Council nursery recognised by Ofsted for its top-notch provision

Picture captions: Children and staff at the Archway Children's Centre, which has just been rated "outstanding" by Ofsted.

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A council-run nursery in Archway is celebrating after achieving the highest-possible rating by Ofsted.

The “outstanding” rating given to Archway Children’s Centre, in Vorley Road, now means half of the council-run nurseries have been awarded the top grade by inspectors.

The centre was praised across the board in a glowing report which noted that “children are happy and feel safe” there and staff “build exceptionally strong partnerships with parents”.

The inspection found the management team to be “inspirational” and children are “exceptionally well prepared for their next stage in learning and for their move to school”, the report added.

Mita Pandya, executive head of the nursery, said: “We are extremely pleased at the inspector’s findings. We believe that it is not just what is observed on the day that counts – it is crucial that all the procedures and systems are in place underneath to provide high-quality care and education every day. This is what improves outcomes for all the children here.

“At Archway Children’s Centre we have an integrated, holistic and responsive approach which develops children’s physical health, emotional wellbeing, creative and critical thinking skills. This is done through sensitive interaction, an enabling environment and a partnership with parents so all children reach their full potential to achieve positive outcomes.”

Cllr Joe Caluori, Islington Council’s executive member for children, young people and families, said: “Congratulations to Mita and her team at Archway Children’s Centre – being rated ‘outstanding’ across the board is a brilliant achievement and the staff deserve recognition for all their hard work, week in, week out.

“Having half of our nurseries rated ‘outstanding’ is a reflection of the priority the council puts on making sure children get the best possible start in life.”