THE head of Ofsted has visited Basingstoke College of Technology (BCoT) to see the ‘outstanding’ work done by its nursery.

Amanda Spielman wanted to see the impact the nursery can make to the college curriculum and students.

Her Majesty’s chief inspector spent time meeting with, and talking to, both nursery children and the staff who have recorded an ‘outstanding’ rating for three consecutive inspections from the education watchdog.

Ms Spielman was hosted by BCoT principal Anthony Bravo and met with nursery managers Rebecca Pickles and Fiona Dicks.

The chief inspector said: “It’s always a pleasure to see the providers that Ofsted inspects in action, especially when, like this one, they are doing really well for their children.

“The enthusiasm and dedication of staff is plain to see, and it’s clear that the nursery has really high aspirations for all of its children. It also provides a hugely valuable service to the young adults attending the college, allowing them to continue their own education.”

The BCoT Nursery plays a key role in the early years and health and social care curriculum at the college.

Students studying on these courses have the opportunity to do both work placements and work experience in the setting, spending time and undertaking activities with children across the nursery age range.

Commenting on the visit Mr Bravo said: “We are very proud that Ms Spielman selected our college to explore her interest in the wider benefits an outstanding nursery can bring to both the children in its care and the students studying here at BCoT.

“The nursery is not a stand-alone provision on the periphery of the college, it is very much integrated within our community and the successful delivery of key aspects of our curriculum.”

Students from other colleges and a number of universities including the University of Reading, Kingston University and the University of Winchester, also seek to complete their placements at the BCoT Nursery.

The BCoT Nursery offers full and part-time care for children aged three months to pre-school. It is open to BCoT staff and students as well as the general public with 70 per cent of children in its care coming from the surrounding community.