TWO nurseries managed by Dorset Council were given glowing reports following recent Ofsted inspections.

Blandford Children’s Centre Nursery was given a good rating, and Shaftesbury Children’s Centre Nursery was rated as outstanding by Ofsted after their visits in June this year.

Ofsted gives schools an overall rating of either outstanding, good, requires improvement or inadequate.

In their report for Blandford, inspectors noted: "Children are familiar with the routines that staff have implemented, are self-assured and inquisitive and show respect to others and behave well. Children are encouraged to follow healthy lifestyles and enjoy spending time in the garden where they grow their own vegetables.

"The manager and staff provide a well-thought-out curriculum for all children. The curriculum is planned carefully and structured to build on what children need to learn next."

For Shaftesbury, the inspectors noted: "Each age group has its own outdoor area where the children, some of whom do not have gardens at home, relish having space to play freely and find out about nature.

"Children have excellent relationships with staff, which helps them to feel safe and secure at the nursery.

"There is an exceptionally strong focus on children's health and well-being, and staff well-being is high on the agenda. Staff know parents well and provide support for them as well as their children to ensure the best outcomes for the whole family."

Both nurseries remained open during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Cllr Andrew Parry, Portfolio Holder for Children, Education, Skills and Early Help said: “This is a fantastic achievement, and my thanks go to the teams who work hard to make sure children get the best start in life. I am proud of all the brilliant work they do for Dorset families and the inspectors’ feedback underlines the commitment made by all.”

Melissa Young, Childcare Manager, Blandford Children’s Centre Nursery, said: “I am extremely proud of our outstanding team, who are passionate in providing a stimulating and fun environment. We are dedicated to the care, learning and development of every child.

“The children have had an amazing year: coming in independently, learning new skills and becoming confident learners. Our July graduation saw 25 children off to school and we wish them well for the future. I am delighted with our Ofsted result and appreciate the support of our families.”

Ashli Knight, Acting Childcare Manager, Shaftesbury Children’s Centre Nursery, said: “We are thrilled with our latest Ofsted report and are really pleased the comments of the inspector recognise the hard work and progress we have made over the last few years.

“I would like to thank the children, parents and staff for their continued support and dedication to the nursery. We will continue to strive to maintain high standards and performance for all children. We are excited to continue welcoming children to the setting.”

Blandford Children’s Centre Nursery provides childcare for children from 2 months to 5 years. It is linked to Blandford Children’s Centre.

Shaftesbury Children’s Centre Nursery provides childcare for children from 3 months to 5 years. It is linked to Shaftesbury Children's Centre.

Ofsted is the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills. It inspects services providing education and skills for learners of all ages. It also inspects and regulates services that care for children and young people. It reports directly to Parliament, parents, carers and commissioners.