A PLAYGROUP in Worcester has been judged outstanding' by Government inspectors.

London Road Playgroup and Pre-School has achieved the accolade from Ofsted, after it found the standards of care and education were excellent.

The inspectors said: "Children thoroughly enjoy their time in the setting and staff give each child exceptional support to enable individuals to achieve their full potential."

London Road Playgroup and Pre-School is managed by a voluntary management committee, made up of parents and carers of children at the pre-school and members of the local community. The group opened in 1968 and operates from St Martin's Parish Centre in Victoria Avenue.

Manager Fliss Rothery said: "To receive outstanding' in all areas of care and learning was wonderful, especially when only one per cent of all schools and nurseries have achieved outstanding'.

"We had not long obtained our Gold Quality Assurance Award so this was the icing on the cake."

The inspectors praised the staff at the setting for the level of care and education provided. They said: "The quality of teaching and learning is outstanding. Staff are animated and use their excellent understanding of the Foundation Stage curriculum to help children progress in all areas. Each staff member takes responsibility for a particular area of the curriculum which they ensure is fully implemented and evaluated."

The children were also praised and the report said: "Children have an excellent attitude to learning, are highly motivated and very keen to take part in all activities available to them. They settle happily and confidently on arrival and quickly gain confidence to take responsibility and initiative for their learning." The playgroup achieved outstanding' grades in all six areas of the inspection.

The report said: "Staff demonstrate a great enthusiasm for creating a learning environment that simulates, excites and motivates children of all ages."