Isle of Wight nursery improves from ‘Inadequate’ to ‘Good’ Ofsted

Gatten and Lake Childcare, based at Shanklin’s Gatten and Lake Primary, received a significant upgrade from its rating in February, moving from 'Inadequate' to 'Good' following an inspection on June 18.

The report praised the overall effectiveness of the setting, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership.

With 44 children on roll, the early years setting was commended for providing a ‘warm, welcoming, and safe environment’.

Gatten and Lake Childcare, based at Gatten and Lake Primary School (Image: IWCP)

Staff were noted as supportive of younger and less confident children, helping them settle into the nursery environment.

The children are described as forming ‘close relationships with staff and peers’, enjoying group activities, and demonstrating kindness and consideration.

An example highlighted in the report was older children patiently waiting for younger ones to select bricks during a tower-building activity.

• You can read Gatten and Lake Childcare's full Ofsted report HERE.

Inspectors said that staff at Gatten and Lake Childcare ‘skilfully incorporate mathematical language into play’ and offer a varied curriculum that sparks children's curiosity.

Managers and staff have ‘worked hard to successfully address weaknesses from the last inspection’, the report says.

Staff feel ‘valued and supported’ and benefit from regular supervision to support them in their roles.  

Inspectors said they use ‘observations and assessments’ to plan ‘exciting and interesting learning opportunities’.

Despite the positive feedback, the report noted that there is still room for improvement.

The report suggested that staff ‘do not challenge older and the most-able children’s learning’ to build on what they already know and can do.

Parents have expressed positive views about the nursery, appreciating the staff's efforts to get to know each child and their family.

The report also said parents value the regular communication about their ‘children's daily experiences and achievements’, along with the guidance offered by the staff.

The County Press previously reported on Gatten and Lake Childcare's Inadequate inspection in February.

Janette Nye and Tracy Butcher, who run the nursery, said last week: “On Tuesday, June 18, we had our re-visit from Ofsted and are pleased to say we have been re-graded as GOOD!

“We wanted to thank all the parents for their continued support and kind comments. 

"This was a team effort, and we thank our dedicated and hard-working staff.”