A TODDLERS’ group has become the first in Tendring to pick up anaward from the Pre-School Learning Alliance.

Noah’s Ark toddlers’ group, in Kirby-le-Soken, which has been running for five years, has been recognised as a safe, secure and stimulating environment for children.

The group started in Baker Hall, Crossfield Way, Kirby Cross, and moved to St Michael’s Church hall, The Street, Kirby-le-Soken, two years ago. It also changed its name from St Michael’s Parents and Toddlers group to Noah’s Ark group.

Dawn Peal Shankar, one of three volunteers who run the group, said: “Part of the reason for the name change is a lot of grandparents are looking after children and weren’t coming along.

“We felt we could reach more people and encourage more people to come along.”

The group has between 18 to 25 children, from new-borns to five-year-olds.

The team was successful in its application for the Good Practice Scheme award from the alliance.

Mrs Triffitt said: “We are the first group in the Tendring area to get this award. There’s a few in Colchester that have it, but it’s really to say we are recognised as a good practice.”

Steve Alexander, chief executive at the alliance, said the good practice scheme was a unique way of rating baby and toddler, and play groups in the Essex area.

He added: “Noah’s Ark should be commended for being the first in Tendring to achieve this award.”

The group meets on Wednesday mornings from 10am, in term time, at St Michael’s Church hall.

For more information, call Dawn Peal Shankar on 01255 670553.