A preschool has been rated good for the second time after an Ofsted inspection.

Chipping Hill Preschool, in Witham, was rated good in every area after the inspection last month.

Inspectors praised the quality of teaching and the progress children make when learning.

The report, published on July 3, said: “The manager gathers the views of parents and children to help identify improvements to the pre-school.

“Recent changes in the garden provide children with more learning experiences to develop their imagination.

“Safeguarding is effective. Staff know where to report concerns regarding children's safety.

“The quality of teaching is good. Staff know children well and plan for what they need to learn next.”

The preschool, which has 23 children on roll, caters for children aged between two and four.

A total of seven members of childcare staff are employed at the preschool and, of these, four hold early years qualifications at level three and two hold qualifications at level two.

The report added: “Staff offer children a healthy range of snacks. They encourage children to be independent, such as reminding them to wash their hands prior to eating.

“Children sit with staff and initiate conversations, helping children to develop their social skills further.

“All children, including those in receipt of funding, make good progress in their learning.

“Children demonstrate a good imagination. They put nappies and bibs on toy dolls and push them around in toy pushchairs.”

Manager Jackie Brannan said: “We are really pleased with the Ofsted report.

“We are very proud of children and staff, they have all worked hard.”