Baby & Toddler unit rated 'Outstanding' by Ofsted

We are delighted to finally share that The Cottage Day Nursery (55 Bedford Street, Derby) has been awarded an 'Outstanding' Ofsted rating! 

On Friday 5^th May, our Baby & Toddler unit (0-2’s) had a visit from His Majesty’s Inspector Mel Walker. 

Outstanding Childcare

We started by doing a ‘Learning Walk’ where the Management team had the opportunity to showcase our strengths, comment on reflective practice, demonstrate how we implement our carefully designed curriculum and how this benefits our littlest Cottage babies. 

The team remained extremely calm throughout the day and continued to do what they do, day in and day out. The inspector observed many areas of practice during the day, from lunchtimes to outdoors, nappy changes, messy play and much more. She also thoroughly questioned our staff and Management teams on aspects of safeguarding, safer sleep and curriculum intents, and Special Educational Needs provision.

Many of our wonderful parents were able to talk to the inspector on the day, and we thank you all so much for your lovely and supportive comments. 

Finally, it was time for feedback (amongst Coronation parties happening in every unit!). The inspector shared feedback with our management team, stating that our strengths lie within the passion that filters down from the highest level of Management all the way through to our Apprentices not least, she could clearly see the impact this had on the happy and confident babies in our care! 

What’s next?

This is the third time our Baby & Toddler unit has gained an Outstanding grade. We will be inspected again within the next six years, and we hope to deliver the same result from the same dedication and hard work that created this one! For now, we’re looking forward to taking our passionate and dedicated staff team out for a celebration to say well done and a huge thank you! 

Here’s a link to our report so you can read what the inspector had to say. https://files.ofsted.gov.uk/v1/file/50219716