A “FRIENDLY and vibrant” children’s centre in Barking has become the first in London to be judged “outstanding” by Ofsted.

Inspectors praised Abbey Children’s Centre in North Street for its support for families and young children, and described the atmosphere there as “warm, welcoming and calm”.

They judged it as outstanding overall, and gave 23 out of the 25 inspection categories an “outstanding” rating and two were “good”.

A report said the needs of each individual child and their family are of the highest importance to the staff, and the centre is highly regarded.

Inspectors also found that children really enjoyed learning and were ahead of other children when it came to listening, understanding, use of language and social skills.

One comment included in the report said: “I have never been part of a children’s centre as friendly, welcoming, vibrant and exciting as Abbey.”

Cllr Rocky Gill, Cabinet Member for Education and Children, said he was delighted by the assessment:

“This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone who has been involved in the centre. I’d also like to thank the parents who contribute and make a difference at Abbey.”

Parent Louise Driscoll said: “The staff at the centre are incredible and go above and beyond to help out. I attend Baby Babble with my son and the course has taught me how to communicate and respond to him.”