A BLACKBURN childminder has recommendations to improve her care provision – but was praised for creating a ‘happy and settled’ environment.

Childminder Ann Gallagher was said to be successful in engaging with children as they play at her home off Green Lane.

However Ofsted inspectors gave the childcare provision a rating of Requires Improvement in their latest report.

Inspector Janet Singleton said: “The childminder has a friendly approach resulting in children forming secure attachments with her, as a result, children are happy, settled and enjoy themselves in her home.”

She added that the childminder was aware and clear of her role regarding welfare and safeguarding. The childminder missed out on a Good rating due to a lack of observation, planning and targets in her teaching of children.

She has been advised to make more informed planning for children’s development. Inspectors also said more sensory resources should be made accessible to younger children.