A school has maintained its 'good' rating in its latest Ofsted report.

The Viking Junior Academy in Viking Road, Maldon was commended by the school watchdog for its effectiveness in providing support for young children, hosting physical activities such as bike riding and using balancing equipment, ensuring they are kept safe at all times.

The report said: "Children are happy. They are confident to explore their surroundings, seek out their friends and talk to staff.

"Staff promote kindness and respect towards others and behaviour throughout the pre-school is good.

"They are enthusiastic and passionate about providing a high-quality learning experience for all children.

"Consequently, children are keen and active learners."

The pre-school which is set in the grounds of Wentworth Primary School maintained its rating which it also received in 2015.

However, the Ofsted inspector added that based on last month's inspection, some improvements are still needed if the school hopes to achieve an outstanding rating.

The report said: "Staff have not yet achieved highly effective partnerships with providers of some other settings that children attend to provide excellent continuity of learning.

"On occasion, staff ask lots of questions in quick succession, which sometimes prevents children from engaging fully and exploring their own ideas."