YOUNGSTERS must play more quietly according to Ofsted inspectors who visited St Margaret's Pre School.

The education watchdog visited the Kenwin Close provision, which operates out of St Margaret's Centre in Stratton weekdays between 8.45am and 2.45pm in term time, on July 6.

Inspectors rated the pre-school good across all three areas, despite rating them outstanding at their last inspection in July 2009.

In the report published on July 23 Ofsted heaped praise on the happiness and confidence of the youngsters but said the noise levels were not conducive to learning and children needed more opportunities to develop their understanding of the world.

The report said: "Children have fewer opportunities to develop their understanding of the world, in relation to recycling and use of technological toys.

"At times, the noise level in the pre-school does not aid the concentration of children who wish to play quietly."

Inspectors particularly praised the support given to children at the pre-school and the robust recruitment and induction procedures of the staff.

The report said: "Children are happy and self-confident within the pre-school. They are well supported by a strong key-person approach and enjoy a welcoming environment. This helps them to feel at ease and encourages a sense of belonging.

"Staff enhance children's communication and language skills very well through successful conversations, effective questioning and full participation at group times.

"Children play in a safe, clean and well maintained pre-school, which supports their health and well-being. Staff encourage good behaviour and reinforce kindness through effective praise and use of reward stickers.

"Children participate in a wide range of activities, which enhances their development and supports their creativity.

" Children enjoy the freedom to play inside or outside.

"Children enter the pre-school with confidence with staff close to hand to offer warmth and a friendly atmosphere. This helps children to settle and have a sense of security. Staff provide a child-friendly environment as they set out toys and resources to ignite children's interests and promote their learning.

"Children acquire good independence, which prepares them for their future move to school.

"Partnerships with parents are strong and parents speak highly of their children's development and the commitment of staff. Staff have positive partnerships with other professionals involved in children's care and learning."

To read the findings of the report for yourself, visit http://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/inspection-reports/find-inspection-report/provider/CARE/109088.