A Powys playgroup is celebrating after receiving a glowing inspection report which was rated “excellent” – the highest possible rating – in all areas.
Llanidloes-based Crocodocodile Playgroup, or ‘Crocs’ as it’s affectionately known, celebrated its 30th anniversary in September this year, just days before the surprise inspection by Care Inspectorate Wales.
Crocodocodile Playgroup committee chairperson Vicki Jones said: “This latest inspection confirms what we as a community already knew; that the staff provide an exceptional start for our youngest learners. The setting and staff are setting bar incredibly high.”
The inspection found that the well-established pre-school setting that has served the town for many years was exceptional, innovative or highly effective in the four areas of wellbeing, care and development, environment, and leadership and management.
The playgroup which is located next door to Llanidloes Primary School is supported by play leader Emma Macken and her colleagues Sophie Lloyd and Kelly Hawkins.
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The inspection report highlighted how children are “curious learners” and “thriving and feel extremely happy and secure” at the playgroup which was described as a “delightful and rich” environment for play and learning.
Staff were recognised as providing a “nurturing and caring environment” and ‘responsive care’, in a space that is “a rich environment for play and learning”.
The staff were also commended for having a “strong vision for the future” which creates a “very positive ethos”.
The inspector noted that the people running the playgroup are “passionate in ensuring they offer a very high standard of care to the children” and “exceed the national minimum standards”.
Vicky, chairperson, added: “As the committee who supports the exceptional work of our staff, we could not be prouder of them and feel that the report accurately reflects the dedication of our team when it states that staff show ‘interest, pleasure and care in all that they do’.
“It is a pleasure to share such a glowing report with our local community.”
Play leader Emma Macken said she was “totally and utterly so happy and proud” of the inspection result.
“This was an unplanned inspection, and we are beyond happy to have our hard work and efforts recognised,” she said.
“We are so grateful to our committee for their amazing support and so pleased for our parents and children to be able to join in and celebrate this amazing achievement with us.”
Llanidloes Town Council shared their hearty congratulations, saying that the inspection “clearly highlighting what a superb start they offer our youngest citizens at the start of their journey.
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