A Bexley preschool with “inspirational” staff where children feel “safe and happy” has received a glowing report from Ofsted.

Enchanted Wood Preschool was rated as outstanding following its last inspection on February 21, 2024.

The report was then published on March 26, 2024.

Inspectors found that an “expansive” range of activities for pupils are planned and that an outdoor environment that “considers the needs of every child” is created.

Children showed Ofsted that they “display high levels of happiness” as they do physical tasks such as climbing, swinging and exploring.

Ofsted reported that children at this preschool enjoy challenging themselves and that they “persevere at the highest levels.”

Children with special educations needs and/or disabilities are found to be well supported by staff in an “inspirational” way.

Inspectors found that all staff know exactly what each child needs “to succeed in a safe environment”.

It is reported that children “thrive” and staff work “seamlessly”.

Ofsted found that staff “foster strong attachments” with children at the nursery which leads to children behaving “exceptionally well” and developing their independence.

Managers are reported to lead the preschool with “a clear and ambitious vision” to give children the foundation to be “successfully and highly motivated”.

Gaps in children’s learning are quickly identified, inspectors said, and staff attend training to support children and take advice from external professionals.

Inspectors said that children with SEND are “extremely well supported”.

Ofsted found that children are “exceptionally well cared for” and they feel “safe and happy”.

Abie Sanford, the owner of Enchanted Wood Preschool, is “thrilled” with the outcome of the inspection.

She said: “We have a strong vision about what experiences we want to give children at Enchanted Wood, and a lot of work goes on behind the scenes to ensure the preschool grows year on year, building these experiences for every child attending.

“This ensures we offer the highest level of education and care across our seven preschools, five of which hold ‘Outstanding’ grades. 

“Our VCD, Crayford site is led by Claire Wheeler who manages a fabulous team of twelve staff, who work tirelessly to deliver this vision on a daily basis, ensuring every child feels safe, is loved, and achieves their very best.

“The recent addition of our new baby room, taking children from 12 months, has really helped us set the foundations for learning, ensuring new children feel safe and cared for from day one. 

“The toddler room and preschool rooms really keep the magic of learning alight and allow each child to develop independence and individual personalities to grow.”

She added: “We continue to grow as an outstanding provider in Bexley, building staff understanding of child development to enable us to offer the highest levels of teaching; working alongside specialist professionals to develop our support for those with additional needs; and expand our enrichment programme with early years partners to give children new experiences, raising life chances and successes for every child.”