'Outstanding' Ofsted grade for East Sussex village pre-school

The Nursery Unit at Stone Cross Independent Pre-School, in Adur Drive, received the highest grade – in all areas – following its latest inspection.

Inspectors found that ‘children flourish’ at the nursery which is ‘highly va lued’ by families and the local community.

The report states: “Children arrive eager and full of energy to start their d ay.

"The exceptionally knowledgeable manager and her skilled staff team pride themselves on knowing each child incredibly well. They use this information to deliver a well-sequenced and exciting curriculum that ignites children's thirst for learning.

"Staff work tirelessly to ensure that children with developmental delays make outstanding progress. They work closely with families and external professionals to continuously work on specific strategies and champion children to do their very best.

"Parents hold the pre-school in high regard. They comment that staff create a real sense of community for the children and their families.

“Children demonstrate that they make significant progress in their learning and development. They show high levels of engagement and concentration as they recall what they remember from poems and stories.

“Staff champion children and offer encouragement for them to have opportunities to talk about their ideas.”

The inspector added that staff ‘truly value the uniqueness of every child who attends’ and that there is an ‘open and positive culture around safeguarding that puts children's interests first’.

Sharon Britton, supervisor at the pre-school, said: “The Outstanding rating is something that my team and I have worked hard for over many years and we are so proud to have finally achieved it.

"We must thank all our past and present parents and children for all their continued support.”