Ballykinlar playgroup is given top marks

Ballykinlar playgroup is given top marks

29 April 2015

BALLYKINLAR Community Playgroup has been congratulated on its “outstanding” performance in a recent inspection report.

Inspectors described the children as “very well-settled, friendly and confident”, engaging well with adults and each other.

“They make creative use of the learning resources; for example, they can access and store the resources independently, and demonstrate a growing sense of responsibility for their learning environment,” the report reads.

“Most of the children play together co-operatively, taking increasing account of the needs and interests of others. During the inspection, there were many examples of sustained purposeful play.”

Inspectors commented particularly on the children’s mathematical understanding.

“There are very good opportunities for learning in all areas of the pre-school curriculum, however, the development of the children’s personal, social and emotional development, language and communication skills and their understanding of early mathematical concepts are particular strengths. 

“There is a warm welcoming ethos within the playgroup. The staff provide a bright, clean and stimulating learning environment for the children both indoors and outside. “The attractively presented and well organised playroom provides very good opportunities for learning in all aspects of the pre-school curriculum. The well developed, interesting outdoor play areas are a strength of playgroup’s provision.”

As well as commenting on the playgroup’s good links with parents, the report adds: “The quality of the arrangements for pastoral care in the playgroup is outstanding. This is evidenced through the staff’s ongoing response to the children’s interests and needs, the caring atmosphere, the promotion of safe play in the wider environment, and the excellent working relationships at all levels.

“ A high priority has been given to developing good working relationships, in which

all members of the staff feel valued and this is underpinned by good teamwork and the excellent contribution made by all of the staff. The leader is well-organised, enthusiastic and committed to the ongoing development of the playgroup in the best interests of the children and the community.”