Children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are welcomed into a “safe and supportive environment” at Dingley’s Promise, according to its latest Ofsted report. Inspectors rated the Gloucester-based early years setting as “Good” across all areas, citing strong relationships, an ambitious curriculum, and effective leadership.
“Staff build strong relationships with children and their families during their comprehensive induction process, which includes staff visiting them in their own home,” the report stated. “This approach helps children feel secure from the moment they begin attending.”
Dingley’s Promise caters to children aged 1 to 5, with 30 children currently on roll. The setting provides a maximum of 12 places at any one time, ensuring individualized attention for each child. Leaders and staff plan an “ambitious curriculum, enriched with sensory experiences, to meet children’s developmental needs.” Inspectors noted that the curriculum equips children with skills for future learning and life, helping them “grow into strong, capable and resilient individuals.”
Dingley’s Promise in Gloucester
Staff make effective use of strategies such as sign language, visual aids, and sensory tools to support children’s communication and emotional well-being. “Children explore dry ingredients, such as flour, with their hands and fingers,” the report highlighted. “Children investigate the different ways marks can be made, pushing wheeled toys through the flour.”
Leadership and management were commended for fostering a reflective and supportive culture among staff. “Leaders regularly conduct staff supervisions, offering strong support for staff’s well-being. This contributes to high levels of staff morale and a positive staff team,” the report said.
Parents praised the staff’s deep understanding of their children’s needs. “Staff actively encourage parents to engage in various training opportunities and information sessions to enhance their knowledge and further support their child’s development,” inspectors noted. These include training on first aid, managing transitions, and sensory processing.
The report also highlighted effective collaboration with external professionals, such as speech and language therapists and occupational therapists. These partnerships ensure that children’s needs are consistently met, and staff offer expertise to support smooth transitions to other settings or schools.
Inspectors noted the setting’s creative use of individual resource boxes tailored to each child’s interests and learning needs. “These boxes are labelled with children’s photos, allowing children to independently access them throughout the day to help regain focus and regulate their behaviour,” the report stated.
Staff also prioritise fostering independence in daily routines. “Staff use timers and visual prompts to help prepare children for everyday routines, such as nappy changes,” inspectors wrote. “Children hold their own nappies and wipes, and staff support their understanding of healthy practices.”
Dingley’s Promise in Gloucester
While the setting’s teaching quality was deemed good, the report identified some areas for development. “Leaders have introduced additional training and support for staff, but their newly acquired knowledge and skills are not yet fully embedded to raise the quality of their teaching to an even higher level,” the report noted.
Registered in 2023, Dingley’s Promise operates term-time only, offering sessional day care from 9:15 AM to 2:45 PM. The setting’s mission to support SEND children and their families is underscored by its dedication to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. Leaders effectively use additional funding to enhance children’s experiences, including musical therapy sessions and resources for home learning.
Inspectors concluded that the setting’s commitment to children’s development and well-being is evident in every aspect of its operation. “Children form secure relationships with staff and seek support when needed,” the report emphasised.
Dingley’s Promise in Gloucester
Lee Friend, chief operating officer at Dingley’s Promise said: “We are delighted that this Ofsted report reflects the commitment and hard work of our Gloucester Team and the success with which they respond to the individual needs of each child, to progress their learning and development.
“It is pleasing to see that our developmental work to create an inclusive and engaging curriculum was recognised, as well as our collaborative working with families and settings. Our specialist staff team will continue to ensure that every child in our setting is celebrated and given the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
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