Ofsted has suspended the registration of Blossoms Preschool on Queen Elizabeth Way, in Berechurch.
The watchdog informed parents in a letter from Ofsted’s early years regulatory inspector.
The preschool – which has 60 children – will be shut for six weeks until February 23.
The Ofsted letter says: “We reasonably believe that the continued provision of childcare may expose children to a risk of harm.
“The purpose of the suspension if to allow time for enquiries to be made and/or for steps to be taken to eliminate or reduce any risk of harm.
“Suspension is a temporary measure. We will review the situation regularly and will lift the suspension as soon as we are satisfied that children are not at risk.”
It adds: “If we consider that the provider is no longer suitable to provide childcare, we may take steps to cancel the registration while the suspension is in place.
“You can contact your local authority if you wish to obtain details of other childcare providers with current vacances.”
One parent, who asked not to be named, told the Gazette: “I know there has been lots of safeguarding breaches.
History – Blossoms preschool was rated Good in 2022 and in September 2023, Ofsted received concerns that the provider was not meeting some legal requirements which led to ‘actions taken’ in 2024 (Image: Newsquest) The parent said they have had to stop work due to the temporary closure, adding: “The staff that work directly with the children are lovely. It’s not their fault – they must be heartbroken.”
In response, a spokesman for Blossoms Preschool said: “We cannot comment as it is part of an ongoing investigation.
“We trust Ofsted to complete their investigations.”
An Ofsted spokesman said they will monitor the suspension as set out in their guidance.
In September 2023, Ofsted told Blossoms told to take action to ensure staff implement the safeguarding policy for children after concerns were raised.
Ofsted later said the preschool had met the safeguarding and welfare actions raised.
Blossoms was previously rated ‘good’ after an Ofsted inspection in April 2022.