Joy for Fenland pre-school as it gains 'Outstanding' rating from Government inspectors

A Fenland pre-school which was told it needed to improve when it was inspected two years ago has now been given an 'Outstanding' rating.

Stepping Stones pre-school in Leverington was visited by Government inspectors last month and they found the setting's staff "demonstrate an exceptional understanding of what they intend children to learn in every aspect of the provision. As a result, children receive a rich and broad range of learning experiences."

The Ofsted report published this weeks said staff had worked tirelessly to support the children's families, including during the pandemic.

It said: "Parents overwhelmingly appreciate this. Staff have swiftly identified where children need the most support."

While interventions groups during each session "give staff specific opportunities to tailor children's learning to their individual needs and abilities."

The inspectors found the manager "expertly leads the team of staff and ensures that recruitment, staff supervision, performance management, and continuing professional development is highly effective".

Feedback from parents is overwhelmingly positive, says the report, about the excellent progress they feel their children have made in the care of the pre-schools staff.

It said: "Parents say they are extremely happy with all aspects of the pre-school and could not be more pleased that their children are able to attend."

The report adds: "Safeguarding is at the forefront of everything staff do at this pre-school. Stringent safeguarding policies and procedures ensure that staff work closely and swiftly with each other, parents, carers and professionals to keep all children safe from harm."

And it concludes: "Staff constantly and positively adapt activities and care practices to meet the individual needs of each child. It is this expert approach from each member of staff that enables children to achieve as they do, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).