Praise for children's centre

Egerton Park Children’s Centre, which opened in April 2005, received a visit by Ofsted (Office for Standards in Education) inspectors in November 2010. It is one of a network of children’s centres across East Sussex run by the county council. During their visit, inspectors observed the centre’s work and spent time with staff, parents and partner organisations, as well as looking at case studies and business plans.

It received an overall rating of ‘good’ but Ofsted also highlighted the centre’s ‘outstanding’ work in helping families “achieve educationally and in their personal and social development”.

Other areas found to be ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted include the level at which children engage in positive behaviour and develop positive relationships as a result of attending the centre. The way the centre works with partner agencies to ensure families receive the services they need was also rated as ‘outstanding’.

Ofsted inspectors went on to state that Egerton Park is seen as an integral part of the community, with parents reporting that they feel less isolated as a result of attending the centre.

The centre’s staff were found to have a good understanding of the community and are committed to supporting children’s development and parents’ skills.

One parent spoke highly of the positive effect children’s centres has had on their family life.

“ I have benefited so much from children’s centres for nine years with all three of my children. I moved to the area and I didn’t know anyone. I have since made lots of friends and my children have all become more confident and sociable from joining in the activities”

In identifying areas for improvement at the Egerton Park centre inspectors recommended that more should be done to offer parents the chance to develop their skills by working towards accredited courses to improve access to further training and employment.

Cllr David Elkin, the county council’s lead member for learning and school effectiveness, said: “As Ofsted has recognised in its report, at the heart of Egerton Park Children’s Centre is its aim to improve outcomes for children and families in the Bexhill area.

“We have listened to local families to ensure we are providing services which meet their needs and these very pleasing Ofsted results demonstrate we are doing just that.”

The full Ofsted report can be downloaded from www.ofsted.gov.uk