A Watford preschool told it 'requires improvement' by Ofsted has now been rated 'good' in all categories in its latest inspection.

Precious Play Days, in Durban Road East, was re-inspected after the Ofsted visit in June last year identified several areas that needed to be improved.

In the new report, the preschool was found to be 'good' - the second highest rating - in having appropriate early years provision to meet the needs of the range of children who attend, its contribution to the children's well being and the effectiveness of its managers and leadership.

In the report, the government inspector said: "Staff have a secure understanding of how children learn best. They plan and create a welcoming, safe and interesting learning environment both indoors and outdoors.

"Children are free to create their own play from accessible resources. This is balanced by specific planned activities, which adds structure to children's learning.

"The manager and staff have secure knowledge of how to safeguard children.

"The positive environment effectively promotes children's sense of well-being. Staff skilfully settle in new children, developing close relationships with key persons. Children develop confidence and are emotionally ready for the next stage in their learning."

The report continued: "Staff are always on hand to extend children's learning, taking every opportunity to promote their curiosity. Staff interact skilfully with children to question and challenge their thinking."

Inspectors said further improvements would be made if the preschool could ensure the system used to assess and monitor children's development clearly showed all children's' starting points, meaning accurate weekly information would be available of all children's progress.

And also if the preschool fully completed daily risk assessments of the premises to ensure all minor hazards are identified.

Lianne Maltman, owner of Precious Play Days, said management at the preschool had worked hard to improve.

She said: "We are delighted to be judged ‘good’ by Ofsted.

"The manager, Mehnaz Malik, and her team work incredibly hard to offer the children the best start in life.

"This preschool, which is based at the Scout Hut, offers families two-year-funded places.

"Parents can book an appointment to check their eligibility or they can come along to our open day on Wednesday, July 8."