Dorchester nursery say they've 'met Ofsted requirements' following inadequate rating
Sunny Days has responded to the report by inspectors
Last updated 27th Jun 2023
A Dorchester nursery and play club, which saw its Ofsted rating drop from 'good' to 'inadequate' has been responding to the report.
Director of Sunny Days, Joy Scadden, says they're now met all the requirments and recommendations made by inspectors.
The report found the nursery off Middle Farm Way was 'short staffed', with the business now clarifying the context of the situation.
They've said they were using agency staff to fill the gaps:
“We were at the time short staffed in some job roles, and consequently for the first time in our history we had to rely upon agency staff. Short staff does not mean and did not mean we were placing children or staff at risk, and the ratios and regulations were always met.”
A new manager's been appointed at the Dorchester nursery, having previously been in charge of the Bridport branch.
Director Joy Scadden said:
“The Manager and her team quickly put a plan in place to respond to the actions raised from the inspection and Ofsted have seen a significant turnaround since then. We have also received support from the local authority.
“Since the publication of the report last week, we have been delighted to receive a great deal of support and lovely messages from the parents, the majority of whom were shocked by the outcome as it isn’t what they experience on a daily basis.
“The staff and the management team continue to work hard to make improvements and we look forward to a very positive outcome when Ofsted returns in a few months."
Parents have also responded to the Ofsted rating, saying they're 'absolutely livid' that Sunny Days received an inadequate rating.
She's said she's 'absolutely livid' at the rating from Ofsted, with other mums and dads calling the setting 'brilliant', with children 'happy, safe and well cared for'.
Sunny Days say families have been provided with an opportunity to discuss any concerns and have been reassured by the positive changes and plan in place.