At a glance

Partou Sunny Days Day Nursery and Pre-school in Ellesmere Port has been shortlisted for the Nursery Team of the Year at the National NMT Nursery Awards 2026. The nursery was recognised for its high standard of childcare and teamwork, having achieved a 'strong standard' in all areas during an Ofsted inspection. This nomination highlights the nursery's commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for children.

Partou Sunny Days Day Nursery and Pre-school in Ellesmere Port has been shortlisted for Nursery Team of the Year at the National NMT Nursery Awards 2026.

According to the organisers, the award will go to the nursery team “that has developed and maintained an excellent standard of childcare showing exceptional group values and a commitment to working together for the common good.”

Earlier this year, Partou Sunny Days achieved ‘strong standard’ across all evaluation areas following an Ofsted inspection.

The final report noted that the setting offers “a safe and welcoming environment in which children can flourish.”  It added: “Everything staff and leaders do is for the benefit of the children in attendance.”

Situated close to Ellesmere Port Hospital, Partou Sunny Days provides a convenient day-care option to parents working in the centre of town, as well as the surrounding areas of Whitby, Great Sutton, Hope Farm and Whitby Heath.

Lauren Taylor, Partou Sunny Days Nursery Manager, said: “We are excited to be shortlisted for this major national award. “The team shares one clear vision: to help every child become a happy, confident and curious learner, ready for the next stage of life. “Every team member has contributed to our success, and I am proud of them all.”

Kirsty Jackson, Partou Co-Managing Director, said: “Congratulations to Lauren and the team at Sunny Days. “They were amongst the first in the country to achieve an impressive ‘strong standard’ across all evaluation areas under the new Ofsted inspection framework. “Several long-standing team members have worked together for many years and shaped a strong, consistent culture across the setting. “They thoroughly deserve this recognition.”

The NMT National Nursery Awards will be presented at an evening ceremony at Park Plaza London on 7 November 2026.

Editorial insight

Recognition at a national level can offer a significant boost to nurseries operating in competitive local markets, providing reassurance for parents and raising the profile of early years provision in the area. For settings like Partou Sunny Days Day Nursery and Pre-school, shortlisting for a national award is not only a mark of professional achievement but can also help attract and retain families seeking high standards of childcare.

With the nursery having recently secured a strong Ofsted rating under the updated inspection framework, the timing of this nomination may reinforce confidence among parents and staff. While such awards are primarily sector-facing, they can highlight the importance of investing in quality early years education, particularly in communities where demand for reliable childcare is linked to local employment patterns and essential services.

Story ideas and journalist angles

Local/community

Local Nursery’s National Recognition: Impact on Ellesmere Port Community

Partou Sunny Days Day Nursery's nomination for a national award highlights the impact of quality childcare on the Ellesmere Port community, especially for parents working in key local sectors.

Target audience local newspapers, community blogs Story potential 7/10 Human interest

Evaluating Ofsted’s New Inspection Framework Through Ellesmere Port Nursery

An analysis of how Partou Sunny Days Day Nursery's success under Ofsted's new inspection framework reflects broader trends in early childhood education standards.

Target audience education magazines, national news Story potential 6/10