A childcare provider has been issued with a priority action notice by regulators due to worries about its management and running of the facility.

Abacus Day Nursery in Abergavenny was examined in October 2025 by Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) and Estyn, with a later report published detailing required urgent improvements at the Newmarket House site.

The centre provides all-day childcare for up to 32 children, from babies through to eight-year-olds.

Examiners judged children’s emotional welfare, care and development, physical environment, and teaching and assessment for eligible three and four-year-olds as adequate, noting that strengths outweigh weaknesses but improvements are needed.

Management and operational running were given a rating of inadequate, however, with inspectors finding that significant problems outweigh good points.

The report described a recent unsettled period when staff took on additional supervisory responsibilities.

Inspectors observed that the person in charge of the setting showed professionalism and resilience, and was working well with county officers.

However, they criticised leaders for failing to identify and address all risks or deal with significant maintenance requirements.

A priority action notice has been issued requiring immediate steps to put things right.

Inspectors noted that many children appeared happy and confident, taking part in activities such as role play in the home corner or investigating shells and water trays.

Older children were said to feel proud when seeing their artwork displayed, which helps build a sense of belonging.

Most are learning to take turns, use polite language, and follow instructions.

Yet examiners pointed out that some children became distressed when not given enough help with their play, and others did not receive sufficient support to share resources and stay involved.

Care and development was also rated as adequate.

Staff were described as kind and patient, forming secure attachments with children and families, maintaining good hygiene standards, and providing healthy meals and regular outdoor experiences.

Safety measures were found to be insufficient. Inspectors determined these measures fail to adequately protect children.

Inspectors also found physical problems.

Toilets for younger children were on a different floor, and children under two did not always have access to warm running water for handwashing.

CIW and Estyn have recommended improvements in cultural learning and regular Welsh language exposure.

They also suggested better curriculum understanding and more clear learning goals.

Abacus Day Nursery was asked to comment.