STAFF and children at an Ilkley out-of-school club and nursery are celebrating after receiving glowing praise from the regulator Ofsted.

The report, drawn up after an inspection of Ashlands Out of School Club at Ashlands Primary School in Leeds Road on July 6 this year, says the provision the facility provides is "outstanding" in all areas.

The club provides nursery and out-of-school care to children aged three to 11, and employs 19 members of staff. The nursery, known as Saplings, provides care Monday to Friday during term time to three and four-year-olds, and the out-of-school club operates from 8am to 9am and from 3.30pm to 6pm during term time.

Teaching is also praised as 'outstanding', with children making rapid progress in their learning and development. Youngsters in both the nursery and after-school club were found to be extremely confident, happy and settled.

The inspection said staff provide children with "exceptionally rich and varied learning experiences through a very cleverly-planned environment. As a result, children are highly motivated and are prepared well for future moves to school."

The report added: "Staff have created an exceptionally nurturing environment, where children and their families feel valued and welcome.

"Children develop close friendships with other children and play harmoniously together."

It praises the resources available and the unrestricted access to a superb outdoor play area, as well as the focus on healthy food and good hygiene practices.

"Exceptional links with the host school and well-established information-sharing practices with other settings ensure continuity of children's care and learning," it said.

Ashlands Primary School headteacher, Andrew Soutar, said: "This excellent report reflects the brilliant start the staff in our nursery setting give to every child.

"Saplings provides child care before and after the school day with adults the children know. The children have a range of activities to join in with, and play with their friends in a safe and nurturing environment."

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