Lake House Day Nursery recognised for Strong Standard and Expected Standard outcomes under the new Ofsted framework

Lake House Day Nursery and Preschool in Westbury on Trym, Bristol, has achieved a Strong Standard in two areas and an Expected Standard in four areas following its latest Ofsted inspection, which took place on 18 November 2025 under the government’s new Ofsted framework.

Settings are evaluated across six core areas. These are Achievement, Inclusion, Behaviour Attitudes and Establishing Routines, Children’s Welfare and Well-being, Curriculum and Teaching, and Leadership and Governance. The inspection praised the nursery for its inclusive approach to learning, reflective leadership and the positive impact its curriculum has on children’s development and confidence.

The nursery provides high-quality education and care for children aged three months to five years. Its experienced and caring team support children to develop independence, curiosity and strong early communication skills within a welcoming and nurturing environment.

Strong Standard in Inclusion

Lake House Day Nursery and Preschool was awarded a Strong Standard in Inclusion. Inspectors recognised the highly effective systems in place to identify children’s needs and ensure that support is both timely and targeted. Staff work collaboratively to share information, put individual learning plans in place, and involve parents and external professionals where appropriate.

The report highlights that staff “make timely referrals to agencies and quickly incorporate the advice of specialist professionals into children’s individual programmes,” helping children, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, to make excellent progress from their starting points.

Strong Standard in Achievement

The nursery was also awarded a Strong Standard in Achievement. Children develop their communication and language skills very well through stories, songs and purposeful interactions with staff. Older children confidently use new vocabulary and mathematical ideas linked to shape, size and quantity, while babies benefit from rich sensory experiences that support their early physical development.

Outdoor learning also plays an important role in children’s experiences, helping them to build confidence, awareness of risk and an understanding of how to keep themselves safe. Inspectors concluded that “all children are prepared very well for their future learning.”

Expected Standard in Behaviour Attitudes and Establishing Routines

The inspection found that leaders and staff have high expectations for children’s behaviour and conduct. Children form warm attachments with their key person, understand daily routines and show kindness, cooperation and care for others.

Expected Standard in Children’s Welfare and Well-being

Children arrive confidently, are eager to see their friends and show that they feel safe and settled in the nursery environment. Staff support children to think about their emotions, develop independence and take part in regular outdoor play and physical activity.

Inspectors also recognised the strengthened key person approach which ensures continuity of support for children and contributes positively to their emotional well-being.

Expected Standard in Curriculum and Teaching

Leaders have developed an ambitious curriculum that focuses on what children need to learn while also reflecting their interests. Staff observe and assess children’s progress and use this knowledge to plan engaging activities and purposeful interactions that support next steps in learning.

Communication, language and early mathematics are embedded across play and daily routines, and staff work together to adapt activities so that children who need additional support can fully participate and access learning opportunities.

Expected Standard in Leadership and Governance

Leaders reflect on practice and plan improvements that enhance children’s learning experiences. Recent changes to the environment have supported accessibility and independence, and developments are carefully considered to ensure they have a positive impact.

Staff spoke positively about the emphasis placed on professional development and well-being, while parents valued the guidance and resources provided to support learning at home.

A message from Nursery Manager Leanne

“There have been many changes over the past two years, and without the Lake House team’s positivity and commitment, these achievements wouldn’t have been possible. I am incredibly proud of all we’ve accomplished together, which is reflected in our Ofsted report, with overwhelming support from our parents, Regional Manager and Early Years specialist. Building a cohesive team takes time, and guiding staff to make the right choices for children is a privilege. Without this dedicated team, the children wouldn’t receive the care, love, and passion for learning and development they deserve.”

This inspection outcome reflects the commitment, expertise and passion of the Lake House Day Nursery and Preschool team and their continued focus on inclusion, reflective practice and creating a nurturing environment where every child can thrive.

Want to read more?

You can find the full Ofsted report here.

What is Ofsted?

Ofsted stands for the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills. It is a UK government body responsible for inspecting and regulating educational institutions and childcare providers to ensure high standards of care and education for children.

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