We’re incredibly proud to share that Woodville Preschool, part of the SM family, has achieved one of the strongest Ofsted outcomes in the country, receiving three ‘Exceptional’ gradings under Ofsted’s new inspection framework.
Awarded the highest possible grade in three areas: behaviour, attitudes and establishing routines, children’s welfare and wellbeing, and inclusion, Woodville's preschool was rated Strong for achievement, curriculum and teaching, and leadership and governance, with safeguarding standards fully met.
Since Ofsted introduced its new five-point grading system, ‘Exceptional’ has been reserved for provision that represents the very best practice nationally. Achieving three of these top gradings is an extraordinary accomplishment and reflects the exceptional care, education and support children and families experience every day at Woodville.
A place where every child belongs
At the heart of Woodville’s success is a deeply inclusive approach that ensures every child is seen, valued and supported to thrive.
Inspectors praised the team’s work with children with SEND and those facing barriers to learning, noting the “transformational impact” staff have on children’s lives. The report highlighted the expertise and passion of the setting’s SEND leaders, whose knowledge is shared across the whole team to create meaningful opportunities for every child.
This commitment to inclusion is something we believe is fundamental to exceptional early years education. When children feel safe, understood and celebrated for who they are, they have the confidence to explore, learn and grow.
Supporting children and families together
The report also recognised the extensive support Woodville provides beyond the nursery day.
From coordinating visits with health professionals to helping families access practical support, including clothing, food banks and seasonal essentials, the team takes a whole-family approach that helps children flourish both at nursery and at home.
Strong partnerships with families are at the heart of everything we do. By taking the time to listen, understand and offer support when it’s needed most, the Woodville team creates lasting relationships that make a meaningful difference.
Creating meaningful learning experiences
Inspectors described children’s behaviour as “impeccable” and praised the “wonderfully harmonious environment” created by the team.
Woodville’s curriculum places a strong emphasis on communication and language development, alongside personal, social and emotional growth. Children are encouraged to develop confidence, curiosity and independence through rich, real-world experiences that broaden their understanding of the world around them.
Whether making smoothies, tending the garden, practising yoga or learning to use real tools and utensils safely, children are given opportunities to build skills through meaningful, hands-on experiences. Smaller nurture groups also provide additional support for children who benefit from extra encouragement in developing communication and social skills.
A team committed to excellence
Ofsted recognised Woodville’s leadership team as “highly proactive, ambitious, reflective and committed to continuous improvement”, highlighting the strength of the nursery’s culture and its focus on delivering the very best for children, families and colleagues.
Amanda Gadsby, Nursery Manager at Woodville Preschool, said:
“We are incredibly proud of this result, which reflects the unwavering dedication, passion and commitment of our entire team.
Every day, our staff work to ensure every child and family feels welcomed, valued and included. We recognise that every child’s learning journey is unique, and our team is committed to nurturing each individual, supporting them to thrive, achieve, and develop the skills and confidence they need for the future. This achievement is a testament to the care, dedication and professionalism of our staff, who consistently go above and beyond to provide the very best experiences and opportunities for every child. We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised the difference we make, and we will continue to strive for excellence in everything we do.”
A proud moment for SM
Sarah Mackenzie, CEO of SM, added:
“Amanda and her team have done something remarkable. Three ‘Exceptional’ grades under the new framework is something very rare and is a huge achievement that belongs to the team at Woodville, who work so hard for their children and families every day. The highest grades came for inclusion and for children’s wellbeing, and that tells you everything about this team. They treat every child as an individual, they wrap support around whole families, and they show what early years education looks like at its very best. Everyone at SM is enormously proud of them.”
This achievement is a wonderful reflection of Woodville’s commitment to creating a nurturing, inclusive and inspiring environment where children can thrive. We’d like to congratulate Amanda and every member of the team on this exceptional recognition and thank them for the difference they make to children and families every single day.
