Ofsted has forced the closure of a Chippenham nursery over child safety fears.
Following a visit to New Road Nursery earlier this week, inspectors suspended the setting’s registration over serious concerns about the risk of harm to children.
Ofsted used legal powers, under the Children Act 1989, to close the establishment for six weeks after an inspection revealed things that may threaten the safety of youngsters at the provision.
“We suspend registration if we reasonably believe that the continued provision of care by the registered person may expose a child to a risk of harm”, an Ofsted spokesperson said.
They continued: “We suspend a childcare provider’s registration where the ‘harm test’ is met and we believe children’s safety and well-being is at risk.
“It is important to note that, when we suspend a childcare provider, it does not always mean that the provider has done something wrong.
“We are clear that suspending a registration is an interim measure to safeguard children. It does not involve finding out facts or suggesting any fault.”
Ofsted said that the decision to suspend a provider’s registration is not taken lightly, and inspectors will use these powers “proportionally” and “with great care”.
Suspension gives the authorities time to investigate concerns, and enables the nursery to correct any issues before it can reopen.
Typically, suspensions last up to six weeks but can be extended to twelve weeks if more time is required to complete an investigation.
In the 2022–23 financial year, Ofsted issued around 350 suspension notices out of more than 60,000 registered providers. Most suspensions are lifted before the six-week deadline.
New Road Nursery must now take steps to address any risks. Ofsted has confirmed they will lift the suspension as soon as they are satisfied that children’s safety is no longer threatened.
