Highwood Nursery at Brockenhurst College has been rated ‘Outstanding’ following a recent inspection by educational standards watchdog Ofsted.
Inspectors confirmed that the Nursery’s performance was ‘Outstanding’ in each of the four key areas under scrutiny.
These comprised: effectiveness of the leadership and management; quality of teaching, learning and assessment; personal development, behaviour and welfare; and outcomes for children.
In the report summary, Ofsted inspector Jacqueline Good wrote: ‘Staff know individual children exceptionally well and use information from observations and assessments to meticulously plan how best to support learning.’
She added: ‘Children develop excellent independence and practical life skills. They manage tasks and self-care skills extremely well for themselves in preparation for school.’
This was Highwood’s first Ofsted inspection since the Nursery moved to the College grounds last year into a new purpose built facility which was funded by Hampshire County Council.
Vicky Bidwell, who manages the Nursery which looks after 70 children aged three months to five years, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled at the outcome of the inspection.
“To be awarded ‘Outstanding’ in the first inspection at our new premises is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our remarkable team of childcare professionals.
“It’s wonderful to know that their commitment to making Highwood a caring, stimulating and friendly environment has been recognised and rewarded.”
Parent Alexa Phillips said: “The most wonderful thing about Highwood is that my little girl is truly happy there. You couldn’t ask for more.”
College Principal, Di Roberts CBE said: “This is a very well deserved accolade for our nursery and reflects the excellence of our truly outstanding nursery team and manager, Vicky Bidwell.”
