A NURSERY branded as failing by inspectors has turned itself around to move up two Ofsted grades in just four months since being taken over by new owners.

John and Alicia Proctor, who own South Hills Nursery in Wilton, took over the former Treetops Nursery in Bemerton Heath in February after it failed an Ofsted inspection at the end of 2009.

Inspectors rated the nursery as inadequate - the lowest possible rating - after finding a child playing unnoticed with a carrier bag, a blocked fire escape and inadequate safeguards to vet staff.

But an inspection in June saw it given a rating of good.

The inspection report said the needs of children are being met and that effective systems are now in place for “evaluating provision and driving continuous improvement ensure that the group is making good progress in raising and consolidating good quality provision”.

It also highlights the nursery’s systems for supporting children with special educational needs or disabilities and the partnership with parents.

At the time of Treetops closed and re-opened as South Hills, many parents were concerned about the nursery being taken over by private owners, but the Ofsted report said “feedback from parents and carers is positive, particularly in relation to the improvements within the provision under the new ownership”.

Director John Proctor said: “It’s a team effort that has managed to turn this around. I want to give credit to the parents who have supported us, we’ve had nothing but support from parents who have noticed a difference from the early days.”

The future of the nursery is still unsure as South Hills took over the Treetops contract, which runs out by the end of the year, and once the contract ends Wiltshire Council could put the contract out to tender.

Mr Proctor said they hope to continue running the nursery.