Chester-based nursery, Ready Generations, has been rated Outstanding in a recent Ofsted report.

The charity operates a pioneering early years research nursery in Chester, bringing old and young together every day.

Set in Chester's Belong Care Village, the nursery is part of a growing number of intergenerational nurseries in the UK, enabling children and their 'grand-friends' to spend time with each other, learn and have fun.

The Ofsted report said: "Children feel a true sense of belonging, surrounded by nurturing adults who radiate genuine care and companionship."

Applauding the nursery, the report said: "Staff support children to gain an impressive sense of kindness, patience and understanding.

"They form a deep understanding of life and loss, developing a high level of emotional maturity.

"Children show genuine care and concern for others, developing exceptional skills in empathy."

It details the intergenerational aspect of the nursery, highlighting how children are taught to 'waltz' and 'quickstep' by the older residents, with 'older friends' bringing 'a wealth of expertise and sharing their wisdom with the children'.

Children also eat meals with their 'older friends' in the 'bistro' each day, where they share meaningful discussions and develop 'impressive social and conversational skills'.

The curriculum is focused on lifelong learning, such as the children taking part in the development of a nonverbal puppet show, visiting the nearby train station and enjoying walks along the canal with 'older friends'.

It added: "Staff consistently promote positive attitudes to difference, creating an environment that is completely welcoming and inclusive."

The nursery, which opened in 2022, has received a number of awards for its integrated approach to care and lifelong learning and works in partnership with the Belong Care Village in Chester.

Liz Ludden, co-founder of Ready Generations, said: "We are thrilled that our very special community and environment have been recognised by Ofsted.

"To attain outstanding in our first inspection is a real achievement and we would like to thank everyone who has helped us along the way, especially our wonderful grand-friends and families and our amazing staff team.'

Ruth Sandbach, nursery manager, added: "We are so excited with this inspection outcome and feel it highlights the value of bringing generations together.

Ready Generations also works on intergenerational projects nationally (Image via: Ready Generations)

"Our children absolutely adore their grand-friends and learn so much from them every day."

Ready Generations also works on intergenerational projects nationally with a growing number of primary schools and voluntary organisations through its Living Lives Together Programme.

One project is a Chester based intergenerational community choir, the Sankofa Songsters, led by Amanda Wrigley of Live the Beat.

The Songsters were catapulted onto a national stage when they were personally invited by Catherine, Princess of Wales to perform at her 'Together at Christmas' Carol Service held at Westminster Abbey in December 2024.

Ready Generations brings together a team of highly experienced early years education and social policy leaders, with a proven track record of operating Ofsted-rated outstanding early care andlearning environments.

The charity's vision is to make a difference to lifelong learning and care by becoming a leading provider of intergenerational practice and provision, as well as a resource for the latest intergenerational research both nationally and internationally.

Working across education and care sectors to share best practice, Ready Generations runs the award-winning Nursery in Belong providing the highest quality environment for young children, families and older people.

To find out more, visit here.