Berrygrove Children’s Centre has been judged as 'good' following an Ofsted inspection in April.

The report found children and families are well cared for and supported by staff at the centre, in Cow Lane.

Evidence indicates families are developing healthier lifestyles as a result of the centre’s work and provision such as cooking and nutrition courses, breastfeeding support and activities like Dinky Dancers and Toddle Fit.

Ofsted inspectors said outreach staff encourage families to use centre services by visiting them in their homes and by putting on activities in different community venues around the area.

They noted that strong professional relationships with early years providers and schools enables the children’s centre to work with partners to improve children’s listening and social skills so they are better prepared to start school.  And pointed to well established links with health and social work professionals.

The report praised the effective leadership, governance and management of the centre, with the centre manager being totally committed to making sure local families enjoy healthy and fulfilled lives and overcome the challenges they face.

Centre manager, Debbi Keeley, said she felt the judgement was an accurate reflection of the hard work and commitment of the team and many partners of the centre.

The report said the centre has a clear view of its strengths and shortcomings and makes recommendations for development including further improving tracking and monitoring families’ progress and access to services, ensuring baseline data is as accurate as possible, extending data collection to include tracking the progress of adult learners and streamlining development plans.