickly and develop high levels of confidence, which provides them with an excellent foundation for their future learning.

Jason Pepper, executive director of finance and resources at The Sheffield College, said: “We are thrilled to receive such a glowing report from Ofsted about our outstanding nursery, which plays an important role looking after the children of students, staff and members of the wider community.

“I am very proud of our staff and would like to congratulate them on their success.”

Harry Harpham, Sheffield Brightside and Hillsborough MP, said: “It’s important to encourage lifelong learning and, for parents wanting to learn, childcare shouldn’t be a barrier.

“This announcement should leave them feeling confident that their children are receiving outstanding care while they are able to gain new skills.”

The Sheffield College has two children’s nurseries with the other based at City campus, Granville Road.

Both nurseries open all year round, including term time. They cater for children aged six-months to five-years-old, and offer holiday care for children up to seven.

At Hillsborough campus, the nursery has undergone a £50,000 revamp thanks to funding from The Sheffield College and a £32,600 grant from Sheffield Council.

Nursery places have increased from 40 to 53 and a new baby room has been built.

The nursery has expanded its places for two-year-olds, so they can benefit from the 15 hours a week of free learning they are entitled to.