TIMSBURY Pre-School has gone a step up the Ofsted ratings ladder.
Ofsted chiefs rated the Jubilee Hall-based pre-school a “good” in their latest inspection of the early years’ provider.
In the previous inspection carried out in January 2010, it was judged as “satisfactory” and pre-school leaders were urged to make improvements.
This time around Ofsted rated all categories of the inspection good but it has told the 23-pupil pre-school that it needs to develop more opportunities for children to explore technology and provide ICT equipment to be rated outstanding.
In her report the inspector, Alison Large said: “Children enjoy their time at the pre-school and they are welcomed into a warm and friendly setting by staff who meet the children’s learning needs well. Staff aim to ensure that children are learning through their play by providing interesting and worthwhile activities.”
Heaping further on staff, Mrs Large added: “Staff carry out observations of the children, which are linked to the different areas of learning and staff use these to identify the next steps for each child.
"Systems for planning and assessment are monitored and developed to ensure the activities and learning experiences support children’s interests and the next steps in their learning.”
Miss Large goes on to say in her report that the pre-school has a range of resources to stimulate children’s interest and provide many opportunities for learning and enjoyment.
“They have opportunities to count and recognise shapes and name colours. Children are supported to develop confidence in communicating, speaking and listening and staff repeat words to the children and provide alternative words to extend the children’s vocabulary.
"However, at present children have limited access to technology resources in their play that enable them to explore ICT,” said Miss Large.
Looking at children’s well-being Mrs Large said the pre-school which opened in 1972, has “good hygiene routines” and youngsters are reminded by the staff to wash their hands before eating and after using the toilet.
“The pre-school and parents provide a variety of healthy and nutritious snacks which include fruit and vegetables.
"Good systems are in place to inform staff of any health or dietary issues the children may have and staff keep thorough records of accidents or any medication administered to children.
"Effective systems are in place for behaviour management and children behave well, added Miss Large, who concluded that the pre-school has a good partnership with children’s parents.
Pre-school supervisor Wendy Snow welcomed the inspector’s report.
“The pre-school was very pleased with the strong and positive comments contained in the report which stated the children are welcomed into a warm, friendly setting, where they are valued and included to ensure none are disadvantaged,” said Wendy.
