Howard Street Nursery School rated 'Good' by Ofsted

Howard Street Nursery School in Rochdale has recently achieved a ‘Good’ rating following a two-day inspection by Ofsted.

The nursery, which provides term-time early years education to children aged two-four, was praised for an “ambitious curriculum that meets the needs of all children, including two-year-olds and children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).”

The children were praised for their achievements and “behave sensibly and respect other people” whilst being “kind, well-mannered and how to share resources.”

Inspectors noted that the children were “happy,” saying they “arrive full of smiles and confidently say goodbye to their parents and carers. They feel safe and trust the staff to care for them, including when they need comfort or reassurance.”

The report added: “Children gain a secure foundation in communication and language. For example, children, including two-year-olds, confidently take part in stories, singing and rhyme times with staff.

“Children develop a valuable knowledge of books, stories and language that they need for continuing their learning at primary school.”

Ofsted also recognised how hard the staff work to provide quality early years education and promote personal development. It highlighted how the children become “keen, confident learners” thanks to staff’s “gentle support and guidance.”

Further praise included that staff “know children very well and act quickly and effectively when they have any concerns. Leaders respond promptly to these concerns and engage well with external agencies to get timely support for children and their families.”

Staff are quick to “identify any potential barriers to learning, including SEND, that children may face” and “ensure that children who need extra help benefit from a wide range of support, including from professionals outside of the school. Leaders make certain that children with SEND are fully included in all opportunities for children at the school.”

The report also noted that safeguarding arrangements are “effective” and “everyone working at the school understands the important part that they play in keeping children safe.”

The only suggestion for improvement was that all staff should “make full use of opportunities to support and extend children’s learning through discussion.”

Prior to Covid, the nursery almost closed its doors due to the financial difficulties it faced.

The current executive headteacher, Sandra Hartley, decided to take on the challenging role so that the nursery could remain open and it was then that the federation between Greenbank Primary School and Howard Street Nursery was formed.

Mrs Hartley said: “I am delighted with the outcome of the most recent report and glad that Ofsted were able to view the impact we have on the children that attend.

“We are passionate about providing quality opportunities and experiences to ensure that children achieve well and learn valuable skills in preparation for them starting primary school.

“I am incredibly proud of the staff and their continuous hard work and dedication.”