Pre-school is county’s first ‘Outstanding’

Caterpillar Pre-School, based at Battle Baptist Church, is the first setting in East Sussex to receive an ‘Outstanding’ grade under the new Ofsted framework, which was released last September.

Inspectors visited the pre-school on January 15 and deemed the provision to be of “exceptionally high quality that meets the needs of all children extremely well.”

Manager Kelly Bunn said: “This pre-school could not have achieved this without the outstanding staff team - we couldn’t be happier!

“Together, we are extremely dedicated to working to such a high standard.

“My thanks go to my deputy Georgia, and the team: Ann, Ellen, Joy, Jo B, Jo G and Steph.”

The inspector highlighted that “a particular strength of the pre-school is a highly effective and nurturing key person system” which “as a result, children confidently make choices about their play”.

Another aspect which was highly praised was Caterpillar Crew After School Club.

Run by pre-school staff, the club provides out of school care between 3pm and 5.30pm for children aged from two to eight years.

The club allows for strong relationships between the pre-school and Battle and Langton Primary School.

The report says that this ensures “all children are well prepared for their next stage of learning.”

To find out more about the Caterpillar Pre-School and Caterpillar Crew After School Club, and to check availability, call 01424 774997.