Peterborough pre-school where ‘children receive warm and responsive care’ receives Outstanding Ofsted report

A Peterborough pre-school has received a glowing Ofsted report in their first inspection since 2017 – after inspectors rated it as Outstanding in all areas.

Stars Pre-School Parnwell retained its Outstanding status – the highest accolade awarded to schools by the education watchdog – for the quality of education it delivers, the behaviour and attitudes and personal development of the children, and leadership and management of its staff.

Lisa Barry, Stars Pre-School Parnwell manager, said: “I am truly delighted with this achievement. Not only is it a team effort from my wonderful team we call a family, but we are part of a wider family that is Stars Day Nurseries.

"The support over the years has been unmeasurable. We couldn’t have done this without the wonderful community we work in, the families and, of course, the children.

"We all share the same passion and vision, and that is to make a difference to the life of a child. We have fulfilled this and will continue this for years to come.”

The pre-school, which is based at Parnwell Community Centre, Saltersgate, employs eight childcare staff and teaches 37 children aged between two and four years old.

Staff got a special nod not only for their work at the pre-school but for their outreach work.

Inspector Tracy Joyce was particularly impressed with the trusting relationships they have forged within the community.

She made mention that the staff impressively reach out to make sure families and children receive the support they need, such as food parcels and presents for Eid or Christmas.

The report, which was published on January 9 this year, said the pre-school helps children to make “rapid progress in their development” to “ensure they are ready for their next stage in learning”.

This is achieved through a “bespoke curriculum”, which keeps children “thoroughly engaged” by providing a “wide range of well-planned learning opportunities”.

The report praises members of staff at the pre-school, who “respectfully communicate and listen to children, engaging with them enthusiastically to make learning and play fun”.

Children play with play dough, create aliens, explore sensory materials and are challenged outside to develop their physical skills.

Healthy eating is also on the menu not only on school grounds but staff work with parents to make sure pupils are provided with a wide range of healthy food and drink, both within the setting and at home.

Children also know how to brush their teeth and keep safe when in the car.

It’s also said “children receive warm and responsive care from staff”, who “encourage children to talk and share together, inviting each other into their play”.

Staff are “highly effective” at supporting children's communication and language, and have a “deep understanding” about what they want children to learn and how to teach it by providing “interesting learning experiences”.

The report details how children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are also “extremely well supported” in an environment with effective safeguarding.

Stars Pre-School Parnwell is part of the Stars Day Nurseries group, who run 15 nurseries and pre-schools in Peterborough and Lincolnshire.

Owner and CEO, Mohammed Younis, said: ‘’This is a fantastic achievement by Lisa and her team. I am so proud of everyone.

"This was our group’s third Ofsted Outstanding inspection for 2022 and I am incredibly happy for the fabulous team at Parnwell, whose hard work, commitment and excellence has been recognised by Ofsted.

"I cannot thank everyone enough for their commitment to the pre-school and ensuring every child is provided with wonderful care in a nurturing learning environment so that our children have the best start in life.’’