A nursery has been downgraded by Ofsted from "outstanding" to "inadequate" by Ofsted in its latest report. 

Inspectors were unimpressed by the curriculum, staff interactions with children and ineffective safeguarding at The Lenches Pre-School on Main Street at Evesham.

Ofsted found that the premises were not secure, risk assessments are not always implemented effectively and that lead practitioners for safeguarding are not confident in providing the necessary support.

However, inspectors did find the vetting of staff to be robust and the nursery's hygiene to be sound. 

Ofsted inspectors were unhappy with the pre-school's education quality 

Inspectors added: "Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the provider has been dealing with management and staffing changes and has struggled to fill vacant positions.

"Due to this, the provider has failed to ensure there is a suitable manager in place and available to routinely take charge of the setting as required.

"This is a breach of their legal responsibilities outlined in the 'Statutory framework for the early years foundation stage.'"

However inspectors did find that children are "happy and relatively settled".

The committee chairperson at The Lenches Pre-school, Paula Amer, said: "Our Ofsted Report was a devastating blow for us as a setting. 

"Like many settings over the last few years with covid it has been a challenge, and which has seen many small settings close.   

"We are, however, moving forward with clear direction and changes have already been implemented with the support of the local authority, staff, committee parents and community.   

"We were pleased that the Inspector commented on the happiness and confidence of the children. 

"This is key and something which we will continue to build on."

Jo Beasley, parent of a child at the pre-school, added: "Having sent both of my children to the preschool over the last few years it was a shock to see the Ofsted result.

"The preschool is a fantastic, family friendly setting and both of my children thrived, gained confidence and loved their time there.

"I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the preschool to anyone considering joining the setting."