Partou Acorns Day Nursery and Pre-school in Leeds has been recognised as one of the city’s leading early years settings after achieving an ‘Outstanding’ rating in all areas from Ofsted.
The glowing report highlights the nursery’s nurturing environment, high-quality teaching and exceptional support for children’s development. In her final inspection report, the Ofsted inspector praised the nursery for creating a “stimulating and inspiring” environment in which “children are very happy and thrive.” From the moment they arrive, children are encouraged to explore, play and learn with confidence, guided by a team that understands how to support individual needs and abilities.
Located on Otley Road in Adel, the nursery provides high-quality early years care and education to families across the local community. Its bright and spacious playrooms offer a rich variety of activities, while the secure outdoor spaces include mud kitchens, slides and a dedicated woodland area for imaginative and nature-based play.
A standout feature noted in the Ofsted report is the nursery’s strong commitment to listening to children. Inspectors highlighted how staff “give children every opportunity to have a voice within the nursery,” including through a pre-school committee where children help choose weekly themes that shape activities and learning. This child-led approach not only boosts confidence but also nurtures early leadership, decision-making and communication skills.
The inspector also commended the team’s meticulous approach to teaching and assessment. Staff complete detailed, precise evaluations of each child’s progress, enabling them to quickly identify any gaps in learning and provide timely, effective support. This commitment ensures every child receives the personalised guidance they need to flourish.
Emma Lacey, Partou Acorns Nursery Manager said:
“I am so proud of the team for achieving a remarkable but fully deserved outcome. We value the unique interests and needs of each child in our care, delivering tailored activities that help them to grow into confident young learners.
“Supporting each other is also a key element in our success, together with the strong bonds we have with the families who we share ideas with every day.”
Samantha Rhodes, Partou Managing Director said:
“Huge congratulations to Emma and the whole team at Acorns in Adel. Their passion, care and dedication are evident throughout the Ofsted report.
“Being rated as ‘Outstanding’ is wonderful recognition for the inspiring environment they’ve created where children feel safe, happy and truly thrive.”
Partou Acorns is part of Partou, one of the UK’s largest day nursery providers and a member of the Netherlands’ leading childcare group. The Netherlands is widely recognised for its childcare excellence and was recently ranked number one globally for child wellbeing in a UNICEF report. This international expertise supports Partou’s commitment to delivering outstanding care, learning and development opportunities.
With its dedicated team, enriching learning environment and newly awarded Outstanding rating, Partou Acorns Nursery and Pre-school continues to be a trusted and highly regarded choice for families in Leeds. The nursery remains committed to giving every child the best possible start — encouraging curiosity, confidence and a lifelong love of learning.
