A PRE-SCHOOL has maintained its ‘Outstanding’ status, praised by an education watchdog for its curriculum and the relationships between children and learning.

Following an inspection in October, Little Orchard has received a glowing report from Ofsted, commending the establishment in all areas.

This includes the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development and leadership and management.

The pre-school in Middle Woodford, based at Woodford Valley Primary School, was rated ‘Requires Improvement’ in 2015, but climbed out of this category in both 2016 and this year.

Inspectors highlighted that children benefitted from a “well-targeted curriculum”, and noted that “staff support children to develop high levels of confidence in social situations”.

“Children are very well prepared for school,” showing “excellent listening and attention skills”, the report later added.

Feeling “fortunate and absolutely delighted”, Little Orchard Pre-School manager Verena Huntley said: “We want to make sure we keep up this high standard and continue close links with the community.

“Our focus is to support children and put them on the right path, ready to go to school.

“This was a huge achievement for us and we hope to continue this standard. We have been told it is impossible but we hope to achieve similar for our recently opened second site.”

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