STAFF at a pre-school described as “inadequate” just a few months ago have been praised for turning it around so soon.

Ofsted inspectors visited Oxenhope Under-Fives Pre-School this spring, and in May released a highly critical report into the nursery, which is based at the village hall.

Among the criticisms levelled at the school were that quality of teaching was inadequate and the committee running the school had breached legal requirements by failing to let Ofsted know of changes in membership. It also raised concerns about hygiene in the centre.

But a follow-up visit left inspectors so impressed the school experienced the rare achievement of shooting up two rating levels, from inadequate to good in just five months.

The report, released last week, said: “Since the last inspection, the manager and staff have shown a clear determination to improve the pre-school for children and parents.

“The quality of teaching is good. Staff have a sound knowledge of how to effectively safeguard children.

“Staff attend regular meetings, where they discuss new targets and ideas for improvement to drive the practice forward. Children are very happy and settled.”

The school has about 30 children on its roll, and is run by a committee.

Committee treasurer, Tony Neary, said they were quick to take on board criticisms made by Ofsted and improve problems highlighted as soon as possible.

He added: “We’re really pleased we have managed to turn things around.

“When the last report came out, we said we would take it seriously and get the pre-school back to where it should be.

“There were some issues with the community centre when the inspectors first came, but it has been completely refurbished and cleaned now, which has really helped. All our staff are now well qualified.”