A CHILDREN’S activity centre has been given a glowing first review from a watchdog for its "enthusiastic and dedicated team".
Barracudas Colchester, based at Colchester County High School for Girls, in Norman Way, has received a positive review from Ofsted.
The activity camp provides a range of activities for children aged four to 14.
It is open weekdays during the school holidays and has an indoor swimming pool, motorsports track, archery range, art room, sports hall, drama studio, tennis courts and more.
The report says staff “happily greet children on arrival” and the business is “very well-organised”, and children are “keen” to start their day.
The report said: “There is a strong focus on the young children's welfare.
“Staff are keen to ensure they are confident and happy and that their individual needs are fully met.
“An effective key-person system is in place and children have established close and trusting bonds with their familiar adult.
“The staff are caring and offer children reassurance when needed.”
Barracudas Colchester employs 11 members of staff who all have early years qualifications at level 3 or above, and one has qualified teacher status.
Barracudas Activity Day Camps director Karen Baynes said: "For over 30 years, Barracudas has been providing school holiday activity camps, all of which are Ofsted registered.
"We’re thrilled to announce that our camp at Colchester County High School has received the highest rating possible in its first inspection — a testament to the exceptional standards we strive to uphold across our 50-plus camps.
"This summer, the Ofsted inspector’s positive feedback on our local camp has made us particularly proud.
"Our goal is to keep children active and engaged during the school holidays, with a strong emphasis on safety and development.
"We’re dedicated to offering an unparalleled range of activities with choices for every session, backed by rigorous recruitment and training to ensure our staff deliver outstanding holiday experiences.
"We couldn’t be more pleased with this summer’s Ofsted findings."
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