‘Welcoming’ Dulwich Sports Ground nursery wins praise from Ofsted

Partou Dulwich Sports Ground Day Nursery and Pre-school in south east London has received a ‘Good’ rating across all areas of activity by Ofsted.

In her final report, the inspector observes that “children are happy and thrive at this welcoming nursery.”

She adds: “Staff provide a well-planned curriculum that supports children to make good progress in their development.”

Surrounded by 20 acres of playing fields, Partou Dulwich Sports Ground makes excellent use of its access to outdoor space - including a park and woodlands - by providing children with extensive opportunities to have fun and explore.

These activities are complemented by exciting indoor facilities which have been carefully designed with the needs of children in mind.

The Ofsted report praises Partou Dulwich Sports Ground team members for creating “a nurturing environment that helps babies to feel emotionally secure, allowing them to confidently explore their surroundings.”

It continues: “Older children are confident communicators, sharing their thoughts and ideas during story time. Staff bring stories to life with enthusiasm, which encourages children to reflect on their own experiences.”

The nursery environment is deemed to be “calm as staff guide children’s behaviour through gentle reminders, such as using ‘kind hands’ and ‘walking feet’.” The inspector writes: “Older children demonstrate kindness and care towards the younger children, fostering an atmosphere of respect and empathy.”

Management at the setting is described as “committed and reflective” with evaluation systems in place “to identify areas where routines and practices can be improved to enhance outcomes for children.” Amongst these are mechanisms “to support children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, which include working in partnership with parents.”

After speaking to families, the Ofsted inspector states that “parents say their children enjoy attending the nursery and have seen their children make good progress in their learning.” She adds: “Parents value the feedback on their children’s development and appreciate the ideas staff provide to support learning at home.”

The commitment of Partou Dulwich Sports Ground team members to promoting children’s health is also highlighted in the report, including talking to children about “what foods are good for us, which helps children to learn about healthy lifestyles.”

And safeguarding arrangements at the setting are judged to be “effective” surrounded by a “positive culture” that “puts children’s interests first.”

Lisa McSweeney, Partou Dulwich Sports Ground Nursery Manager, said: “We are really pleased with the report which accurately reflects the commitment and dedication of my fantastic team.

“Each team member adopts a thoroughly professional approach to everything they do, with each child’s individuals needs taking priority at all times.”

Samantha Rhodes, Partou Managing Director, said: “Congratulations to Lisa and her team at Partou Dulwich Sports Ground.

“As its name suggests, the nursery is located in a very special place which they take full advantage of to maximise the children’s personal development.”