‘This report really captures what we’re all about,’ a delighted manager said
Avon Valley Nursery & Pre-School(Image: Press for Attention)
A new nursery in Keynsham has received a glowing first Ofsted report after an inspection in January.
Avon Valley Nursery & Pre-School, based out of Avon Valley Adventure Park, was found to be operating above expected standards across key areas including achievement, children’s wellbeing, curriculum, inclusion and leadership. The nursery found to be performing to the expected standard in terms of children’s behaviour, and was also declared to be meeting safeguarding standards.
Clair Fusco, area manager for the nursery, said she was delighted with the outcome of the inspection:
“This report really captures what we’re all about,” she said.
“It reflects the hard work of our team and the care we give every child, from babies through to preschool. We’re especially proud that it highlights the positive culture within the nursery, for both children and staff, and the high expectations we set from the very start.”
The nursery, which opened in 2023, has 85 places for children aged between 0 and 4.
Students such as Coby take advantage of ‘nature-based learning'(Image: Press for Attention)
It is part of the Attraction Nurseries group led by Gary and Alison Dennis, in partnership with Douglas and Hannah Douglas of Avon Valley Adventure Park. The setting operates from a purpose-built facility with access to 90 acres of outdoor space, including woodland and farm environments that form part of children’s everyday learning experiences.
The nursery takes advantage of its location with an emphasis on outdoor and nature-based learning; for example, forest school sessions form a regular part of children’s development. Ofsted’s report highlighted the impact of this on pupils’ development, noting how children learn practical skills such as fire safety during forest school sessions.
Alison Dennis, Director of Attraction Nurseries, said: “We’re incredibly proud of this result. Achieving a ‘Strong’ standard in five out of six areas reflects the dedication and commitment of the whole team.
“What stands out most is the recognition of the inclusive approach within the setting and the support we provide for every child to thrive. That’s something that sits at the heart of everything we do.”
The nursery was inspected using Ofsted’s new framework, introduced at the start of the year. Under the new inspection guidelines, the regulator examines a number of key areas rather than coming up with a single grade for an education setting’s effectiveness.