PRAISE has been heaped on a village playgroup in Wrexham following a visit by inspectors.

Officials from the Welsh education watchdog Estyn carried out an assessment of Holt Under 5’s Playgroup during June.

They said most children who attend the day care facility based at Holt Community Primary School make good progress, particularly in developing their social and problem-solving skills.

They also commended staff for fulfilling their responsibilities in keeping youngsters safe and healthy.

All six areas scrutinised by the inspectors were found to be good and no compliance issues were identified during their visit.

In their report, they said: “The setting provides an effective range of learning experiences indoors and outdoors that engage nearly all children successfully.

“Practitioners support children to develop their personal and social skills well.

“Provision to support children’s literacy skills is effective.

“This results in a majority of children showing a high level of interest in books and stories.

“Many practitioners develop children’s problem-solving skills successfully through stimulating and exciting planned activities.”

They added that the playgroup’s leaders share a clear vision to provide a positive learning environment.

The report also makes a small number of recommendations for improvement.

Suggestions include improving children’s physical skills, particularly when using large equipment, and ensuring that expectations of behaviour are consistent

The report states: “A majority of children negotiate space effectively when running and balancing as they play in the outdoor area.

“However, a minority lack confidence when taking part in large-scale physical activities, and skills such as throwing, and balancing are underdeveloped.”

The inspectors also said that the playgroup’s policy on the use of personal mobile phones by staff should be made clear.

Managers will now be required to draw up an action plan to address the recommendations.