Ofsted has lifted a Chippenham nursery’s suspension after urgent safeguarding training was given to staff at the provision.
New Road Nursery was temporarily shutdown by inspectors on 2 July – after discovering that children may have been at risk of harm.
According to a letter issued by the setting to parents, one incident involved a child who suffered a head injury in the playground.
Staff gave first aid and the child initially appeared well. Symptoms later emerged that could have suggested concussion.
Parents were called and advised to attend hospital, where the child was given a clean bill of health. However, Ofsted said the nursery should have called an ambulance.
A second concern related to a child with numerous pre-existing injury forms on file.
Inspectors believed this should have prompted a new referral to the Integrated Front Door – Wiltshire Council’s safeguarding team.
The nursery said it had already contacted the team previously and was advised there was no cause for concern. But Ofsted felt a further referral was needed based on ongoing observations.
On 3 and 4 July, welfare requirements notices were issued. These legal notices required the nursery to act quickly to address safeguarding issues.
By 4 July, leaders were told to take immediate and appropriate action when concerns arose, carry out proper risk assessments, and ensure prompt medical help was sought after injuries.
By 10 July, staff needed to demonstrate a clear understanding of child protection procedures. Leaders were also told to better recognise behaviours that may indicate safeguarding concerns.
Additionally, Ofsted demanded improved monitoring and training for staff to help them manage children’s behaviour more effectively.
Follow-up calls were made on 10 and 15 July. An in-person regulatory visit took place on 14 July.
Inspectors found the nursery had acted on all required improvements. Safeguarding knowledge had been strengthened, policies updated, and risk management procedures improved.
In a report, Ofsted concluded: “We found that the provider has improved staff and leaders’ knowledge and understanding of child protection procedures and how to alert the relevant authorities when concerns arise about children’s welfare.
“This includes when children display behaviours that may cause concern.
“We also found that risk assessments and support plans have been put in place for when children display challenging behaviour that may cause themselves harm.
“We also found that the first-aid policy has been updated and that leaders and staff are clear about the action they need to take if a child has a serious injury.
“The information gathered suggests that the provider is now meeting the requirements of their registration.”
On 15 July, the suspension was lifted. Ofsted confirmed the risk of harm had been removed.
