Leaping Toads Dagenham awarded 'Good' at recent Ofsted inspection

Following an Ofsted inspection at Leaping Toads Dagenham, we are delighted to announce that we have been given a 'GOOD' rating. The inspection covered all areas of our provision (Nursery and Activity Centre.)

We would like to say a massive well done to our team for nurturing, educating, and inspiring the children in their care.

The Ofsted inspectors were incredibly complimentary about staff and children:

“Children enjoy their time at the nursery. They arrive excitedly and leave their parents with ease. They are greeted by happy, nurturing staff. Children have established close bonds with their key person. They are eager to investigate the activities provided and quickly settle with their friends. Children receive good interactions from the staff, who know them well.”

“Children join in group activities excitedly, such as 'the attention bucket' game. They sing familiar songs and predict what may be in the bucket. Staff are skilful, capturing the children's imagination as they describe the objects inside.”

“Children's behaviour is good. They understand what is expected and they are kind to one another. Visual prompts, praise and gentle reminders are used to reinforce positive behaviour. The session runs smoothly and there is a calm atmosphere as children are busy, engrossed in their play.”

The Nursery team have a strong passion for childcare and Ofsted recognised that:

“A broad curriculum is planned that covers all areas of learning. Staff focus on children's individual interests and what they need to learn next when implementing activities.”

“There is a sharp focus on building a strong team. Morale is good and training is positively encouraged to support their own continuous development. New staff members speak positively about their induction and support.”

“The member of staff who coordinates the care for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities has a detailed knowledge of the very specific needs of each child. She works closely with their key person, parents and outside agencies to agree and constantly update individual care plans.”

“Good support is provided for children who speak English as an additional language. Strategies in place help children to communicate and make progress, such as the use of Makaton and visual prompts. Children benefit from bilingual staff who can communicate in a variety of languages with them. There is a strong emphasis to ensure children make good progress in both languages.”

“Children's welfare is of high priority and the overall team have secure knowledge of how to safeguard children, including the wider aspects of child protection. This also includes a secure knowledge of the nursery's whistle-blowing policy.”

We are delighted with this Ofsted report for Dagenham and are really pleased to see that Ofsted recognise the team’s hard work and dedication.

You can find the link to the full Ofsted report here: https://files.ofsted.gov.uk/v1/file/50193972. Our Ofsted Report is also available in Reception.