Ofsted: Harebreaks Preschool goes from 'inadequate to 'good'

Harebreaks Preschool, based at The Methodist Church in North Watford, was given a lengthy list of required improvements in a report published last June.

After another inspection on December 9, it appears to have turned things around as it was praised and found ‘good’ in all categories, the second highest grade.

The Scroll Church (Image: Google Street View)

Preschool leader Karen Wright said: “We are incredibly proud to have been graded good again.

“We have worked really hard as team to implement their recommendations and more.

“We are very appreciative for the support of our past and current parents, whose words uplifted us, lessened the devastation we felt, and made us more determined to prove we are better than we were painted in the first place.”

Inspectors said that children at the pre-school arrive happily, develop independence, show enthusiasm and concentrate.

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They added: “Since the last inspection, the manager and staff have received support and worked cooperatively with the local authority to develop their knowledge.

“For example, they have reviewed their policy on managing behaviour. All staff apply this consistently.”

At the previous inspection it was found that “significant weaknesses in leadership and management” negatively impacted children’s welfare.

When Ofsted spoke with parents at Harebreaks, they “spoke highly of their children’s experience” saying they make progress and develop confidence.

“Staff are kind, caring and attentive to the children's needs,” the inspectors added.

“These positive interactions help children to form secure attachments and support their emotional well-being well.

Harebreaks, which provides sessional day care, looks after two to four-year-olds on weekdays and had eight kids on its roll during the inspection, down from 18 at the last inspection.

Safeguarding arrangements were found to be effective during the December visit.

Activities were well planned, with strong support for students with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those who speak English as an additional language.

A school spokesperson previously said it was “devasted” after the last inspection, believing the grading was "very unjust", adding they looked forward to being reinspected.