Celebrations at 'outstanding' Shropshire pre-school nursery

Little Acorns Pre-school, of Rushbury, near Church Stretton, was assessed by inspectors in March and scored an outstanding rating in every category.

It was inspected six years ago and scored an outstanding rating then and manager Elaine Ockenden said she was delighted.

She said: "We are very pleased to have retain our outstanding rating across the board under the new and tougher Ofsted inspection regime. We would like to thank the children, parents and carers, staff and the committee members for all their support and effort."

Mrs Ockenden, who lives in Marshbrook, joined Little Acorns 13 years ago and has risen from assistant to manager, including taking a degree in early years leadership.

She said: "One of our key strengths are the strong links we have with the local community, primary school and families.

"We not only want to maintain our high standards but improve them and are keen to stay up to date and embrace new ideas."

Little Acorns is based within Rushbury CE Primary School and has the use of the school's playground and extensive field including a beautiful wildlife area which is used for Forest School. The Ofsted inspector, Scott Oliver Thomas, praised the pre-school noting that "all children make excellent progress from their starting points" and are "exceedingly well prepared for school".

It was noted that transition into the nursery and on to school is smooth, and Mr Thomas also commended Little Acorns on its "highly stimulating and organised environment" and the excellent behaviour of the children.

Chair of the committee that runs the school, Ceri Wilson, said: "I am thrilled that the commitment and dedication of all those involved in Little Acorns has been justly rewarded. Children who attend Little Acorns get the best possible care and education – a great start in life"