Father complains to Ofsted after toddler son was left 'distressed' at Bardsley nursery

A distraught father has felt compelled to report an Oldham nursery to Ofsted after his toddler son, Alfie, ended up in hospital over the weekend.

Joshua Hawkins picked up Alfie, who is nearly two, on Friday at the end of his second session at the Simon House Nursery and Pre-School on Ashton Road in Bardsley.

Joshua said: “When I arrived at the nursery late on Friday afternoon I noticed Alfie really was in a distressed state.

“He was freezing cold and his hands were purple.

“He was wet too, as his nappy had leaked.

“After a very unsettled night on Friday, we ended up in hospital with Alfie on Saturday night.

“He was diagnosed with an upper respiratory infection and had a cold rash.

“He had a very high temperature.

“I’ve spoken to the staff at the nursery and they told me that they had taken his vest off earlier in the day due to it being wet.

"He was left to play out in a fleece top and thin waterproof coat, and no underwear.

“He’s clearly been left cold, though, and wet, but now they just seem to be firing excuses back, and they’ve said they believe he was wearing adequate clothing.

“I’ve just got no confidence in the nursery anymore and I’ve taken Alfie out of there.”

The Simon House Nursery and Pre-School has responded to Mr Hawkins' claims, insisting little Alfie was dressed appropriately.

A statement sent to the Chronicle read: "Firstly, we as a nursery are inline with the Early Years Foundation Stage and regulated by Ofsted. 

"All children explore the outside area during each session, and every child is dressed appropriately. 

"We have received a complaint from a parent in which we have  acknowledged, and then later an apology for the way staff were spoken to. 

"All of our children are nurtured and cared for to a high standard." 

A spokesperson from Ofsted has confirmed that a complaint against Simon’s House Nursery is currently being investigated.

The spokesperson said: “We can confirm that we have received a complaint about the incident and are looking into the matter.”

---

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.