Santa drops into playgroup (From Gazette Series)

Santa drops into playgroup

FATHER Christmas was guest of honour at Kingswood Village Playgroup's nativity on Friday, which marked the end of a successful term for the 30 pupils who attend the group.

Playgroup leaders Sue Smith and Sue Jones said it had been a good term for the group, which has received a glowing Ofsted report.

"This report, prepared after a thorough examination of the group's activities, highlights the many positive aspects provided by Kingswood Village Playgroup," said Mrs Smith.

"It recognises the hard work and achievements of not only the staff but also the children, parents and committee who support the group."

The group was judged by Ofsted to be providing very good nursery education. Quality of teaching was found to be very good and particular emphasis was placed on the good range of resources, the provision of appropriate and varied activities within a relaxed atmosphere and a positive interaction with the children.

Overall levels of the children's progress were reported as high in all areas monitored - personal, social and emotional development, language, understanding of the world and physical, creative and mathematical development. Children were found generally to be confident, co-operative and well behaved.

The report also congratulates the playgroup for the way in which it fosters a strong link with home. It found the playgroup's partnership with parents to be very good.

Parents are given an open invitation to discuss children's progress and are given information about themes and encouraged to continue them at home.

One piece of advice given by the report is for the playgroup to amend the format of final assessment reports. Playgroup staff are addressing this issue immediately.