A PRE-SCHOOL which has lost its ‘outstanding’ Ofsted rating has been issued with a legal notice from the education watchdog following a safeguarding concern.

Noah’s Ark Pre-School, in Pack Lane, Kempshott, was graded as ‘requires improvement’ last month following an inspection, having previously been rated as ‘outstanding.’

The watchdog also took compliance action after the pre-school notified it of a safeguarding concern on June 10, resulting in the issuing of a welfare requirement notice instructing Noah’s Ark to take action. This included ensuring the premises is secure and fit for purpose and preventing unauthorised people from entering the premises.

They also included improving safeguarding practices to ensure any concerns about a child are notified to agencies without delay; and ensuring all staff have up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding issues.

The inspection revealed staff are not supported by the manager and do not share information with each other about children’s learning needs. “As a result, children do not receive consistent teaching support from staff, which hinders them from making the progress they are capable of.” It added: “Staff do not explain to children about the importance of eating healthy food, such as during mealtimes, to help them learn what constitutes a healthy diet.” Inspector Tracy Bartholomew found sometimes children throw and snatch toys, push and shout at each other.

She added: “At times, staff’s teaching does not challenge children’s learning sufficiently, especially at the beginning of the day when children arrive, and noise levels are extremely high.”

However, she did note various strengths, including: “Overall, children are happy, enjoy the activities on offer and enjoy some purposeful interactions and group times with staff.”

The report said: “Partnerships with parents are strong.”

The nursery confirmed a safeguarding concern to Ofsted – reflecting standard practice that all nursery and school settings must report any concerns of this nature immediately. A spokesman said: “The subsequent visit by an inspector, and full review identified a number of areas where we needed to make improvements – these were unrelated to the safeguarding incident reported.

“I am pleased inspectors noted overall children are happy and parents comment our staff are friendly, approachable and they feel their children are safe. The full inspection also assessed our safeguarding procedures are effective.”