A WINSCOMBE nursery has been praised by Ofsted for helping children make 'good progress' in their development.

The Rainbow Montessori Nursery School, which operates from The Lynch Chapel, was visited by Ofsted on October 19.

The nursery setting was celebrated for encouraging children to gain a sense of independence, as well as assisting those who may need additional help.

The Ofsted report reads: "Children come confidently into the setting and quickly settle to play.

"The manager is clear about what she wants children to learn and ensures that staff know this too. The curriculum is broad, with a focus on developing children's independence, respect for others, and ability to think critically.

"Children gain the skills they need in readiness for school. They do things for themselves and independently select activities that interest them. Staff provide gentle support that helps to engage the children.

"Children become absorbed in the activities they have chosen, showing enthusiasm and a keenness to learn. Staff quickly identify when children need additional support.

"They work in partnership with parents and other professionals to plan the support for these children and to ensure that the provision meets the needs of children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

"The curriculum is ambitious for children of all abilities, and children make good progress in their development. There are effective partnerships with parents. Parents can stay for a short while to play with their children, and their children enthusiastically show them their favourite activities.

"This enhances parents' understanding of how their children are learning and gives new ideas for supporting learning at home. Parents are highly complimentary of staff and the communication that they receive about their child's progress."

Managers were praised for reviewing the nursery's safeguarding policies to make sure they work effectively: "Managers regularly review their safeguarding practice and attend meetings to ensure that their knowledge remains current.

"They make sure that staff are confident in the processes to follow within the setting, and in their understanding of safeguarding. Staff are confident in the signs that may indicate a child is at risk of harm."

To improve, it was noted that staff need to ensure they know the next steps for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, so that they can provide consistent support.