Ardwick Day Nursery in Manchester has been ordered to make drastic improvements after an Ofsted inspection uncovered a catalogue of failings.
Inspectors found that children at the Hyde Road nursery cried for 'prolonged periods of time' because they felt unsettled, and that toilets and nappy changing areas were unhygienic due to irregular cleaning. Teaching was described as 'poor', and the welfare of children with special educational needs (SEND) was not being met.
Failings detailed in report
"Children with SEND struggle to settle, regularly become frustrated and have not developed secure bonds with a trusted adult," the report said. "This significantly undermines their emotional wellbeing and prevents them from being ready to learn."
Frequent staffing changes meant children failed to form relationships with staff, while a poorly implemented curriculum meant they 'do not achieve well'. The report added: "Children do not develop the essential knowledge and skills that they need for their future success. They are not adequately prepared to move on to the next stage of learning, including moving on to school."
Impact on babies and positive findings
Babies' development was also 'compromised' because they were held for 'prolonged periods of time'. Staff were said to be 'preoccupied' with looking after babies while also doing admin, which "limits babies' learning and development".
However, inspectors found that the nursery met safeguarding standards, provided healthy meals, and had access to a 'well-equipped' outdoor area.
Action plan and next steps
The nursery received an 'urgent improvement' rating with an eight-point action plan. It will now face increased inspections and could be forced to close if it does not improve over the next two inspections.
Ardwick Day Nursery has been approached for comment.
