Darnall nursery celebrates outstanding inspection

Children and staff at Darnall Community Nursery after being judged outstanding by Ofsted.

Staff and children at a Sheffield nursery are celebrating after being given an outstanding judgement – for the second consecutive time.

Darnall Community Nursery was praised in all areas for the quality of its provision by inspectors from Government education watchdog Ofsted.

Nursery manager Claire Ward said: “We are extremely proud that a community-led nursery run by its community for its community has achieved this status for the second time in a row.

“It is the third community nursery to have achieved the outstanding judgement in just over a year.

“We were joined by Manor Community Childcare Centre and Ellesmere Children Centre late last year, when they were judged outstanding for the first time.

“For nurseries in three of the most diverse and deprived area in the city that’s a fantastic boost for our communities.

Children and staff at Darnall Community Nursery after being judged outstanding by Ofsted. Pictured are Ameqa Umais, three, Ameeq Khan, three, and Maysa Rostone, two.

“This is testament to the commitment of local volunteers, parents and carers who are dedicated to providing the best start they can for their children and improving longer term outcomes.

“It goes to show that the people who know their communities and the needs of their children best, when consulted and involved in planning provision for their children can achieve outstanding results.”

The management team at the nursery, on Staniforth Road, Darnall, was hailed as ‘inspirational’ and their ‘enthusiasm, passion and high expectations’ shows a drive for ongoing development and continual improvements.

Staff were also praised for getting to know children well and helping them to settle, and for their level of support to disabled children, those with special educational needs and children who speak English as an additional language.

Inspectors found the activities and routines are skilfully adapted and children, who are keen and eager to learn, make excellent progress.

Partnerships with parents were found to be ‘exemplary’ and they are kept up to date with the nursery’s educational programme and are actively involved in supporting their child’s development.