‘Kvelling’ Jewish nursery retains ‘outstanding’ Ofsted rating

A “kvelling” Jewish nursery in Wimbledon has retained its “outstanding” Ofsted rating after an inspection last month.

The Apples and Honey Nursery – which caters to children aged two to five – was previously deemed “outstanding” in the last inspection in May 2016.

The latest report published on 20 February praised nursery leaders for their “exceptionally high expectations for every child” and hailed staff’s “excellent teaching skills.”

“Children flourish in this outstanding nursery,” the report says. They are “consistently engaged, excited and interested, and enjoy exploring the excellent range of learning experiences,” it says.

“Parents speak of the nursery as a ‘family’. They value the opportunities to share in their children’s learning experiences. For instance, staff, children and families of different faiths and beliefs come together for the weekly celebration of the Jewish Sabbath,” it adds.

The nursery’s founder and principal Judith Ish-Horowicz was “kvelling” while reading the report. “We have such an amazing staff team,” she said. “We benefit from having a strong framework of Jewish values and traditions to ensure that every child reaches their full potential in a stimulating and nurturing environment.”

The headteacher Gila Godsi said she felt “so proud” listening to a parent tell the Ofsted inspector her child is “exceptionally safe” and “genuinely loved by the staff.”

The Wimbledon nursery won the Community Initiative award at Jewish News’ Night of Heroes reception in 2018.