Tops Winchester Ofsted Inspection

We’re thrilled to announce that Tops Winchester has achieved the “Expected Standard” across all six areas in its most recent Ofsted inspection under the new education inspection framework.

This outstanding result reflects the dedication of our team and our ongoing commitment to providing high-quality early years care and education in a safe, nurturing and inspiring environment.

Understanding Ofsted’s New Framework

If you’re more familiar with Ofsted’s previous grading system (such as “Good” or “Outstanding”), you may be wondering what this new framework means.

The updated approach places greater emphasis on:

• Children’s everyday experiences

• The quality of staff interactions

• Safeguarding and welfare

• Children’s well-being

• The overall effectiveness of the setting

Achieving the Expected Standard across all areas confirms that Tops Winchester is fully meeting Ofsted’s requirements and delivering an environment where every child can learn, develop and thrive.

What the Inspection Highlighted

Ofsted’s report recognised many strengths across the nursery, including:

Warm and Respectful Relationships

Children feel secure, confident and valued. Inspectors noted the positive impact of our team’s focus on nurturing self-confidence and encouraging kind, respectful relationships. Children consistently demonstrate consideration for others and build meaningful friendships.

Strong Support for Learning and Development

Children make steady progress from their starting points, including those who face barriers to learning. They develop vital communication, language, social and emotional skills—learning to take turns, negotiate, share ideas and collaborate with peers.

A Culture of Encouragement and Resilience

Staff regularly praise children’s efforts and achievements, helping to build confidence, resilience and a willingness to embrace new challenges. This supportive approach ensures children are well prepared for their next steps in learning.

High Expectations for Behaviour

Positive interactions are consistently modelled by staff, who use everyday moments to encourage cooperation, turn-taking and conversation. During routines such as mealtimes, children are supported to engage in meaningful discussions where their thoughts and ideas are listened to and valued.

Strong Leadership and Curriculum Understanding

Leaders were commended for their clear understanding of the curriculum and commitment to continuous improvement. Since the last inspection, the nursery has strengthened learning opportunities across all areas, with staff confidently embedding age-appropriate skills into daily play and routines.

A Message from Our Nursery Manager, Kayleigh Moss

“We are absolutely delighted with our Ofsted outcome. This is a fantastic reflection of the dedication, hard work and commitment of our whole nursery team. We are incredibly proud of the care, support and learning experiences we provide for the children in our setting every day.

“The outcome recognises the consistent effort of our team and the nurturing, safe and positive environment we strive to create. I couldn’t be prouder of everyone’s contributions. We will continue to reflect, develop and work together to provide the very best care and experiences for every child.”

What This Means for Families

For parents and carers, this result reaffirms that Tops Winchester is a place where:

• Your child is safe, happy and well cared for

• Staff know each child individually and support their unique needs

• Learning is woven into play, routines and everyday interactions

• Positive relationships and behaviour are encouraged and celebrated

• Leaders are committed to ongoing improvement and high-quality provision

The full Ofsted report is available to view on the Ofsted website: Inspection Report

This achievement belongs to our entire nursery community: our talented team, the children in our care, and the families who trust us every day. Together, we’re creating a setting where every child can flourish.

If you’d like to find out more about Tops Winchester or arrange a visit, please get in touch with our team.