Delight as Stepping Stones Pre-School receives a Good Ofsted report

Fabulous report ensures continued excellence for pre-school children.

Aldborough Stepping Stones Pre-School is delighted to announce that they have received a Good judgement from Ofsted Government Inspectors.

The report is a wonderful outcome for the pre-school and in particular Lydia Pryor who leads a team of 12 staff who are in turn supported by a robust and proactive management committee.

Lydia said ‘We’re thrilled that our Ofsted report is so good. Obviously, we want the children to be happy, however our overriding consideration is to encourage their self-esteem and self-confidence, so that when they start school they’re raring to go.’

Stepping Stones Pre-School is on the same site as Aldborough Primary School and the two work closely together throughout the year to ensure smooth transitions for the children.

Aldborough Primary School’s head teacher Mrs Alison Read said: “This Ofsted report is fabulous! It is the result of tons of hard work and dedication, both from the staff and the committee that underlines how Stepping Stones gives these children the best possible start.”

The Ofsted judgement included comments that Stepping Stones was a strong ‘Good’ and displayed features of ‘Outstanding’ practice. This was specifically related to the quality of teaching for communication and language, literacy and outdoor learning.

The inspector also praised the pre-school’s effectiveness of leadership and management as one of its key strengths, and also the staff’s quality of teaching regarding the use of books.

The children were found to be well behaved, learning to express their feelings and emotions, and developing their independence, friendships and learning, especially through outdoor play opportunities.

Committee chair Tina Gibbons said: “We are over the moon at the “Good” outcome. Lydia and the team do an outstanding job. They are wonderful with the children. Particularly impressive is the way in which our key person system enables children to quickly develop strong bonds with staff and helps the whole team to get to know each child’s individual learning needs.”

Stepping Stones Pre-School currently takes up to 18 children per session, for children aged 2-5 years. It is open for morning and/or afternoon sessions Monday to Friday during term time between 9:15 am to 3:30 pm. It also runs an After School Club for Aldborough Primary School every day until 5.30 pm.

Free taster sessions are available for children and parents. Children of 3+ are entitled to universal Government funding for up to 15 hours or 5 sessions per week. Stepping Stones also offers 30 hours funding for younger children from families who qualify for an early education place.

Stepping Stones can be contacted on 01263 768766 or steppingstonesaldborough@btconnect.com.