A HAMPSHIRE pre-school is celebrating after an Ofsted inspection rated it ‘outstanding’ in all areas.

Colden Common Pre-School, which was inspected in early October, has moved up to the top grade from its previous rating of “good” in 2011.

The latest report says: “The quality of teaching is excellent. Staff are very well qualified and have an in-depth understanding of how children learn and develop. They provide high quality resources and use children’s interests to skilfully plan a wealth of memorable learning experiences indoors and outside. As a result, all children make exceptional progress from their starting points.”

The pre-school, which has 24 pupils, is located in the Community Centre in St Vigor Way.

Inspectors were impressed by the modern purpose-built environment as well as a large secure garden.

Leadership and management were also praised.

The report said: “The management committee supports the manager very well to drive improvement to benefit children. The management and staff team work exceptionally well together to monitor the quality of teaching and children’s progress.

Children are prepared extremely well for school. Staff build robust links with other providers to promote continuity in children’s learning and development. Parents are completely involved in their children’s learning. Parents and staff share a wealth of information about children’s learning at home and at pre-school, which contributes to their excellent progress”

Inspector Eileen Chadwick could only find one aspect in need of improvement – she said staff should consider how to create more opportunities for children to share and talk about their ideas.

Charlotte White, pre-school chairman, said: “We are so proud that all our hard work, enthusiasm and commitment, along with our excellent staff, setting and resources, have been acknowledged. We strive to continue to provide such a high level of childcare and look forward to welcoming more new children into our family.”

Supervisor Jacqui Hadley was also celebrating after graduating with a BA Hons in Early Years education. Her achievement means the pre-school, which has been running for 40 years, now has a degree-qualified management team of supervisor, deputy supervisor and assistant deputy.

For more details about the pre-school email hello@coldencommonpre-school.co.uk or call 01962 712477.