Following an Ofsted reinspection on 9 January, YMCA Romford Pre-school on Rush Green Road was rated ‘good’ in all four categories – quality of education; behaviour and attitudes; personal development; and leadership and management.
This takes the pre-school back to where it was before a controversial report was received following an inspection in July 2023, where the setting was deemed ‘inadequate.’ This judgement decision was contested by YMCA Thames Gateway Group, and whilst some aspects of the complaint were acknowledged and the draft report amended, the judgement was upheld.
In the latest report, the education regulator stated that the children were benefiting from an ambitious and well-delivered curriculum which supported all areas of learning effectively.
Whilst the previous report found that staff were not setting clear expectations for children’s behaviour, or providing them with strategies for managing their behaviour for themselves, the latest report says that staff set clear expectations for children’s behaviour which are consistently shared with children. The children demonstrated that they understood these expectations and were kind, well behaved and polite to others.
The pre-school was further praised for developing their knowledge of how to identify and manage potential risks within the pre-school premises and ensuring that any safety concerns raised by staff are responded to swiftly to provide a safe and secure environment for children.
Director of Communities for YMCA Thames Gateway Group, Samantha Latouche, said:
“We’re delighted to have our “good” judgement reinstated.
“We were incredibly disappointed – and surprised – to have been judged to be inadequate last summer. Our staff are incredibly hard-working, competent and passionate, and I am proud of the resilience they have shown during the past six months.
“To have your ability questioned is hugely demoralising, especially when you know you’re providing a safe and educational environment, and we have been so grateful for the support shown by our existing families and the local authorities.”
This reinspection outcome also means that funded places for children are once again available. If you would like to find out more, please visit https://ymcatg.org/nurseries-and-pre-schools/
If you’re interested in a career in childcare, please check out our departmental vacancies at https://ymcatg.org/get-involved/work-for-us/