Mighty Oaks at Chapel Gate graded as Requires Improvement by Ofsted

A report into the Mighty Oaks Day Nursery and Pre School said: “For example, during a walk to the forest, staff did not ensure children were closely supervised when crossing a bridge over a stream.”

Inspectors visited the nursery, located at the Bournemouth Sports Club at Chapel Gate, on February 5. Their report has just been published.

They said: “Managers and staff do not make effective use of risk assessments to help them to ensure that children are as safe as possible when on outings.”

The report says procedures for monitoring children’s progress are not fully embedded and that some staff are not aware of what children need to learn next.

“Staff do not provide all parents with detailed information about children’s progress and what they need to learn next to involve them in supporting their children’s learning at home," it reads.

Strengths at the nursery are that children behave well and receive frequent praise which gives them confidence and pride in their achievements, according to the inspectors.

Managers and staff work together as a team and share a positive attitude to making improvement.

The Ofsted report went on: “Procedures for recruiting staff and checking and monitoring their suitability, are strong. This keeps children safe.”

Director Suzi Daver said she was disappointed with the Ofsted rating and said changes are being implemented with the help of a new manager.

Forest walks have been temporarily suspended until new risk assessments are implemented.

She said of the report: “Key findings in it were really positive and gave valued constructive reflection of the setting.

“We are very proud that it was clear to see that the children are happy, well behaved, and they have confidence from the praise our staff give to them.”

She said she hopes positive observations will be “well-established and embedded” when the nursery is inspected again.