THE majority of pre-schools in the Worcestershire area have fared well in Ofsted inspections, a new report reveals.

Figures released by the government watchdog showed the organisation inspected 83 pre-schools, childminders and other childcare bodies between November 2013 and March 2014.

Of these, about four per cent were rated ‘outstanding’ in how well they met the needs of children. Sixty per cent were rated ‘good’ in this area and 19 per cent were judged to be satisfactory or in need of improvement.

Only two — a pre-school in Kidderminster and an independent childminder somewhere in the county — were judged to be inadequate.

About four per cent were rated ‘outstanding’ in terms of how they met quality standards. A further 57 per cent were branded ‘good’ and 20 per cent were judged to be satisfactory or in need of improvement.

Inadequate ratings were handed down in four cases, including Broadheath CE Primary Pre-School in Lower Broadheath.

The pre-school was also one of four judged unsatisfactory both in their contribution to the wellbeing of children who attended the school and in quality of leadership.

Ofsted is working with staff to develop an improvement programme.

Lickhill Pre-School in Stourport was one of only four providers rated ‘outstanding’ for their contribution to the wellbeing of children.

About 57 per cent were branded ‘good’ in this category, and 19 per cent ‘satisfactory’ or in need of improvement.

Ratings were not provided in about 14 per cent of cases.

Ofsted early years director Nick Hudson said 70 per cent of early years providers in the country were registered good or better.

“I want to praise the hard work, professionalism and dedication of those early years staff who are providing a safe environment in which children can develop,” he said.

“They are helping to make sure that thousands of young children will be ready to learn when they begin their school journey.”

Inspection criteria have become tougher in recent years, and Mr Hudson said: “Early years providers who have been judged to be outstanding or good since we raised the bar should see it as a quality mark.”

He added the organisation was working closely with providers where improvement may was needed.

Much of the data — mostly relating to independent childminders who often work from their own homes — is redacted for data protection reasons.

To view all the data visit www.ofsted.gov.uk.