A NURSERY has been rated ‘inadequate’ by watchdogs.

Holly Trees Montessori Nursery, on Newland Street, Witham, was ranked as ‘inadequate’ in an Ofsted report.

Quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development and leadership and management were all given the same rating.

The report said: “Children are not well cared for.

"At times, there are insufficient staff available to meet children’s needs. Children are not provided with learning opportunities that capture or sustain their interest.”

Despite the nursery following a specific approach to learning, very few staff were trained in that method of teaching.

But the report also said: “The youngest babies are in their allocated baby room, they receive kind and caring interactions from staff.

“They are cared for in a calm environment, by a core staff team, who have experience of caring for babies.”

The report said there needs to be sufficient staff for morning drop-offs, written records, sickness protocols as well as safeguarding.

Holly Trees has been contacted for comment.