Suspended nurseries to re-open early

The Mama Bear’s group had been told to keep the two Devon premises closed until mid February, but Ofsted has now lifted the temporary suspension.

The nurseries, in Long Road and Queen Elizabeth Drive, Paignton, were temporarily closed on 11 January. They will now reopen on Monday, 25 January. Both nurseries are graded outstanding by Ofsted.

Mama Bear’s managing director Tony Driffield said, 'Ofsted decided to temporarily suspend the nursery registration while they carried out an investigation but have now withdrawn the suspension with immediate effect. We’re pleased that we are able to offer our usual provision for our families a month before we thought we might be able to.

'We have been co-operating with Ofsted and the police who are investigating a former employee. The investigation is still ongoing but both Ofsted and the police are satisfied that children are not at risk at our settings. The safeguarding of children is our first priority at all times.

'We apologise to those parents who were affected by the temporary closure and we look forward to welcoming the children back on Monday morning.'

Devon and Cornwall police said the suspect, of Paignton, is accused of possessing and distributing the images, and has been released on police bail until 5 May.

A spokesman said following the arrest, ‘Whilst the offences for which the man has been arrested are not connected in any way to his position of employment, all necessary avenues of safeguarding and investigation are being considered.

‘The man has resigned from his position.’