DELABOLE Mini Minors Preschool Playgroup has been awarded 'Good' in every aspect of its recent Ofsted inspection.

Ofsted, which carried out its inspection on January 14, said: "Children quickly settle at this small pre-school. This is because there is a high staff ratio. As a result, staff supervise children well and the children clearly benefit from the good support they receive."

The inspector advised that only one recommendation was needed towards gaining an 'Outstanding' judgement in the future — that all learning opportunities should be promoted while children waited for snack time.

The report summarised that staff respond to children's ideas and plan spontaneous activities to promote their learning and development, staff use the outdoor environment well to effectively teach and engage children, who are happy, settled and confident because of the strong relationships they have with staff, and staff use everyday opportunities to promote children's literacy, communication and language skills well.

The Ofsted inspector said she enjoyed visiting the nursery allotment with the children and noted they had great fun running about and exploring the outdoor environment.

She also judged that 'staff teach children to effectively manage their own behaviour. They act as good role models and talk calmly with the children, providing consistent boundaries that help them feel secure. Staff provide a very friendly approach and children respond well to their caring and gentle manner'.

Parents described the nursery as 'very friendly and welcoming' where 'children learn and progress well'. Parental views are sought and valued by the staff.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.