A SOUTH Ockendon child-care setting has starting the new year with good news.

Scalliwags pre-school, based in the Village Hall in North Road, recently received the call from Ofsted confirming they would be coming in to carry out their routine inspection. As part of the Government ruling, all school and childcare settings have to be visited.

The outcome from this sees the team at Scalliwags recognised with a very strong good rating, with some feedback being outstanding.

Ofsted inspectors said: ""Children are happy and settle very quickly. Staff welcome and greet them warmly. Children feel comfortable and safe in this nurturing environment.

"Children's communication and language development are good. Staff take time to offer new language so that children hear words that help to increase their vocabulary.

"Staff support children well through various stages of transition, such as when they start at the pre-school. There is a clear procedure and strategies in place to support each child, and parents are regularly updated at every step of the process. They ensure children's individual needs are met effectively"

"Staff have good knowledge of children's learning development. They pay attention to children's interests and extend on their knowledge"

"The manager continues to evaluate her approach to enhance provision and making improvements that support children's development"

"The arrangements for safeguarding are effective. The manager and staff demonstrate a good understanding of safeguarding and child protection. They know the signs of abuse and what action to take should they have a concern about a child in their care"

Commenting on the report, the owner of Scalliwags, Julie Carter said: "This is such good news for and I'd like to personally thank my team Marion, Julie and our newest member Josh. They all continue to go above and beyond in making sure our children are looked after in a safe and trusted setting, gaining skills and confidence through in the moment learning.

"As you can imagine, we're so pleased with these comments and our rating. It reinforces our belief that after nearly 50 years of being open, we're still offering the best start in education for the children of the borough".

To find out more about Scalliwags or would like to visit and chat, call 07941 653463, email [email protected] or visit www.scalliwagspreschool.com