Good result for first Ofsted rating at Thatcham children’s centre

The West Berkshire Council-run centre – which offers information, support and services to parents and carers with children up to the age of five – was judged on access to services by young children and families, the quality of practice and services and the effectiveness of leadership, governance and management.
Inspector Graham Lee said: “The centre is a very busy and popular place. It offers a warm welcome to all and provides support, advice and training to parents at a time when they most need help, whatever their needs.
“It runs a range of high-quality activities to promote the early learning and development of young children and the skills and confidence of their parents. As a result, it is having a considerable impact on the wellbeing of families in the area.”
In order to improve to an outstanding rating, the centre was told it could increase the opportunities for parents to contribute to the running and shaping of future services.
Manager Debbie Rowe said: “We are delighted. It confirms that we are fulfilling our role and that the community is benefiting from the services we offer. We welcome the pointers for improvement and are already working to put these in place.”
The executive member for children and young people, Irene Neill (Con, Aldermaston) said: “I feel confident that this centre is well on the way to becoming outstanding. It is an extremely valuable community service and I am pleased that so many local people are able to access and benefit from the excellent range of services on offer.”