A CHILDCARE centre in Worcester has been marked as outstanding by Ofsted inspectors.

The Brighter Futures before and after-school and holiday club at Cherry Orchard Primary School, Timberdine Close, are celebrating after being given the highest possible praise from government inspectors.

In the report, inspector Valerie Fane said: “Children have a wonderful time at this vibrant out-of-school club and enjoy a stimulating and fun range of activities that supports their learning and development extremely well.

“They take ownership of their club because staff involve them fully in planning activities and setting up behaviour rules.

“Children have a wonderful time at the club. They are polite and considerate and helpful to one another.”

Nicola Turrell, director of Brighter Futures, said: “It is rare for Ofsted to give an outstanding award for early years provision.

“Even more remarkably, this is the second such judgement that has been given to Brighter Futures. In January we were awarded an outstanding rating following an Ofsted inspection of our before and after-school club and holiday club at Malvern Wells Primary School.”

She said she wanted to praise the team, which had worked very hard.

“We invest a great deal of time and energy in ensuring staff uphold the very highest standards of care and Ofsted’s judgements reflect the hard work and dedication of the Brighter Futures staff in ensuring children are happy, safe and purposefully engaged in all we have to offer,”

she said.

Brighter Futures is currently open for children throughout Worcester who wish to take part in their Easter holiday club and summer holiday provision and can be contacted on 079193 57895.

THE OFSTED REPORT

WHAT THE INSPECTORS SAID

● Overall effectiveness: Grade 1 – Outstanding ● Leadership and Management: Grade 1 – Outstanding ● Quality and standards: Grade 1 – Outstanding

WHAT THE SCHOOL DOES WELL

● Children benefit greatly from the high ratio of staff working with them ● All staff have a comprehensive induction programme that includes training in key areas ● Children benefit from excellent continuity of care in almost all respects because staff work in very close partnership with parents, outside agencies and with staff of the feeder primary school.

WHAT COULD BE IMPROVED

● Extend the opportunities for partnership working where children receive care and education in more than one setting.

PICTURE CAPTION: PRAISE: THE OFSTED REPORT Celebrating a positive Ofsted report are Brighter Futures deputy manager with, from left, Evie Privitera, Alexander James and Millie Eastbury, who attend its afterschool club.

Picture by Nick Toogood.

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