Leaping Lambs Nursery closes permanently amid Ofsted investigation

Two nurseries in Keynsham and Willsbridge have closed permanently amid an investigation by Ofsted into safeguarding concerns.

Parents have been left searching for replacement provision as a result of the announcement by the owners of Leaping Lambs Preschool and Nursery at Elim Church in Keynsham and Forest School and Nursery at Jarretts Garden Centre in Willsbridge.

A letter seen by Bristol World from Leaping Lambs Nursery Ltd directors Michael and Rebecca Lewis to parents blamed the time taken by Ofsted to carry out its investigations, and the subsequent loss of income, for the closure of the business.

They added that the company had gone into liquidation - although nothing states this on the firm’s listing on Companies House. If this is the case, it is the job of the appointed liquidators to assess if any money owed to parents can be paid back.

Bristol World has contacted the company for comment, but is yet to receive a response. However, a spokesperson for Ofsted did issue a short statement.

It said: “This provider has informed us that they wish to withdraw their registration with Ofsted.”

Last month, the education watchdog confirmed that the registration had been suspended due to ‘enquiries into safeguarding concerns’.

The nursery in Keynsham closed on August 9. It was due to move to Broadlands Academy in St Francis Road as advertised on the group’s Facebook page.

There is still nothing on the company’s website mentioning the Ofsted suspension, or closure.

One parent told BristolWorld: “The communication has been almost non existent.”