STAFF at a Winsford preschool and after school club where children’s ‘can-do attitude contributes enormously to their progress’ are thrilled to have received a 'Good' rating from Ofsted.

The education watchdog recently published its report following an inspection of S4YC @ St Chad’s Preschool and Out of School Club on Wednesday, March 1.

Despite the manager and several staff members only being in-post six weeks, inspectors noted how the preschool set an ambitious curriculum for all children, and recognises the importance of establishing open and honest two-way communication with parents.

Nursery manager, Kayleigh Walton, says she is extremely proud all the hard work their passionate and dedicated staff have been doing was recognised by the inspector.

She added: “It feels amazing to get a ‘Good’ rating. It’s such a relief to know the inspectors could see how hard the staff have worked.

“A lot of the team and I were quite new, only being in post six weeks when we had the inspection, so was a bit nerve-racking to have one so soon after starting.

“It feels wonderful to know that all the hard work we’ve done in that time has paid off.

“Our ethos is to ensure the children are at the centre of everything we do.

"We have a big focus on building the children’s confidence and independence – really empowering them to be able to do things for themselves, and to use their initiatives to develop those skills that are going to give them a lifelong love of learning.

“That’s what we do, and I think it was recognised on the day of our inspection.

In her report, Ofsted inspector Michelle Jacques said: "Children have a thirst for learning, and their motivation greatly promoted by enthusiastic teachers and a well-organised learning space.

“Learning is optimised through well-planned activities and high-quality teaching.

“Recent changes to the staff team have been carefully managed to minimise the impact to children's learning and emotional security.

"For instance, a well-attended parent coffee morning has helped to reinforce trusting relationships between home and the setting.

“All children, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, make good progress. Notably, the special educational needs coordinator is very passionate and extremely experienced.”

S4YC @ St Chads is open Monday to Friday, from 7.30am to 6pm, during term time.

The nursery has recently extended its provision and can now take babies from three months upwards. They have places available.

St Chad's Primary School, where S4YC is based, was also rated 'Good' by Ofsted after an inspection on February 14 and 15 this year.