Praise for nursery after first inspection

AN inspector has praised the work of an Iron Acton day nursery to encourage the independence of its "happy and confident" children.

Little Ducklings, at One Pool Farm in Dyers Lane, had its first ever inspection from Ofsted in January, having registered with regulator Ofsted in 2021.

The regulator said the nursery, which caters for up to 52 children aged under four, was 'good' in all areas, including quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, and leadership and management.

Ofsted inspector Marie Swindells said children are eager to enter the nursery each day.

Her report, published in February, said: “They separate from their parents, and staff greet them warmly, which enables them to settle quickly. Older children follow routines independently and organise their belongings on arrival.

“Children are happy and confident. They spend a prolonged period in self-chosen activities, indoors and outdoors. Staff skilfully support them."

The inspector said children learn Makaton signing, which enhances their interactions with each other, with children confidently using signs for 'more', 'please' and 'thank you'.

Children are encouraged to develop a love of books and reading, and to explore mathematics through play.

The inspector said staff know the children well and are good role models for them.

Staff at Little Ducklings day nursery celebrate their 'good' rating from Ofsted

She said: "Staff talk to the children with respect and are attentive to their care needs.

"For example, staff ask if the children would like help getting their shoes on, or if they would like help cutting their snack, and then they wait for a response.

"This encourages the children's independence and supports their emotional wellbeing.”

However the report recommended that noise levels