Everyone at Menheniot Playgroup is celebrating this month after its long awaited OFSTED inspection resulted in the village pre-school achieving an ‘Outstanding’ rating, the best result possible.
After visiting the setting on 14th September, the inspector was so impressed she graded the playgroup ‘Outstanding’ in all four categories: Effectiveness of leadership and management; quality of teaching, learning and assessment; personal development, behaviour and welfare; and outcomes for children.
In a glowing report the inspector praised the 'inspirational' management team saying they are 'incredibly knowledgeable, highly skilled and exceptionally committed'. She also commented that 'the ethos of value and respect is at the heart of the playgroup and is incorporated in everything staff do.'
Manager Emma Grange, who has been leading the pre-school since 2011, is thrilled with the inspection result saying, "It is an incredible recognition of all the hard work and commitment our staff put in to providing an inspirational learning environment for the children, enabling them to feel safe and happy to learn."
During the inspection staff were observed, parent feedback was examined and discussions were held with the staff and members of the committee. The resulting report was bursting with positive comments. The inspector was particularly impressed with the children's behaviour and noted their 'exceptionally close relationships with staff' and 'very strong friendships with children of all ages.'
OFSTED also complimented the setting's 'high priority on safeguarding children' and praised the 'wealth of high-quality opportunities for exploration indoors and out.' The report also acknowledged that the 'children make excellent progress from their starting points, which enables them to have the very best possible chance to succeed.'
So far this year the children have been enjoying a new and improved outdoor space and taking part in yoga sessions. Emma says, "We are always looking at new and interesting things to introduce to the children. We love what we do and it's so important to us that we let the children be children."
Menheniot Playgroup is a committee run pre-school for children aged two, three and four years. The group opened in 1985 and is based in the Old School building in the heart of the village. There are currently spaces available, included funded places, and anyone interested in attending is welcome to visit at any time to take a look around and meet staff.
Another great way to experience this setting is by attending the Little Owls stay and play session for babies and toddlers which takes place every Tuesday afternoon during term time from 1:30-3pm. A warm welcome and a hot drink await those busy parents and carers who are rushed off their feet!
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