A CHILDCARE provider previously rated 'outstanding' has now been told it needs improvement.

Grandpont Daycare in South Oxford, which runs at Grandpont Nursery School, has been rated 'requires improvement' by Ofsted following inspection last month.

The report, released yesterday, said: "There is a busy and jolly feel to the provision. Children are keen to play and learn.

"However, very young children, although not distressed in any way, sometimes appear a little lost in this environment.

"They spend too much of their time walking about without real purpose."

Staff were described as 'caring and kind' role models and were said to show 'strong commitment to keeping children safe'.

Children were seen 'happily playing outside in the rain, laughing as they splash in puddles'.

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Most of the report was positive, despite the rating of 'requires improvement' in all four areas assessed.

Ofsted said: "Parents speak very highly of the staff. They find staff approachable and helpful.

"They report that their children love attending and sometimes are sad on the days they cannot."

The daycare in Whitehouse Road had previously been rated 'outstanding' in 2015, which is Ofsted's top rating.

The regulator brought in a new inspection framework in September.

Its report said: "The governing body is aware that improvements are needed and is putting together a clear action plan.

"They are very committed to supporting staff to make the necessary improvements."

There were 37 children on roll during inspection, aged between one and four years old.

Grandpont Nursery School itself was separately inspected by Ofsted in 2017, and was awarded a 'good' rating.