ipswich: A pre-school in Ipswich is today celebrating after being rated among the best providers of childcare in the country, according to an inspection report.

St Mary’s Pre-school in Woodbridge Road has been rated “outstanding” by education regulator Ofsted, just weeks after it was raided by thieves last month.

With a �100,000 programme to improve facilities at the playgroup, which meets at St Mary’s Church Hall, the inspectors recognised the quality of the refurbishments, as well as praising the high standard of childcare.

Rebecca Allen, chair of the pre-school, said: “We were all so pleased when we heard the news. ‘Outstanding’ is a fantastic achievement and puts us in the top 2 per cent of providers nationally.”

Vanessa Plampin, pre-school playleader, added: “We’re so proud of this achievement and while we are taking time out to celebrate today, tomorrow we will be back at work determined to continue the high standards that we are known for and that the children deserve.”

During the refurbishment an interactive garden and outdoor play area were added and a complete new kitchen was installed.

To find out more about the pre-school and how to join, visit www.stmarys-preschool-ipswich.org.uk or call 01473 807252.

n Tell us about your nursery, playgroup or school’s successes. Call the newsdesk on 01473 324788 or e-mail starnews@eveningstar.co.uk.