A NURSERY where staff say they are “empowered” to make it the best it can be has been praised in an Ofsted report.

Welcome Nurseries in Colchester has been rated good by the education watchdog after undergoing an inspection.

Management and staff at the day care in William Harris Way were praised by the inspector who they say effectively support and form close relationships with the children there.

The reports adds children part from their parents and carers with ease, quickly settle and become actively engaged in their chosen play.

The inspector complimented the children on their behaviour and said they are keen and active learners who understand the nursery routines.

During the Covid lockdowns, managers and staff kept in regular contact with families who could not attend, the inspector learned.

Children’s needs were also reassessed when they returned to identify any areas which needed specific focus.

Parents spoke highly of the nursery to Ofsted, saying their children really enjoy attending.

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Staff provide parents with a thorough handover at the end of each day and share information about how their child has been and what they have been doing.

The report also said children with special educational needs and disabilities are effectively supported.

Parents and carers of children with SEND also told the inspector they feel very well supported and the nursery manager helps them to seek additional funding from other agencies.

The report says there is a strong and secure management structure in place with a senior management team which supports the manager and staff well.

Managers said they are “empowered” by the team to make their nursery the best it can be.

However, it was noted while the quality of teaching is generally good, Ofsted says it is not yet consistently high.

The education watchdog says the nursery needs to develop further opportunities for staff to raise their professional development and enhance the range of experiences which help children to gain a better understanding of the wider community.

The manager said they’re hoping to reintroduce outings in the area now Covid restrictions have been lifted.