A playgroup based in Somersham has been rated outstanding by Ofsted, less than two years after it opened its doors.

First Step Playgroup, based in Parkhall Road, was given the inspectorate’s top rating across the board, winning praise for its teaching, standard of leadership, and focus on child welfare.

The playgroup shares space in the village’s scout and guide hut, and is managed by Angie Kelly.

She said: “We have a small team here but we are very reflective and we put a lot of emphasis on safeguarding, as well as our teaching. The inspection went well and we’re really pleased with the outcome.”

The Ofsted report noted that rapid progress made by pupils in their learning and development and praised the standard of teaching.

Inspector Gail Warnes said: “Staff are enthusiastic and deeply passionate in their role. They effortlessly promote equality of opportunity throughout their practice.

“This means that all children are confident to have a go, make suggestions, test out their predictions and to keep trying if they are not successful the first time in their endeavours.”

In order to continue improving, inspectors called on staff to evaluate the planned changes to the playgroup and how they might impact on the children’s continued development.