A Greenwich nursery has been criticised by Ofsted after it reportedly had so little bedding that children ‘sleep in pushchairs’, but the nursery and parents have challenged the watchdog’s assessment.

Bright Stars Kids Daycare in Plumstead has been rated as ‘requires improvement’ in all areas in a report published on February 12.

The inspector said in their report that leaders had not addressed inconsistencies in day-to-day teaching at the nursery, despite understanding the overall intent of their curriculum.

They also said that sleeping arrangements at the provision were unsatisfactory, with children being uncomfortable and not able to stretch or turn.

The inspector added: “Leaders have not ensured that there are suitable sleeping facilities and arrangements in place.

"There is not enough bedding and beds available for children, and they sleep in pushchairs that limit their comfort and space.”

The report also criticised staff at the nursery for not making sure that younger children are given opportunities to develop physical skills.

However, several parents of children at the nursery have challenged the claims made in the report.

Cliff Manning told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS): “Our children go to Bright Stars and we feel they are happy, thriving and safe.

"All the staff are professional and caring. Therefore, as parents we were surprised that Ofsted chose to give them this rating.

"Bright Stars has been very open about the process throughout which is very welcomed and reflects the real community feel of the nursery.”

Leaders reportedly build strong relationships with parents at the nursery, with the inspector saying that staff give daily updates to tell them how their child is doing.

Rosalind Wilks and Jonathan Jobling said they were thrilled with the care their eldest daughter had received at the nursery since she joined last summer.

The couple told the LDRS: “She is happy and thriving developmentally. Our two-month-old baby daughter is now on the waiting list for next year and we are content and safe in the knowledge that she will be in the best possible hands at Bright Stars.”

John and Nursev Morris, directors of the nursery, told the LDRS in a statement: “Ofsted inspected Bright Stars Kids Daycare on December 6 2023.

"Unfortunately, they graded us as ‘requires improvement’. We do not believe the Ofsted report accurately reflects our nursery and it was very disappointing.”

They added: “Nevertheless, we implemented the requested changes immediately and we look forward to our reinspection.

"All our children at Bright Stars Kids Daycare thrive, including our children with SEND as confirmed by their parents. We are happy to discuss any of the points raised in the report with any prospective parents/carers.”

Bright Stars Kids Daycare opened in 2021 and provides full day care to children aged between one and four years old.

The nursery had 20 children on the roll at the time of the inspection.