BURBAGE Pre-school provides a happy and secure environment, according to Ofsted inspectors.

Their latest report says children are making good progress in most subjects, although the pre-school could have a better maths programme.

The inspection of the pre-school, which meets in the Scout Hut in East Sands, took place over two days in September.

The pre school is planning to re-locate to the village school site also in East Sands.However, inspector Susan Meekings found the current premises provided a happy and secure environment which she said contributed to the good progress the children are making.

Her report stated: "Children's personal, social and emotional development is very good, supported effectively by the staff's clear and realistic expectations and consistent management."

The inspector said parents' involvement in the work of the school provided a valuable contribution to its success.

The only other criticism voiced in the report was over the children's recognition of shapes, sounds and names of the letters of the alphabet.

Pre-school chairman Jan Appleton said the points raised by the inspector were being addressed.

"We attach great importance to the personal, social and emotional development of the children, which results in high standards of behaviour, positive relationships and confidence, all of which are important as they go up to school," she said.