The University of Cumbria Pre-School Centre in Lancaster has been rated as outstanding in its latest Ofsted inspection.

The report stated "The very experienced and skilled staff group have an excellent knowledge of each individual child’s needs and interests and they make sure that they successfully promote children’s welfare and learning to an excellent standard."  Also praised were the "extremely strong" leadership and management and the "highly stimulating and vibrant environment" which the Pre-School provides for the children to enjoy learning thorough play. 

The enthusiasm and challenging nature of the teaching and the way it motivates the children to think critically and creatively were singled out for praise, as was the "exceptional organisation of the educational programmes."  The Pre-School’s commitment to equality and diversity and the support it provides for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities were also rated as outstanding.

Philippa Perks, Pre-School Centre Manager, said:

"I’m very pleased with the results of our latest Ofsted report and it’s a testament to the hard work or our staff that we have been rated so highly."

Ofsted is the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills.  It regulates and inspects childcare and children’s social care to achieve excellence in the care of children and young people, and in education and skills for learners of all ages.

For more information about the Pre-School Centre, use our information request form or call 01524 526578.

The University of Cumbria Pre-School Centre on the Lancaster Campus has had an eventful few months, with the announcement of new funding and the opening of new facilities.  The Pre-School received £20,000 from Lancashire County Council to fund improvements to its outdoor play area. The funding has been awarded as part of the Sure Start programme.
Read the Initial Proposal for Funding for Outdoor Play Provision [PDF]

As part of a separate development, the Pre School unveiled a new outdoor shelter in March, giving the children more opportunities to play outside.  The shelter came from the Centre’s Development plan, which detailed the need to update the outdoor facilities. See the report below.

In May, a story-tellers week was organised where staff and guests read stories to the children and get them involved in fun activities throughout the week, including dressing up as their favourite characters.  The aim of the programme was to help develop communication, language and literacy skills, provide an opportunity to enhance partnership with parents and create valuable links with the local community as the children develop a sense of belonging.

Local Firm Help Children's Nursery

Volker Stevin's Western Office came to the aid of a local children's nursery in January 2009. The parents and friends group at the nursery had bought a large new outdoor shelter and needed someone to erect it!

Volker Stevin were delighted to offer their skills and expertise; and the shelter was erected by Gareth Gregory and Jimmy Hunt in no time, despite having very little working room and the bitterly cold seasonal weather.

Staff and children at the University of Cumbria Pre-School Centre (which include children from staff in the Western Office) are delighted with the new shelter and offer their heartfelt thanks. The children can now enjoy some outdoor play whatever the weather!

Thanks to the warm-hearted Western Office for their assistance.

Ruth Harris
!3 January 09
Article for Volker Stevin News and Local Newspaper