Raised in Bristol goes from ‘needs work’ to thriving outdoor-led setting.Raised in Bristol goes from ‘needs work’ to thriving outdoor-led setting.
A ‘warm and nurturing’ nursery has been rated Good in all areas by Ofsted, following a recent inspection that praised the nursery’s transformation since its last visit.
Raised in Bristol at Felix Road Adventure Playground in Easton was registered in 2020, is part of a social enterprise and caters to 96 children aged from nine months to four years. It operates full-time, Monday to Friday, from 8am to 6pm all year round, excluding bank holidays and Christmas week.
In its latest report, Ofsted commended the nursery’s leadership, staff development, and the high quality of education now on offer. “The provider has worked hard to address actions raised at the previous inspection,” the report stated.
“Leaders have increased professional development opportunities for staff and reviewed staff deployment arrangements… This has resulted in staff supporting children’s learning through good-quality interactions that also enhance children’s communication and language skills”.
The nursery had previously been rated as Requires Improvement , but inspectors found that significant steps had been taken to raise standards.
“Leaders and staff have designed a curriculum that is challenging, reflective of the needs of the children that attend and based on how young children learn best,” the report continued.
Staff were praised for creating a welcoming and engaging environment.
“Children and their families receive a warm welcome as they arrive at nursery. Children play together well and make friends easily. Staff regularly praise children’s achievements. They treat children with kindness and respond quickly to provide comfort, when needed”.
One particular highlight was the emphasis on outdoor play and nature-based learning. “Children make choices as to where they play and move freely between indoors and outdoors. Staff are keen for children to explore nature and develop their physical skills outdoors. Children listen to birds and observe their nests… and learn about what insects are living in the insect hotel”.
Nursery manager Lisa Hathway said the team were thrilled with the result. “We are thrilled with this recognition from Ofsted as we’ve been dedicated to creating a warm and nurturing nursery,” she said. “The team have worked hard to embed a curriculum that challenges children’s learning and developing skills for their future. The report reflects our commitment to high-quality early years education”.
The nursery’s staff team consists of 20 individuals, including three with qualified teacher status and others with a mix of level 2, 3, and 5 early years qualifications.
Children benefit from a mix of child-led and adult-initiated activities. Inspectors noted how staff “are skilled at following children’s lead. They use opportunities as they arise in children’s play to build on what children already know and can do and to extend their learning further. For example, pre-school children show an interest in shiny number objects and staff build on this by teaching them number recognition”.
Inspectors also observed the nursery’s commitment to communication and language development, especially for younger children. “Children are keen to participate in the specifically planned sessions that enhance their communication skills. For example, babies thoroughly enjoy ‘bucket time’ sessions. They bounce, clap and smile in excitement throughout”.
Parents were also found to be positive about the nursery’s work. “Partnerships with parents are good,” the report noted. “Parents are complimentary about the care and education their children receive and feel well informed about their child’s development and time at nursery”.
However, the report did point out areas for further improvement. Inspectors suggested that the nursery “offer more support to parents about ways in which they can extend their children’s learning at home” and “support staff to consistently help children to understand and manage their emotions”.
Nevertheless, the overall verdict was a strong endorsement of the nursery’s progress, with Good grades awarded across all categories: quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.
Raised in Bristol said it looks forward to building on the success of the latest inspection and “continuing to provide the very best care and education to children in the local community”.
For more information about the nursery or to enquire about places, parents are encouraged to contact communications@raisedin.org.uk or visit raisedin.org.uk.