Cornwall forest school Naturally Learning Blackwater Ofsted

The early years setting, located in the village of Blackwater in Truro, received this accolade following an inspection on July 29.

Offering a nurturing environment for children aged 0 to 8, the facility caters to 150 pupils, providing places for up to 65 children at a time.

Inspectors found that children are respectfully guided by highly skilled staff in a rich learning environment.

They noted that the children are curious, engaged, and keen to learn, aided by a highly-effective curriculum that allows children of all ages and backgrounds to make exceptional progress in their development.

Managers and staff have created an atmosphere that promotes meaningful learning opportunities, social and creative development, and math skills.

(Image: Naturally Learning)

Preschool children were seen exploring weather patterns, engaging in art projects, and using sundials for time calculation.

The inspectors commented on the incredible support for children's language and communication skills: "Inspectors found that staff hold meaningful interactions with babies and give them plenty of time to think and respond."

Naturally Learning Blackwater places heavy emphasis on children's personal and emotional development.

The nursery was noted as being calm and relaxed.

Younger children find delight in the gentle guitar music played by staff.

Leadership at the nursery was commended for being inspirational and exceptionally knowledgeable about early childhood education and effective teaching.

The team takes staff on a training week annually, visiting nurseries in Copenhagen to extend their knowledge further.

Inspectors also found the staff well-being is extremely important to leaders.

This emphasis on staff welfare, along with excellent working conditions and team-building days, has resulted in exemplary staff retention contributing significantly to children's relationships and learning journeys.

The Ofsted report also highlighted the nursery's clear focus on sustainability and environmental care.

(Image: Google Street View) Small groups are taken to visit the nursery's forest school each day, allowing children to explore and appreciate the natural world whilst developing confidence and self-esteem.

The report concluded by affirming "the arrangements for safeguarding are effective", thereby emphasising Naturally Learning Blackwater's commitment to prioritising children's interests.

This outstanding rating underscores the nursery's dedication to providing high-quality, holistic education for its students.

For more information about Naturally Learning Blackwater, visit its official website: www.naturallylearning.co.uk/blackwater-1

To read the Truro nursery's full Ofsted report, visit files.ofsted.gov.uk/v1/file/50255770