A PLAY group has been ordered to improve in its latest inspection.

The Little Dolphin Playgroup at Tyldesley Rugby Club was given a score of “requires improvement” in three out of four areas by education watchdog Ofsted.

Its leadership and management, quality of teaching, learning and development and the outcomes for children were all rated in that category.

The Astley Street centre was given an overall rating of “good” in its last inspection in 2014.

The latest report said: “Supervisory sessions are not highly effective in identifying and addressing some inconsistencies in staff’s teaching.

“Staff’s teaching is variable. Some staff deliver very strong teaching and interactions while other staff are less effective at supporting children’s play and learning.

“Staff do not use the information gained from assessments well enough to check the progress children make and plan for the next steps in their learning.

“The management team do not carry out an effective process of self-evaluation.

“Some weaknesses in practice have not been highlighted.”

It was given a rating of “good” in the area for personal development, behaviour and welfare.

The report added: “Partnerships with parents are strong.

“They are very complimentary with regard to children’s care and learning.

“Parents value staff offering strategies to help to address children’s challenging behaviour at home.

“Children who have special educational needs or disabilities are extremely well-supported.

“All required support and guidance from outside agencies is always accessed.”

Following the inspection which took place on March 7, the learning provider is working with Wigan Council to make improvements.

Alan Lindsay, assistant director for education at the council, said: “We are committed to working with our early years providers to ensure our children get the best possible start to their education.

“We are supporting Little Dolphins with regular visits to address the recommendations raised by Ofsted and they are responding well to this guidance.”