Walpole Cross Keys pre-school flying high with outstanding Ofsted
Staff and children are celebrating after their Fenland pre-school was rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.
Ladybirds Pre-School in Walpole Cross Keys is on a high after receiving a glowing report from the education inspectors last week.
The pre-school, based in the village primary school in Sutton Road, was judged as ‘good’ five years ago.
But, following an inspection last month, it has now been assessed as outstanding in all aspects of early years education.
Delighted pre-school manager Nikki Courtman said: “It is a tremendous achievement.
“In September we did not know if we were going to remain open as we were struggling for numbers but that is steadily picking up.
“Our secret is being proactive with change.”
A report written by inspector Deborah Hunt said: “The learning environment is used superbly to harness and capture children’s interest and fuel their imagination.
“The cohesive, experienced and stable team know children extremely well and offers them a cosy, relaxed and stimulating environment and a wealth of stimulating activities.”
Ms Hunt said children benefit from high quality teaching and individually tailored educational programmes.
The “in-depth knowledge” of staff on how each child prefers to learn ensured that they make excellent progress.
She highlighted how youngsters immerse themselves in enhanced activities – such as creating woolly sheep and egg-box dragons, as well as tasting Chinese noodles and spring rolls, using chopsticks and listening to stories about Chinese New Year.
The behaviour of children was also praised, as was effectiveness of leadership and management.
Ms Hunt said: “This established, highly-skilled and well-qualified team are superbly supported by the keen committee.
“This ensures the efficient running of the setting and a shared vision of how to drive improvement.
“Rigorous, ongoing training ensures required knowledge is up-to-date.”
To improve even further, the school has been advised to enhance the already excellent support for the youngest children by adding to sensory resourcing and messy play opportunities.
