INSPECTORS have said that a nursery service provided to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital staff is ‘compromising’ children’s safety in a scathing ‘inadequate’ report.

Little Oaks Day Nursery, based on the hospital site, had been previously rated as ‘good’ by Ofsted but following a visit in November, found a number of failings.

The inspector found that safety hazards were not always dealt with in a timely manner, ‘compromising’ safety of children and that there were ‘weaknesses’ in the quality of teaching.

Of the four areas assessed at the centre, which is overseen by Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (GHNHSFT), the inspector found two to be ‘inadequate’ – management and development, behaviour and welfare – while the other two – teaching quality and outcomes for children – ‘required improvement’.

GHNHSFT deputy chief executive and director of people and organisational development, Emma Wood, said: “We’re obviously disappointed in the recent Ofsted rating as the Little Oaks Day Nursery had previously been rated as ‘good’. 

“Many of the actions required to improve our rating were planned prior to the inspection and we fully anticipate Ofsted will be satisfied with our progress and re-inspect the nursery more favourably in the next three to six months.

“The safety of the children who attend the nursery is our highest priority. We have been working with parents and the local constabulary to ensure there is confidence that children are safe. 

“We have already taken measures to improve security and safety on site including the installation of new gates and increased checks in the play areas.

“The staffing team are also engaged with our local early learning adviser on improving the quality of teaching at the nursery.

“We continue to update parents on our action plan and we are grateful for the support they provide and positive comments about our nursery.”

Five requirements have been issued by the education watchdog to bring up standards at the nursery before it undergoes its next inspection.