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Under-fives nursery in Dudley where staff are 'dedicated and passionate' handed fourth consecutive outstanding Ofsted rating

An under-fives nursery in Dudley has received it's fourth consecutive 'Outstanding' rating in the latest Ofsted report.

By Dan Stacey
Published

Fairhaven Nursery in Wordsley received the good news after their most recent inspection, which took place on July 9, 2025.

Inspectors found that 'children flourish' at the centre in Dudley, saying: "The dedicated team members are passionate about building strong relationships with children and their families."

Fairhaven Under Fives Centre, Wordsley, are delighted to have been given an Outstanding rating. At the front L-R: Manager: Dawn Carter, Asst Manager: Gemma Lewis, back are Early Years Practitioners: Rachel Baker, Karen Sheldon, Tamara Sims and Chloe Titley.
Fairhaven Under Fives Centre, Wordsley, are delighted to have been given an Outstanding rating

The report continued: "Children are immersed in an abundance of inspiring learning opportunities, and they delight in exploring and investigating.

"Leaders and managers have created a meticulously planned curriculum that is thoughtfully designed and expertly sequenced. The dedicated team offers children opportunities to practise and perfect their skills through stimulating experiences."

Nursery manager Dawn Carter said: "We've had four consecutive Outstanding results, and it's been six years since the previous inspection.

"It was a really good, rewarding recognition. The team of staff work really hard which I'm really grateful for.

"The day went very smoothly. We all did what we do every single day anyway, and we're really proud of the achievement.

At the front L-R: Manager: Dawn Carter, Asst Manager: Gemma Lewis, back are Early Years Practitioners: Rachel Baker, Karen Sheldon, Tamara Sims and Chloe Titley.
At the front L-R: Manager: Dawn Carter, Asst Manager: Gemma Lewis, back are Early Years Practitioners: Rachel Baker, Karen Sheldon, Tamara Sims and Chloe Titley

"We have around 20 children per session, sometimes a little less, but it's a nice, small group of children aged between two and four years old.

"We spend a lot of time working towards preparing them for their transition into primary school, but we also care for the younger ones as well and adapt to their needs."

Fairhaven Nursery is on the site of Fairhaven Primary School on Barnett Lane, Wordsley, which provides a clear pathway for children from the ages of 3 through to 11.

"It's lovely to see them go through the school and be able to keep in touch with them," Mrs Carter said. "Often their siblings come through as well, so it's a continuous community feel.

"The way our staff team work together, as well as their knowledge and professionalism, are definitely the reason [for the Outstanding mark]."