THE future of Stawley Preschool is hanging in the balance just weeks after it received an ‘Outstanding’ rating from schools watchdog Ofsted.

The pre-school for under-fives is based at Appley Pavilion and runs morning and afternoon sessions for close to 30 children. But the committee-run pre-school needs new blood to take on a number of roles otherwise it could shut.

Chairman Philippa Reader said: “Each year we have been able to elect a number of parents onto the committee, although this is becoming an increasingly difficult task. This year a number of committee members will be stepping down and if we are unable to fill the positions, the pre-school will be forced to close.”

She added that a chairman was needed to oversee the running of the pre-school by liaising with staff and committee; a treasurer to manage the budget and oversee funding; a rep to liaise between pre-school and pavilion committees; maintenance to keep the outside play area in good order and functioning safely; and marketing to develop a marketing strategy.

In the Ofsted inspection in May Stawley Preschool received the highest rating in all four areas covered in the report –­ effectiveness of leadership and management; quality of teaching, learning and assessment; personal development, behaviour and welfare; and outcomes for children.

Philippa told the WWN: “The support is there and the staff are very good, but at

the moment it’s not looking particularly hopeful.”

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