BY NUALA McALOON

Staff and pupils at Irvinestown Cross Community Playgroup are celebrating this week after achieving top marks in a recent inspection by the Department of Education.

The quality of pre-school education at the playgroup was described in the Report as 'excellent' while the hard work of staff, management, parents and the local community in supporting the group was also commended.

The inspection team praised the effective and consistent implementation of appropriate policies and procedures, and noted how the educational and pastoral needs were being well met.

Among the Playgroup's strengths, the Report referred to the caring and supporting atmosphere, excellent relationships between staff and children, and the contribution made by staff to meet children's personal, social and emotional development.

The inspection team went on to highlight the high standard of educational provision which provided opportunities to learn in all areas of the pre-school curriculum, particularly in language development, mathematical awareness and 'exploring through learning'.

Staff were described as highly committed, working productively to develop a planned programme to meet specific needs of children and to provide an effective link between planned programmes and the assessment of children's needs and interests.

Staff were also commended for their sensitive interaction in supporting pupils in developing good concentrated play.

The Playgroup Leader, Angela Dickson and her deputy were praised for their clear vision for a good quality pre-school education and for being highly skilled in the work with the children. Staff were described as a close working team, both hard working and supportive. The Inspection team further noted the group's work on self-evaluation, sustained self-improvement and methods for future development planning, in particular as regards the management of the children's behaviour and making effective use of the extended outdoor play area.

On reflection, Mrs Dickson said she was delighted with results and she said she was particularly pleased that the Inspection team recognised the work of the voluntary management committee, parents and support from the local community.

"I am delighted', she added, " with the Inspectors' result and I hope that the playgroup can continue to provide a high level of pre-school education for children for many years to come."