Parents praise staff and facilities at day care nursery in Sidmouth

CHILDREN at a Sidmouth nursery are “confident, happy and settle quickly”, according to its latest Ofsted report.

Sidmouth Day Care Nursery, which offers day-long care for 39 children aged from six months to school age, 51 weeks of the year, has gained a “good” grading from Ofsted inspector Heather Morgan.

Each key area - overall effectiveness of the early years provision, effectiveness of leadership and management, quality of provision and outcomes for children – gets the grading.

“The staff team work together well to provide good quality care and learning experiences for children,” says the inspector.

“Consequently, children are making good progress overall in their learning and development.”

While staff take children on afternoon walks, the inspector felt those attending for morning sessions missed out on outdoor trips and recommended staff find ways to give all children regular access to learning experiences outdoors and to the natural world.

Sandy Roberts, Early Years professional at the nursery, is pleased with the report and said of the lack of outdoor space: “The long term plan, looking to the future, if for a new building at the football club. We have submitted outline plans and if approved, will submit detailed ones.

“The town council supports us in having a nursery for the future of Sidmouth as a valuable service for the community.”

She said while most people realised they took young children, many, because of the nursery’s name, did not realise it catered for three and four year olds up to school age.

“We have 13 children leaving in the summer to start school in September. We have excellent links with the primary schools,” said Sandy.

Parents of children at the nursery in All Saints Road, were keen to express their support of its facilities.

Karissa Taylor of Byes Lane, first started her daughter Zanthe at the nursery when she was two-and-a-half because she wanted to return to work.

She sent her son to a different playschool and says she noticed the difference in their progress and confidence.

“Zanthe (four) starts school in September and being at the nursery has made a big difference. She is much more advanced and prepared for it.”

Emma Morley from Fleming Avenue, Sidford, added: “Sidmouth Daycare Nursery is like my child’s second home and he absolutely loves going to play with all his friends.”

She said her eldest son, Ethan, six, had also enjoyed being there. Both started at six months when Emma returned to work.

“I don’t feel as guilty leaving him, knowing that he is happy and settled in his home away from home.”