STAFF and children at a pre-school and nursery in Rubery are celebrating after being rated as outstanding by Ofsted.

Jellybabies Pre-School & Nursery, based in Longbridge Methodist Church, was given the highest rating by a government inspector for the effectiveness of the leadership and management of the early years provision, how well the early years provision meets the needs of the range of children who attend and the contribution of the early years provision to the well-being of children.

Jacqueline Walker, Jellybabies Nursery & Pre-School manager, said: “Our aim has always been to offer the best care and education for pre-school children and we are delighted that this has been recognised by Ofsted. This is due to the dedication and commitment of all staff. We are absolutely delighted all the hard work has paid off.”

Officer Patricia Dawes visited the school on Wednesday, September 18.

During the assessment she observed staff and children engaging in a range of indoor and outdoor learning activities, play and daily care routines.

She conducted joined observation with the deputy manager, held a meeting with the manager and spoke to staff and children throughout the inspection when appropriate.

The views of parents and carers were taken into account and the inspector gave feedback to the management team.

The suitability of staff’s qualifications and range of policy and procedures were viewed along with the children’s assessment records and planning documents.

The report said: “Children’s behaviour is exemplary as a result of a highly effective behaviour management strategies staff use to help and support children to manage their own behaviour.
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“Staff swiftly identify children’s starting points and plan challenging and exciting experiences across the seven areas of learning. As a result, children make outstanding progress in their learning and development.

“Staff comprehensively identify and successful minimise potential risks. Their expert knowledge of the signs of abuse and awareness of their responsibilities to protect children ensure children are fully safeguarded.

“The partnerships with parents are highly effective. Staff ensure parents are continually actively involve their children’s learning and development. Excellent partnerships with other professionals ensure that children’s individual needs are recognised and given the utmost priority.

“The excellent leadership setting mean all staff have excellent opportunities to further their professional development and all children receive high quality learning experiences. Sharply-focused self-evaluation includes the views of all staff, parents and children, which means area for improvement are identified and acted on.”

Officer Patricia Dawes said that the pre-school and nursery could improve by enhancing its ‘excellent’ outdoor learning environment to maximise children’s opportunities to investigate the natural world.