‘Exceptional’ Wingate Nursery School makes Ofsted history

Wingate Nursery School has become the first nursery school in the country to be rated ‘exceptional’ by Ofsted across every area inspected under the watchdog’s new framework.

The inspection, which took place on June 9, saw the school described as a place where ambition for children is “without limit” and where youngsters are encouraged to “think big”.

The nursery also ensures children get a breadth of experiences, learning essential skills and foundational skills so they are “exceptionally well prepared” for the future. 

Children at Wingate Nursery School (Image: WINGATE NURSERY SCHOOL)

Headteacher Becky Wood said she was “incredibly proud” and “deeply moved”, saying: “It is an acknowledgement of the extraordinary work of our children, our families and our staff.”

Inspectors awarded the top grade, the highest of five possible ratings, in all six categories assessed: achievement; attendance and behaviour; curriculum and teaching; inclusion; leadership and governance; and personal development and wellbeing. 

Safeguarding standards were also confirmed as met.

The report derailed how leaders focus on forming “positive, supportive relationships” with the families and welcome them into the Wingate community. 

Children at Wingate Nursery School (Image: WINGATE NURSERY SCHOOL)

Inspectors noted how children make “exceptional progress” where the opportunities for investigation and learning are “endless”

The report describes how children thrive and have “consistently superb” behaviour, treating others and their environment with respect. 

The nursery’s three sites – the main building, an allotment, and a woodland cottage – give children a “breadth of experiences” rarely seen in early years settings.

Staff, who are “excellent” role models, are “highly skilled” in supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring “no ceiling” on what any child can achieve.

Children at Wingate Nursery School (Image: WINGATE NURSERY SCHOOL)

Leaders’ expertise is influencing practice within the nursery, locally and nationally.

Inspectors also recognised Wingate’s special relationship with the local community and its families with parents and carers describing it as a “special place in the community.”

Ms Wood said: “I am incredibly proud of this outcome, but more than anything, I feel deeply moved that the inspectors have recognised what we have always believed makes Wingate so special. 

“This is not simply an inspection outcome; it is an acknowledgement of the extraordinary work of our children, our families and our staff, and of the courage we have to do things differently. 

Children at Wingate Nursery School (Image: WINGATE NURSERY SCHOOL)

“This result belongs to every member of our Wingate family. I feel incredibly privileged to lead a school where creativity, curiosity, compassion and a respect for children and their childhood are at the heart of everything we do – every single day.”

Chair of Governors Barbara Beels OBE, known to Wingate as ‘Paddy’, added: “This recognition of Exceptional, at the highest possible level, expresses the passion, vision, love and dedication that has been at the heart of Wingate Nursery School for many years. 

“Under Becky’s inspirational leadership, the whole brilliant team remains true to the school’s values, working tirelessly to truly protect childhood. 

“Children are ensured uninterrupted time for play within an enabling environment that provokes and empowers them to take responsibility for their own learning, supported sensitively by dedicated educators. 

“We are so proud that these unique values and the joyful success they bring to the children, families and the whole community have been acknowledged nationally.’