A NURSERY has been branded inadequate by education watchdog Ofsted in its first inspection.

Sherwood Green Nursery, based at Sherwood Place, Undercliffe, has been criticised in a damning report. A number of concerns were raised about the nursery in a report issued following the inspection.

It says: “Safeguarding is not effective. The provider has not obtained enhanced criminal record checks to verify the suitability of all staff and trainees who care for children.

“In addition, she does not accurately record details about those staff who have undergone Disclosure and Barring checks.”

The report also highlights that, on occasions, trainees whose “suitability has not been assured” are left alone caring for babies and young children.

However, the report points out that a new “motivated, highly qualified and experienced” manager has been appointed, who has started to review the nursery and identify areas where improvement can be made.

It adds: “Weaknesses in leadership and management mean that children’s safety is compromised.

“There has been a number of staffing changes and new key persons do not yet know children well enough to meet their individual needs fully. Children’s emotional security is not consistently supported effectively.”

The report also says that staff do not have the “highest expectations” of what all children can achieve, adding that assessments are not precise enough to help staff consistently plan activities that meet children’s individual learning needs.

It says that children do not make good enough progress.

Despite the inadequate rating, the report highlighted positive partnerships with parents as a strength for the nursery.

“Parents feel that their children enjoy attending nursery and describe staff as friendly,” the report says.

“Staff speak with parents each day. They share information about their children’s day and the activities they have taken part in.

“Staff provide a well-resourced and well-organised environment.”

Emilia Olkowska, director of Sherwood Green Nursery, said the report was a"disappointment" to everyone, but claimed that Ofsted had carried out its inspection prematurely.

She said the nursery, which opened its doors less than one year ago, is "dedicated to working really hard" to provide the "highest standards" of childcare.

"We were treated unfairly and not given the opportunity and time to be fully prepared for our first Ofsted inspection," she said.

"We have already remedied everything Ofsted addressed to us."

Addressing concerns in the report regarding suitability of staff, she said all staff are "highly qualified and suitable to work with children". She added that DBS checks are carried out as part of the "safe recruitment procedure".

"We are confident and hoping to have our next inspection very soon with a better result," she said.