THE Opportunity Centre in Coleford has been awarded the Bristol Standard Certificate.

Lead practitioner Sonia Molyneux has spent more than two years working towards the qualification to improve the quality and effectiveness of the centre.

Manager Marilyn Smith said: "This is a self-evaluation framework which helps early years settings to develop and improve the quality and effectiveness of their provision through an annual cycle of reflection.

“It allows us to achieve a high-quality provision for all our children in a culture of inclusion and anti-discriminatory practice.

“It is a voluntary process and can be time consuming, but the Opportunity Centre values it as a vital resource for improving our provision. 

“Sonia believes it is important to show that the centre is of the highest standard while constantly striving to improve and develop. Throughout the process she encouraged open discussion between staff and volunteers to celebrate strengths as well as setting realistic, measurable targets to benefit the children and their families.”