A PRE-SCHOOL near Bicester has again been ranked ‘good’ by Ofsted inspectors.

Steeple Aston Pre-School was given the rating following an inspection on April 29. Inspectors ranked the school, which has 55 pupils, as ‘good’ in all categories, meaning it gained the same rating as its inspection in November 2011.

In her report inspector Gill Little said staff provided good opportunities for children to develop their understanding of the world through a wide range of stimulating activities and experiences.

She said children received good support from staff to help them learn about sensible safety procedures and developed good social skills.

She also said the manager and staff at the pre-school evaluated their practice continuously and identified their strengths and areas for further development effectively.

The school was not ranked as outstanding because Ms Little felt staff did not always organise sessions as well as they could to provide more ways for children to develop skills through adult-led learning.

But she praised the way staff worked with local schools to help children prepare for their move into reception classes and how children’s free-play was supported effectively.

During her visit Ms Little observed activities indoors, outdoors and during a forest school session and talked to children, staff and parents.