An independent preschool in Muswell Hill has received a 'good' rating at its very first inspection.

The Muswell Hill Preschool in Tetherdown Hall, Tetherdown, was visited by Ofsted inspectors on January 20 and its first report was published on February 21.

It received the education watchdog's second-highest rating of 'good' by Ofsted for the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development and for its leadership and management.

Inspector Yuko Utsumi noted that children arrive at the school "happy and excited".

"Staff provide an interesting and varied range of activities, which promote children's natural curiosity. Younger children enjoy learning with natural materials, using all their senses," the report added.

They said the support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities "is a strength of the nursery" while all pupils are taught to be independent.

Staff feel well supported and can talk openly to leaders and they have access to a wide range of training and courses for their professional development.

The report said parents speak highly of the "helpful staff team" and the 
service they provide. "Parents comment that they 'love this place' and that they feel supported and valued," it added.

The report also said safeguarding arrangements "are effective".

The preschool registered in 2020 and currently has 92 pupils aged 0 to five. Daily rates start at £90.40 for under children under two.

To obtain an 'outstanding' rating inspectors said staff should "review the organisation of the routine after lunchtime so that children know what they need to do next and engage with tasks".

Inspectors also advised extending staff's knowledge of how to enhance their interactions with children in order to promote their critical-thinking skills.

Inspectors said in the report: "Staff have worked hard to build effective partnerships with parents following the Covid-19 pandemic.

"They have reviewed their practice and successfully made changes after the recent 'reflection', and now parents are encouraged to come 
inside the building.

"For instance, parents appreciate the lending library, where children can choose a book to read with their parents. Furthermore, these new 
changes help parents to be involved in children's learning.

"For example, they come into the room at drop-off and pick-up times. Children eagerly show their parents what they have been doing during the day.

"This has a positive impact on children's self-esteem and confidence."

Manager Lorraine Rhodes said: "We're really chuffed."

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