STAFF AT a children’s day-care at a school in Rhyl are celebrating after receiving a glowing report following a recent inspection by Care Inspectorate Wales and Estyn.

Little Acorns, which opened in 2019, was rated ‘excellent’ in well-being; care and development; teaching and assessment; and leadership and management, and ‘good’ with regard to its environment.

Located on the site of Christ the Word Catholic School, Little Acorns provides day-care to 69 children between two and 11 years old.

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The inspection took place in February 2024, and highlighted several positive aspects including:

  • The voice of children is exceptionally strong - they choose their own resources, which enables them to make effective choices and develop their play well
  • Children of all ages settle exceptionally well and feel secure as they play alongside their friends confidently
  • Children as young as two make their needs known exceptionally well and have developed their own way of communicating using non-verbal signs
  • Practitioners support children's health and well-being highly effectively. They attend a suitable range of courses and follow good practice relating to safeguarding children
  • Practitioners provide excellent support for children - they are thoughtful, calm and gentle with the children and always use positive behaviour management strategies highly effectively
  • Provides an outstanding level of care for the children
  • Leaders are extremely enthusiastic and passionate about the work of the setting. They manage and support staff exceptionally well and there is a very strong culture of collaboration
  • Leaders set high expectations for themselves and practitioners

Dawn Anderson, childcare and play development manager, said: “I am thrilled to share the fantastic news that our Little Acorns setting in Christ the Word Catholic School has received excellent ratings in their recent joint CIW and Estyn inspection.

“This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our setting leader Craig and the whole team.

“I am beyond proud of the effort put in by everyone involved in making our setting a welcoming and nurturing environment for our little ones.”