THE future of Stawley Preschool is now looking bright after the WWN reported last summer it could shut.

The committee-run preschool based at Appley Pavilion, which just weeks before had been rated ‘Outstanding’ by schools watchdog Ofsted, needed new blood to take on several roles.

Chairman Philippa Reader said several committee members were stepping down and if no-one was found to replace them the preschool would close.

But now the local primary school has stepped in to help. Philippa said: “The head teacher and governors recognise the value of the pre-school for both the school and the whole community, and have agreed to take over its governance.

“This means that staff and families will benefit from the wider support and infrastructure of the Wellington Area Rural Federation.

“The stability and professional governance that the school can give also means that strategic management and long-term planning are more achievable.”

Philippa added: “I am very excited about this change and am stepping down with the belief that we have been able to secure the future of this amazing preschool.”

The preschool runs morning and afternoon sessions for nearly 30 children. In the Ofsted inspection in May it 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.