A NORTH Craven nursery received a special present for its first birthday this week - a favourable Ofsted report.

Scallywags Nursery, based in the community house at Settle High School, underwent a nursery education inspection towards the end of January.

This week, the first anniversary of the nursery being based at Settle High School, proprietor Paula Clay was delighted to receive a good report from the Government's nursery inspector.

She told the Herald: "It has been a good first year, and we are very pleased that we are on the right track. I am very happy."

To celebrate both events, Scallywags held a week-long party, so children attending on different days could take part.

Ofsted Inspector Valerie Railton reported: "Scallywags provides a happy, caring environment in which most children are likely to achieve the desirable learning outcomes in all six areas of learning by the age of five.

"Personal and social development and creative development are good.

"Language and literacy, mathematics, knowledge and understanding of the world and physical development are satisfactory, but have minor weaknesses which relate to the lack of good written plans."

The report added: "The children's behaviour is good and they develop independence through being given the opportunity to select activities.

"Taken overall, the quality and standards of the educational provision are acceptable."

There was also praise for the staff: "Teaching is satisfactory and is likely to promote the desirable outcomes. The staff interact well with the children, explaining clearly what is expected. The grouping of children is effective.

"The children are not formally assessed. The record keeping system now in place must be developed to provide a clearer picture of the children's attainment. Staff are aware of the needs of all children.

"The accommodaton is used effectively to promote all the six areas of learning. There is a good range of resources, but no indoor climbing and balancing equipment."

The report added that parents and carers had good relationships with staff, felt well informed about their children's progress and were able to join in with activities if they wished.

As with all Ofsted reports, there were key issues for action, and Scallywags must draw up an action plan within 40 days to show how these will be addressed.

Detailed plans should be drawn up to cover all areas of learning, with emphasis on language, literacy and mathematics.

The inspector would also like to see plans for a range of activities to help children to increase their skills in handling tools, and more chances for the development of large physical play on a regular basis.

There should also be more opportunities for children to question why things happen, read the report.

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