A CHILDMINDER has been ranked good by Ofsted after making improvements following an early rating of requires improvement.

Jane Philpott, of Hailey Avenue in Chipping Norton, now holds Ofsted's second highest rating after an inspection earlier this month.

In an inspection report published on Friday the school standards watchdog praised Ms Philpott for making effective improvements since her last inspection in July 2015.

She was said to have a good knowledge of how children learn and develop and how to monitor their progress effectively.

Children were deemed to be settled and enjoy their time with her.

This was said to help them develop good relationships and a growing awareness of people and communities beyond those familiar to them.

Ms Philpott looks after three children aged between one and three.

In her report inspector Amanda Perkin said: "The childminder

successfully helps children to express themselves and make choices.

"She encourages babies and toddlers to join in with squeezing the play dough and she provides an ongoing commentary as children play.

"Older children have many opportunities to further develop their activities and learning in school.

"The childminder has a kind and friendly approach.

"She helps children to develop good levels of confidence and a sense of security."

Ms Perkin said the childminder could improve even further if she encouraged all parents to contribute information about what their children were learning at home.