'We are incredibly proud' - Ofsted praises Wolverhampton nursery’s strong standards and nurturing environment

A nursery school is celebrating after being judged to be at Strong Standard in all areas by Ofsted.

Inspectors visited Bilston Nursery School and found that children experience a 'safe, warm and nurturing environment where they feel welcome from the moment they arrive'.

They 'behave well... developing friendships and positive relationships with both staff and each other'.

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Children 'enjoy their learning' as they explore the 'well designed... thoughtfully organised and accessible' indoor and outdoor environments, which allow children to investigate, play and learn with growing independence, inspectors said.

They also get to take part in ‘a wide range of exciting experiences, such as water play, outdoor role play and imaginative adventures', all of which help 'broaden their understanding of the world'.

The curriculum was described as 'ambitious, carefully designed and rooted in purposeful play, high quality interactions and rich experiences', with the outdoor curriculum described as a 'particular strength'.

Staff 'think deeply' about what children need to learn and how best to support their development, Ofsted said.

As a result, 'children thrive', making 'secure and sustained progress from their starting points' and developing confidence, independence and resilience which leaves them 'very well prepared' for reception and beyond.

Children with special educational needs or disabilities also achieve well because their needs are identified early and supported through tailored interventions from knowledgeable staff.

Adults know their children 'extremely well' and respond sensitively to their emotional, developmental and communication needs. This creates trusting relationships that support children to feel secure and ready to learn. Children enjoy coming to school, 'show pride in their achievements and enjoy sharing their learning with adults'.

Leaders are described as being 'passionate about providing the best possible experiences for children', placing a clear emphasis on welfare, inclusion and high quality early education. Governors 'understand the school's strengths and are committed to supporting its continued development'.

In their report published recently, inspectors judged the school to be at Strong Standard in all six inspection areas – achievement; attendance and behaviour; curriculum and teaching; inclusion; leadership and governance; and personal development and wellbeing. Safeguarding standards were also met.

Executive headteacher Emma Smith said: "We are incredibly proud that our Ofsted report reflects the dedication, warmth and high aspirations that make Bilston Nursery School such a special place for children and families.

“This is a true reflection of the hard work, dedication and passion of our whole school community.

“I am especially proud that inspectors highlighted the warmth of relationships across the school, our ambitious and carefully designed curriculum, and the inclusive practice that enables children who may face additional barriers to thrive.

“I want to thank our dedicated staff, governors, families and partner agencies, and feel privileged to lead such a special school and an amazing team who put children at the heart of everything they do.”

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Wolverhampton Council's cabinet member for children, young people and education, said: “It's a big achievement to be judged strong in all areas, and something of a rarity under the new framework, and I am delighted for everyone at Bilston Nursery School.

"This report highlights their dedication in creating a warm, inclusive environment where children feel safe, supported and ready to learn.

“It is especially encouraging to see the focus on high quality early education, outdoor learning and support for children with additional needs. The school should be very proud of the hugely positive start it is giving its young children.”