A PRESCHOOL manager praised her "tight knit" team following their latest Ofsted inspection.

Powick Preschool, based in the parish hall in Malvern Road, near Worcester, has been rated 'Good' by Ofsted following an inspection in July.

The preschool, which takes care of children aged two to four during school term times, was praised by Ofsted for its quality of education, behaviour, personal development, and leadership.

Anna Morris, Powick Preschool's manager, said: "We're really pleased with how our inspection went.

"The team here are absolutely integral. It's really tight knit, so that's important for the children and their parents as there's good continuity in terms of the staff they see here each day.

"It helps in their development."

Ofsted's latest report states that staff at Powick Preschool respond sensitively to children's needs and provide reassuring cuddles when children show they need them.

The report notes that children gain an understanding of the world through their experiences at Powick Preschool, noting the pre-school's enthusiasm for the outdoors and its inviting outdoor play space.

Ms Morris added: "It's really important to us and our children. They love being outside and using our secure, outdoor space - it's a big part of their day."

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Ofsted's report said: "Staff use opportunities that arise to encourage children to explore the natural world.

"Children enjoy growing plants and vegetables. They tend, pick and prepare lettuce to eat at snack time and vegetables to make soup."

The inspector also highlighted the "good progress" that children make in their learning, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.

The preschool's leadership was also a focal point of Ofsted's report, which said: "The manager has a good oversight of the effectiveness of the curriculum.

"She works closely with staff to assess children's progress and identify gaps in their learning.

"They instinctively challenge the most able children."

Powick Preschool was also praised by Ofsted for its strong partnerships with parents. Ofsted noted that "parents give high praise for the support they and their children receive from staff".

This year marked Powick Preschool's first Ofsted inspection in nearly six years, having been rated 'Good' by the education watchdog in October 2018.