Walton-on-Thames Nursery Achieves 'Good' Rating from Ofsted

16 April 2024

We're thrilled to announce that our Walton-on-Thames nursery has received a GOOD rating from Ofsted in our recent inspection conducted in March, accompanied by some outstanding feedback on curriculum, behaviour, and safeguarding. 

A group of children and adults are sitting on the grass holding signs.

The report describes how the children enjoyed their time at the nursery and benefited from the range of learning opportunities the staff provided for them.

 

Staff were praised for their attentiveness and extensive knowledge of child development. Their dedication ensures that babies receive the highest quality care and attention tailored to their needs. This nurturing environment provides babies with the emotional support they require, fostering a sense of security and contributing to the establishment of positive relationships.

 

Behaviour at the nursery was praised and it noted that throughout the nursery, ‘staff establish clear expectations for children's behaviour’.

 

The report underscores another significant aspect: the staff's commitment to equipping children with essential skills for school readiness. This includes fostering independence by teaching them to accomplish tasks autonomously. For instance, during mealtimes, children are encouraged to serve their meals and pour their drinks. Staff gently guide them in passing bowls and jugs to their peers, fostering independence in managing daily routines.


Jeni Goss, Head of Early Years at Toad Hall Nursery Group, commented “The team is so proud to receive such fantastic feedback, this is a testament to how hard they have worked over the last year. The report reflects not only the improvements they have made but also their passion and dedication to providing their children with the very best start in their learning journey. My highlights were seeing the team shine on the day itself and the praise the new curriculum received from the inspector, who could see it in action, pointing out the particular strength the staff have for thinking of ways to build on activities and promoting new language whilst also commenting on their warm interactions and the way they engage children. I am also thrilled that the inspector commented that there is an open and positive culture around safeguarding that puts children's interests first, I couldn’t agree more. Ensuring the wellbeing and safety of all our children remains our utmost priority at Toad Hall Nursery Group.”


The full Ofsted report is available to read here.


To find out more about our Walton-on-Thames nursery and book a tour, please get in touch with Ashlea our Nursery Manager on 01932 252 858 or email felcottroad@toadhall-nursery.co.uk.

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We’re proud to share that Toad Hall Nursery Group has been recognised as Runner-Up in the Best SEN Support category and named a finalist for Childcare Provider of the Year at the 2025 Childcare Services Awards! This national recognition is a proud moment for our team and reflects our ongoing dedication to inclusive practice and supporting children with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Each of our nurseries has a dedicated SENDCo who works closely with children, parents, and staff to ensure the best possible outcomes. Our dedicated SEN team provides guidance on referrals, accessing support, funding, and sharing key information to help families navigate their child's developmental journey. We believe in personalised learning to cater to each child's unique needs. Here are some of the things we have in place to make that happen. Makaton is integrated into daily routines, songs, and storytelling to create a more accessible learning environment. Visual aids are used throughout the nurseries to support children with hearing difficulties. We incorporate schemas into play to encourage child-led learning experiences, such as enclosed spaces, spinning objects, and movement-based activities. Activities are adapted to individual needs, including smaller group sessions, quiet spaces, and sensory-friendly materials. “We are honoured to have been recognised in these prestigious awards. This achievement is a testament to the unwavering commitment and expertise of our team in supporting children with additional needs. At Toad Hall, inclusion is not just a principle, it’s a core part of our ethos. We proudly provide a nurturing environment where every child is valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential - all while making magical memories along the way.” Katrina Otomoso, Head of Operations Our dedication to inclusive, high-quality early years education has never been stronger. Thank you to our incredible staff, supportive families, and wider community for helping us achieve this proud moment.
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