A BASINGSTOKE playgroup which provides play and leisure schemes for disabled children has been given a “good” rating from Ofsted after it was told it “requires improvement” last year.

Challengers, which is based at Saxon Wood School, in Barron Place, Rooksdown, received a “requires improvement” rating from education watchdog Ofsted in February 2014 but has now been given a “good” rating following an inspection on April 8.

The playgroup, which has 35 four to eight-year-olds on roll, was graded as good in all categories – effectiveness of leadership, contribution of provision to the wellbeing of children and how well the provision meets the needs of children.

The report said: “Children thoroughly enjoy their time because they have the freedom to join in with a variety of interesting activities. Staff make good use of information from parents, other settings children attend and their own observations. This helps them plan activities based on children’s interests and developmental needs.”

It added: “They [the staff] create a safe environment and supervise children well, while allowing them freedom to choose and explore.”

The report goes on to praise staff at the playgroup, adding: “Children form secure relationships with the friendly and welcoming staff, especially those who work full-time at the scheme.

“Staff meet daily to discuss the children and update their information.

This enables them to meet children’s individual needs very well. Staff support children in gaining valuable skills that will help them in the next stage of their learning.”

Inspector Rachel Adams told the playgroup’s staff various areas that could be improved.

This includes enhancing the children’s outdoor play by ensuring they have regular access to natural materials such as sand, to encourage their creativity and problem-solving skills.

This would help Challengers work towards an “outstanding” rating at its next inspection.

Laura Sercombe, chief executive of Challengers, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive such positive feedback from our regulators because it gives an objective validation that all the hard work the teams have been doing to make the schemes the very best that they can be is recognised.

“They saw us at our busiest, full of lots of happy children and energised staff – offering play for local disabled children and making a real difference for them and their family.”