Standards at a nursery have slipped, according to Ofsted inspectors.

A report released today has revealed that St Lawrence Church Pre-school in Waltham Abbey has been told to make improvements in the education of its pupils.

The watchdog sent inspectors to the nursery, a part of Hillhouse School in Ninefields, in December.

Today, inspector Clair Stockings said that the nursery, which cares for 27 three and four year olds, was stripped of its ‘good’ rating after a falls in planning standards and children’s needs.

She said: “There are few multicultural resources, particularly in the role-play area, that reflect a range of cultures and backgrounds to promote children’s understanding of the world further.

“Planning is not fully developed to consistently reflect the individual needs of all children. Self-evaluation has yet to be used fully.”

The pre-school was also criticised for breaking Ofsted rules.

When inspectors arrived they found that a new manager had been appointed without the regulator being informed.

however, the new manager and her team were praised in some areas.

Ms Stockings said: “This has minimal impact on children’s safety as Ofsted has a record of her as an existing registered individual for the pre-school.

“Staff have a sound knowledge and understanding of safeguarding policies.”

The team was also praised for supporting nutritional needs, providing a wide range of educational tools and forming good relationships with the children.

The  nursery has been asked to comment.