Corby children's centre rated 'outstanding' after Ofsted challenge

BBC Children sending objects down a metal water chute — Inspectors said children at the Pen Green Centre were “ably supported by the staff to get the most out of their play”

A children’s centre branded “inadequate” by inspectors has now been regraded as “outstanding”.

In its latest report, Ofsted said the “quality of learning experiences” at the Pen Green Centre in Corby, Northamptonshire, was “exemplary”.

The centre had formally complained about the September 2023 inspection.

Its chair of governors Adam Cooper said the latest grading was a vindication of staff’s dedication, and a “great relief”.

After their latest visit, inspectors said children at Pen Green “behave exceptionally well and take great pride in their achievements”

Google Pen Green Centre — After their latest visit, inspectors said children at Pen Green “behave exceptionally well and take great pride in their achievements”

He described the September grading as a “huge shock” and “devastating for the wonderful staff”.

Among the issues picked out by inspectors were:

Children walk and run with objects in their mouths, such as food and a pen
Staff ask children if they are cross rather than trying to help children understand and name their feelings
Staff do not offer explanations or clear guidance, resulting in some children being upset and confused

The centre challenged the outcome of the inspection, saying it had never been graded lower than “outstanding” before.

Ofsted told the BBC then that it was unable to comment on individual cases.

immediate action is taken to safeguard children
children understand boundaries, which is “remarkable, given that the children are less than three years of age”
staff’s skilful interactions mean that even simple routines become a teaching moment

Ofsted said that “opportunities to build on what children know are expertly woven into the child’s play”

Child and adult in a sandpit in an outdoor area of a school building - buckets and spades are nearby — Ofsted said that “opportunities to build on what children know are expertly woven into the child’s play”

Mr Cooper said the new grading was a “great relief” but that it had been a traumatic time for staff, management, governors, children and families.

He said the centre valued the support of families and the community and that he hoped it could now work with Ofsted “so that inspectors appreciate the early years setting and the differences we have with the wider education sector”.

“We also want to share our experience with the sector so that others facing such an ordeal are better prepared to cope and that harm to all is prevented if possible,” he added.