CHILDREN are “flourishing” at an “exceptionally welcoming” pre-school rated “outstanding” in Leigh.

Fairways Pre-School Playgroup, in The Fairway, Leigh, has been rated outstanding in all areas by Ofsted after an inspection on May 18.

Inspectors were full of praise stating, “children have a fantastic time at the pre-school”.

The report, published on last week, added: “Children flourish in this exceptionally welcoming pre-school. They form warm and affectionate relationships with the manager and staff.

“Children know the daily routines well and are extremely happy and self-assured. They behave exceptionally well.

“Staff are excellent role models and have exceedingly high expectations of all children.

“Children readily share resources, take turns and play happily and cooperatively with their friends. They learn good manners, such as waiting until all the children are sitting down at the table before they open their lunch boxes.

“Children are polite and confidently introduce themselves to visitors. Children have a fantastic time at the pre-school.”

At the time of the inspection, there were 61 children at the pre-school, all aged between two and four.

The report continued: “The manager and staff have designed a rich and varied curriculum based on the children's individual needs, experiences, and prior learning.

“The exceptionally strong partnerships with parents help to contribute to the success of the pre-school.

“Parents are extremely complimentary about the staff and the 'amazing progress' their children make. They talk enthusiastically about the wide range of experiences their children enjoy.

“Staff use all opportunities to include parents in their children's learning.”

This is the second consecutive time Fairways Pre-School has been rated outstanding by Ofsted.

Tracy Rickell, the pre-school manager, said: “We are chuffed with the judgement, especially as this is my first inspection as a manager.  

“I couldn’t be prouder of the team. We are like a little family who are passionate to enable children to thrive.

“I would personally like to thank all the staff, especially my deputy Sam for all the extra support, along with the committee and all our families for their input in making this pre-school a special one.

“We couldn’t have done it without all the hard work from every single one of you.”