A playgroup in Southport has been hailed as Outstanding in all areas following an inspection from Ofsted, which praised the group’s “inspirational leadership”.
Inspectors were so impressed by a visit to St Cuthberts Pre-School Playgroup, based at St Cuthbert’s Church Hall in Churchtown, that they gave Outstanding ratings for:
Overall effectiveness
Quality of education
Behaviour and attitudes
Personal development
Leadership and management
Inspectors said: “Children settle exceptionally well at this inviting pre-school. Staff have created a special learning environment in which children are safe and secure. Children arrive keen and enthusiastic to learn new skills.
“Respect is a golden thread that weaves through this exceptional pre-school. Staff truly want the very best for every family. All parents and children are valued.
“Staff welcome parents. They offer support and guidance as needed. Staff expertly use children’s interests along with what children need to learn next to plan exciting learning opportunities for the day ahead.
“There is an abundance of meaningful learning to prepare children for the next stage of their education.”
They added: “Leadership is inspirational. Managers ensure focused evaluation, self-reflection and collaboration put the needs of children and their families at the heart of every decision.
“The professional development opportunities are targeted and focused on improving experiences for children.
“Staff are highly skilled and knowledgeable. Their commitment ensures all children have the best possible chance to succeed.
“Staff are extremely well supported to carry out their roles. They have access to focused supervision sessions. They seize opportunities to discuss their well-being and receive specific feedback to help improve their practice. As a result, teaching is consistently of the highest standard. This means children benefit from inspirational experiences.
“The ethos in the pre-school is based on respect and real care. Staff work tirelessly to ensure all children feel loved and valued. They want children to enjoy their time in the nursery.
“Staff give all children specific praise and encouragement. This helps children to develop an abundance of self-confidence as they believe that they are unique and special.”
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