Pre-school's outdoor learning praised

A PRE-SCHOOL where children explore and develop in a "nurturing and welcoming environment" has been praised by the education watchdog.

Ofsted visited Sticky Fish Pre-School, which is based at Fishponds Baptist Church off Downend Road, in November.

Inspector Rachel Howell said the preschool, which has 39 children aged from two to four on its roll, was 'good' in all areasquality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.

The inspector highlighted the strong relationships between staff and both children and their parents, high staff morale and work to ensure all children, including those with special educational needs or disabilities, reach their potential.

She said children "develop positive attitudes to learning and make good progress", praising the pre-school's use of outdoor areas, including an obstacle course, play kitchen and a wild garden, developed with Avon Wildlife Trust, where they learned about nature.

The inspector said: "Staff are caring and provide a nurturing and welcoming environment at the preschool.

"Children receive lots of sensitive and thoughtful support to help them settle.

"Children learn to take turns, play cooperatively, and begin to manage their emotions.

"The thoughtfully set up environment motivates children to explore and develop their skills. "Children are busy and active in their exploration. They develop their physical skills well.

"Staff get down to the children's level,