Sawtry Day Nursery   ‘Outstanding’ (Ofsted September 2007)

Sawtry Day Nursery has been awarded the rare accolade of ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted following its recent inspection. Sawtry Day Nursery is only the third nursery in Cambridgeshire to be judged as ‘Outstanding’. The Nursery opened in 1993 and currently has just over 50 children on roll, with an excellent team of 16 staff.

The report states that ‘The provision is outstanding.’ The inspector especially commented on the wonderful and extensive garden. The Inspector said of the pre-school nursery education being delivered, ‘The quality of teaching and learning is outstanding’. ‘Staff have an excellent knowledge of the Foundation Stage curriculum and of each child's individual stage of development.’ The Inspector noted that the children ‘squealed with delight’ at certain activities and that they are ‘wonderfully confident’.

‘Partnership with parents and carers is outstanding. Staff have excellent systems for communicating regularly with parents, so that children's care is consistent.’

The report also recognises the commitment of the whole staff team and states ‘Staff are enthusiastic and proactive in implementing changes to strengthen practice’ and in doing so aim ‘to provide a first class service that meets the needs of all the children.’ ‘Staff consistently praise and encourage children. They have high, realistic expectations of them all, resulting in behaviour which is exemplary.’ The inspector praised the excellent leadership and management stating that ‘Leadership and management are outstanding’.

Dawn Quince, Nursery Director said “We are deeply indebted to Sawtry Community College for their continued support in working as an effective partner. However, to achieve ‘Outstanding’ is a real testimony to the hard work, enthusiasm and dedication from our staff team. They demonstrate a deep commitment to provide quality childcare and effective learning, and this is clearly reflected in the Ofsted report”.

In conclusion, no recommendations for improvement at the nursery were made as the inspector judged the nursery to be already operating with exceptionally high standards. The full inspection report is available on the Ofsted website.