The pre-school where kids ‘giggle in delight’ and ‘learn skills for the future’

A nursery in Oldham has been praised as a ‘warm, welcoming and nurturing learning environment’ by Ofsted inspectors.

Sunny Smiles Day Nursery in Hollinwood received a ‘good’ rating in all categories from the education watchdog. 

The nursery on Hawthorn Road provides full day care for 73 kids from age three months to four years. In its first inspection since reopening under new management earlier this year, inspector Chris Scully praised the ‘inclusive environment’ and ‘exciting range of activities’ at the site.

In his report, published August 30, Scully wrote: “Staff plan an exciting range of activities that spark children’s interests.Children giggle in delight as they pour and fill different-sized teapots in the water play.” 

The nursery’s youngest charges are also well cared for according to the inspector, with ‘babies receiving the comfort they need’ and ‘settling quickly’.  

He noted that the tots generally had strong bonds with staff. Taught about hygiene and using sun protection when playing outdoors, kids were encouraged to be independent, Scully said. 

“Children learn to see to their own toileting needs and to put on their coats and shoes,” the inspector wrote. “They capably serve themselves at mealtimes and pour their own drinks. Consequently, children develop many of the skills needed for future learning and school.”

And staff helped youngsters develop ‘positive attitudes towards mathematics’ by introducing numbers and and counting through song. 

The nursery was commended for its support of kids with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), making ‘swift referrals’ to other services when needed. 

Staff also celebrate diversity, according to Scully. He wrote: “Each child’s uniqueness is acknowledged and celebrated. Children learn about special events, such as Eid, to help them understand that people have different beliefs.” 

The preschool’s leadership, part of Zahra Day Nursery Ltd who own another pre-school in Bolton, has ‘a commitment to the ongoing success of the nursery’, according to Ofsted. Their Bolton branch also received a ‘good’ rating in December last year. 

But the watchdog did suggest some areas of improvement. It found that the organisation of group games were ‘not as effective’ with some kids left uninterested. 

Scully also suggested the nursery could have more ambition for implementing the curriculum, especially during holiday periods.