A PRE-SCHOOL has been rated as good for the third time since a change of ownership.

Goldingham Drive Community Pre-school, in Braintree, had a change in ownership in 2010 and has consistently maintained good standards ever since.

The pre-school, which was first established in 1973, has 53 children aged between two and three on roll.

The report, published by Ofsted last Tuesday, said: "Managers and staff have a good awareness of the signs or indicators of abuse or neglect. Robust vetting and recruitment processes are followed to help ensure staff are suitable to work with children.

"Staff have a good understanding of how children learn through exploration and play. They provide plenty of opportunities for children to make choices and lead their own learning.

"Children are eager to explore their surroundings and participate in activities and games. Staff are good role models. They give clear, consistent guidance about the expectations for children's behaviour."

Inspectors said when children's achievement is below that expected they are given focused support to help them catch up.

The pre-school employs eight members of staff and of these seven hold appropriate early years qualifications at level 3 or above, including one with qualified teacher status.

Manager Julie Roberts said: "It's really good, I'm really proud of the hard work and commitment that our staff put in and the support we get from our lovely parents, I think that's reflected in the report."

To improve the pre-school could extend opportunities for children to learn in the outdoor environment, strengthen the self-evaluation process and provide more opportunities for children to practise writing and mark making