Harpenden: Ofsted rates Batford Nursery School 'outstanding'

Published yesterday (Thursday, June 15) Ofsted's report for Batford Nursery School, on Holcroft Road, described the establishment as "a beacon for outstanding practice".

The report, which followed an inspection on April 19, also noted that "children have a maturity beyond their stage of development".

The establishment's staff were also praised, with the report stating: "Staff are experts at leading learning for children in this age group.

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"During child-initiated learning, interactions instigated by adults are highly effective.

"This means every opportunity is used to extend and embed the new knowledge that children learn.

"Staff use their secure knowledge of each child to adapt learning to their needs. This includes children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND)...

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"...Staff make purposeful and caring connections with parents.

"They ensure that parents receive clear communications about their children’s learning.

"Parents value this information, which helps them to build on their child’s learning at home."

Lastly, the report adds: "Parents describe the school as a ‘magical’ place for children to learn.

"This is reflected in the way children arrive at school happily and get immediately absorbed in their learning.

"Children have an exceptional start to their school life."

The result of the Ofsted inspection sees Batford maintain its 'outstanding' Ofsted rating for the fifth inspection running.

Sarah Hedges, the school's headteacher, said: "We are delighted to maintain an outstanding grading for the fifth time.

The children and teachers of Batford Nursery School celebrating five 'outstanding' Ofsted inspections. (Image: Batford Nursery School)

"This reflects the amazing dedication of the whole Batford team.

"Early Years is our passion and it’s fantastic that this has been recognised by Ofsted.

"I feel proud and privileged to be the Headteacher of this wonderful local community school."

Laura Williams, the school's chair of governors, added: "The governors are thrilled that Batford Nursery School has received such a glowing Ofsted report and would like to thank Sarah and the team for all their immense hard work, enthusiasm and passion that has gone into creating such a fabulous early years setting."