Case Study | From Good to Outstanding: The Journey of Collaborative Working

A case study reflecting on partnership working between SIL's Early Years Education Partners (EYEPs) and the University of Liverpool, resulting in an “Outstanding” Ofsted judgement across all areas.

Case Study

“From Good to Outstanding - The Journey of Collaborative Working” 

• Authored by Kids in Bloom Nursery Manager, Stella Arends, in collaboration with SIL EYEP, Sam McKenna.
• The partnership focused on curriculum conversations, leadership coaching, and reflective practice, empowering staff to articulate learning intent and impact. 

EYEP support included:
 

• Curriculum Conversations: Strengthening staff understanding of curriculum progression and intent.
• Staff Development: Coaching staff to articulate learning intentions and support children’s next steps.
• Reflective Tools: Introducing structured self-evaluation (e.g., RAG-rated audits, verbal case studies, alignment with Ofsted descriptors).
• Leadership Coaching: Supporting the manager in delegation, empowering room leads, and evidencing impact through supervision and performance management.
• Environment and Cultural Capital: Reflecting on continuous provision, including allotment area and emotion regulation zones to support wellbeing and independence.

Ofsted Outcome

In August 2024, Kids in Bloom achieved an Outstanding judgment across all areas.

The Ofsted report highlighted themes nurtured through the EYEP partnership:

“Staff build strong bonds with children and know them exceptionally well.”

“There is a highly ambitious curriculum for all children.”

“Staff continually reflect on what children need to learn.”

“Leadership and management are outstanding.”

These strengths were linked to the EYEP-supported development journey and the manager’s consistent drive for excellence.

SIL EYEP, Sam McKenna reflected that:

“It was an absolute privilege to work alongside Stella and the dedicated team at Kids in Bloom. 

From the outset, their passion for early years education and their unwavering commitment to continuous improvement were evident. 

Together, we engaged in open, reflective practice—sharing ideas, observing learning in action, and celebrating progress at every stage. 

What stood out most was the team’s growing confidence to showcase their work, articulate their curriculum intent, and demonstrate the real impact on children’s learning and wellbeing. 

The Outstanding outcome was a true reflection of the shared vision, hard work, and collective strength within this remarkable setting.”