A SHIPTON Bellinger preschool has been praised for promoting children’s good health and enhancing communication skills during a recent Ofsted inspection.

Shipton Bellinger Pre-school is celebrating after maintaining its ‘good’ rating in all four key areas since the last inspection in 2015.

The latest report finds that the manager is passionate about making a difference to children with one example of that being that the outdoor area of the preschool has been developed since the previous inspection.

The inspector also found that children are well behaved, make good progress and there is good support for those who speak English as an additional language.

Assessing the effectiveness of leadership and management, it is noted that arrangements for safeguarding are effective and staff have a good knowledge of how to keep children safe.

The report goes on to say that “staff make continual improvements that have a positive impact on children’s learning and development”.

In terms of quality of teaching it recognises that staff build on mathematical development well and that children develop confidence and self-esteem by singing and acting out favourite songs.

The pre-school is described as “relaxed and happy” and children are “confident and independent” with staff promoting emotional well-being and good health.

The report also highlights that “children have regular opportunities to enjoy, and learn about, the benefits of fresh air and exercise” including a music-andmovement programme.

Looking at the outcomes for children, the report notes that all children make good progress in their learning and development and they are “prepared well with the key skills needed for continuing their learning and starting school”.

Pre-school manager, Sandie Benton, said: “We were thrilled with our ‘good’ grading after our recent Ofsted inspection.

“I am so lucky to have a fantastic team who are dedicated to ensuring all children are cared for as individuals and therefore reach their full potential.

"We pride ourselves in our partnerships with parents and this was highlighted in feedback given by parents to the Ofsted inspector.”