Wibli Wobli Nursery Shines in First Inspection After Overcoming Adversity
Wibli Wobli, a Welsh-medium nursery in Newport, has received glowing praise in its first inspection conducted by Estyn and Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW). The nursery, which is known for its happy and nurturing environment, achieved a "good" rating across all critical areas, marking a significant milestone just two years after recovering from a devastating fire.
A Triumph Over Adversity
The nursery, located at Oak House, Vaughn Court, was faced with significant challenges when a fire destroyed its previous facilities in early 2024, impacting around 60 children and leaving families without childcare. However, with the support of Business Wales and £25,000 from the UK Steel Enterprise Support Programme, owner Natasha Baker was able to secure a new location at Cleppa Park and successfully reopen Wibli Wobli.
Commitment to Quality Care
During the recent inspection, Wibli Wobli was found to have “many strengths,” with inspectors noting that there were no areas of non-compliance or significant weaknesses. The nursery was lauded for its capable leadership, which fosters a team ethos and reflective practices, and most importantly, for its commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for children aged 0-5 years.
Emphasis on Welsh Language and Play-Based Learning
One of the standout features of Wibli Wobli is its integration of the Welsh language into care and learning. The nursery places a strong emphasis on play-based learning, where activities such as imaginative role play and scientific experiments encourage early creative and mathematical thinking. Observers noted that many children were already using Welsh words during their play, showcasing the effectiveness of the nursery's approach to language development.
Looking Forward: Plans for Continuous Improvement
While the inspection results are encouraging, inspectors provided two recommendations for further enhancement. These include improving the use of assessment information to tailor learning plans for each child and boosting staff confidence in using Welsh continuously throughout the day. The nursery is now set to develop an action plan to address these recommendations.
Wibli Wobli also plans to continue its expansion with the recent opening of a second site in Roath, Cardiff, which accommodates children up to age seven. As the only Welsh language nursery for babies under two, Wibli Wobli stands testimony to the growing demand for Welsh-medium childcare, nurturing young minds through language and play.
