Circle Centre nursery in Middle Claydon, Buckingham, is celebrating after receiving its fifth consecutive Outstanding rating from Ofsted. The latest inspection, carried out in July 2025, confirmed the nursery’s continued excellence in providing specialist education and early support for autistic children and those with sensory, communication and interaction differences.
The Ofsted report described the provision as “outstanding” and praised the nursery’s commitment to recognising each child’s individuality. Inspectors said children thrive in the setting, which offers a calm, purposeful and enabling environment designed specifically to meet their needs. The report also highlighted the holistic support given to families, including practical strategies to use at home and advice on accessing all available entitlements and benefits.
Staff were commended for providing one-to-one support, enabling children to participate in planned routines and activities at their own pace while also encouraging them to lead their play and make independent choices. Inspectors noted that children are curious, eager to explore and supported to transition smoothly between activities.
Sarah Sweet-Rowley, CEO of Circle Centre and its parent charity Autism Early Support (AES), said: “We are delighted with the findings of the Ofsted report. Our team work tirelessly to provide the best possible care and start for the children we support, and this result is testament to that dedication.”
Founded in 2001, AES is a charity specialising in autism education and therapeutic support for children up to the age of 12. Alongside the services provided at Circle Centre, AES offers training to schools and 24/7 guidance for parents through its bespoke online resource, The Parents Portal.
More information can be found at AutismEarlySupport.org.uk.
