In February 2006 we were presented with this award. The accreditation scheme, which was set up in 1992, assesses preschools in nearly 300 aspects of quality including curriculum planning, early learning goals, quality of teaching and parental involvement.

The award was presented by North East Hampshire MP James Arbuthnot at a special ceremony attended by Aldine Pugh (Pre-school Alliance development worker), parents, pupils and staff.

Mr Arbuthnot commented: "There's nothing as important to any of us as our children, and every child deserves the best start in life and the opportunity to achieve their potential. Good quality preschool services, like the Montessori Children's House, encourage young children's development and also help parents balance their work and family life."

Principal Suzanne Webb said: "This award gives parents the assurance that their children are being provided with a caring, stimulating environment of the highest quality in which they can develop socially, emotionally and intellectually. I would like to thank parents and staff for their hard work and look forward to many more happy and successful years ahead."

For details of the Pre-school Learning Alliance, visit their website.