A LOCAL pre-school has been rated outstanding in all areas.

Broomely Pre School, in Stocksfield, welcomed the news from governing body Ofsted during lockdown.

Chairwoman Vanessa Hucklesby said: “We are absolutely delighted and it is lovely to spread such great news during such uncertain and challenging times.”

The inspection took place on February 28 before lockdown measures were implemented across the country.

And Vanessa explained that owing to the closure of schools and early years settings, the pre-school did not expect to receive their inspection result.

But, the report was issued early to the delight of staff, committee members, parents and guardians.

“The feedback was lovely. The inspector really picked up on how good the staff are and the individual relationships they have with the children”, said Vanessa.

The day-care centre was last reviewed over three years ago, when it was also rated as outstanding.

Vanessa, who has been acting chair for over six years, puts this down to the hard work and dedication of the team.

“Staff do this job because they are passionate about children. They are always on the ball with everything”, she said.

The pre-school has seven members of staff and caters for up to 24 children, aged between three and four-years-old.

Mrs Hucklesby added: “The team work so well together, they’re friends as well as colleagues, and are always looking out for each other, the children, and their families. I am so proud of them.”

Ofsted rated all aspects of the setting to be outstanding, including quality of education and leadership and management.

The report said: “Staff know the children individually extremely well and provide outstanding support for their learning and development. The children also benefit from a broad range of exciting and highly stimulating activities and experiences.”

Broomley Pre-School is a registered charity and operates out of Broomley First School.

While closed, the head teacher has been posting handmade rainbow cards to each child on the school’s roll.

The pre-school is hoping to re-open in late June, following the phased re-opening of the wider school setting on June 1, but will monitor the situation.

Vanessa said: “This would have been a transitional term and the children aren’t going to have that in some ways. At that age, it is nicer to remember pre-school as was.”