A pre-school previously slated by Ofsted has righted the ship after inspectors found “passionate” staff had made great strides in safeguarding and teaching.

Willesborough Baptist Pre-school in Ashford had been scored as “inadequate” in January as officials discovered toddlers left wandering unattended and said they were at risk of choking.

But five months later, the centre has been upgraded to a “good” rating with praise given for staff’s “calm and patient” approach.

“Significant progress has been made since the last inspection,” officials said.

“Managers recognise the journey they have been on and the challenges they have faced, and they prioritise support and training for staff.

“Staff are calm and patient in their approach and they focus on developing children's independence well, staff work hard - they are passionate and proactive.”

The pre-school is run as a charity and describes itself as having "strong links and support" from Willesborough Baptist Church in Hythe Road.

The facility teaches about three-dozen children aged two to four.

“Staff work hard - they are passionate and proactive...”

Following the last inspection, Ofsted ordered management to improve training for staff to ensure they consistently provide good-quality teaching and have a better understanding of how to support children with SEND.

But in the new report published earlier this month, the schools’ watchdog specifically mentions that children with special needs are being cared for effectively.

“Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities are well supported,” penned officers.

“Staff ensure that they put in place a range of initiatives to ensure all children make good progress.

“For example, children take part in nurture groups to support their language and listening skills. Staff focus on developing children's independence well.”

Short of granting a rating of “outstanding” however, inspectors did highlight areas for improvement.

“To further improve the quality of the early years provision, the provider should build staff's confidence in supporting all children to remain purposefully engaged during small-group activity time.”

Willesborough Baptist Preschool was asked for comment by KentOnline.