By Emilia DeFreitas

KINDRED Harlow, located at the Harlow Leisurezone, received an Ofsted rating of ‘outstanding’ after their recent inspection that occurred on the 12th of April 2022. 

The inspector, Lynn Clements, didn’t have a bad word to say about the care given to children under 4 at Kindred Harlow and they described the nursery to be ‘stimulating’ and perfect at ‘utilising’ imagination of the young minds. 

The report praised the ‘inspiring leadership team’ and mentioned that due to many training events and research they successfully educate the children through learning and through play.

Eleven of the 15 staff are qualified in level 2 childcare or above and this level of skill is clearly recognised by the inspector as they mention about the staff understanding a young person’s body yet the staff also helped the children to understand their own bodies- a crucial part to one’s development. 

Independence of the children is explored by the staff from the beginning. Ofsted said that children learn responsibility very early on, for example, they have to learn manage their coats and personal hygiene (always with support from the high expectations of the staff). 

Children’s communication skills is an idea which Ofsted highlighted in their report and they acknowledged the staff ‘nurturing’ these skills. Especially due to the recent years taken by COVID,

Kindred Harlow understand the need to provide children with the support in this area that they wouldn’t be able to get from home. This is carried out through meaningful conversations everyday. 

Lastly, the safeguarding arrangements are deemed as ‘effective’. Designated staff are in charge of the safeguarding of the nursery to ensure all of the children are thoroughly monitored and that means any concerns will be investigated further if necessary.

After a fun filled day at the nursery; speaking to parents, staff and children and taking part and observing daily activities, Ofsted came to their conclusion and the nursery was regarded as being successful. 

All details of the report were taken from https://files.ofsted.gov.uk/v1/file/50184095