A nursery and childcare centre in Bacup has retained its good Ofsted rating following an inspection in May.

Inspectors rated Maden Early Years and Childcare Centre, at the Maden Centre on Rochdale Road, as ‘good’ when they visited in May.

It received a ‘good’ rating in all areas, including in quality of education and management.

According to the report, children to the centre happy and are keen to meet their friends.

The inspector said: “They interact well with their peers and familiar adults, demonstrating a strong keyperson system.

“Children are taught to be sensitive to others' needs. Emphasis is placed on inclusion throughout.

“Children happily share their thoughts and experiences through conversation and interaction.”

The curriculum ensures children's knowledge is built upon and prepares children well for transitions. Children with special educational needs, or disabilities, are given support.

The report said: “The curriculum ensures children's knowledge is built upon and prepares children well for transitions.

“Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are soon identified and links are formed with parents and outside agencies.

“As a result, children are given targeted support. Communication and language activities are available for parents to access at home. Children then share their experiences using photos and discussions.”

According to the report, leaders recognise the need for change and improvement where necessary.

For example, they have recently relocated the baby provision to an area that is bigger and more suitable to the babies' needs. 

Leaders are said to support staff well.

The report says: “The manager believes in high levels of staff wellbeing, offering support when needed.

"Staff regard the leaders and managers highly. As a result, children are supported by well-trained, knowledgeable staff.”

The report has also highlighted areas where the nursery and centre can improve. Outdoor activites are said to lack focus and more could be done to help children to develop independence.

The report says: “Overall, the curriculum is well planned and children access a range of activities and learning opportunities.

“However, activities outdoors can lack focus and are not as well thought out. At times, children run round and do not settle.

“This means children are not getting as much focused learning as indoors.

“In each room staff talk about the focus for promoting independence for all children.

“Children fill their own water bottles and put their own shoes on but practitioners serve children their meals and pour drinks for them.

“In addition, they provide tissue stations but the children's noses are wiped for them by the staff in the room. This does not consistently support children to develop their independence.”