An out of school club, where children negotiate their own rules for good behaviour, has been described as “outstanding” by Ofsted.

Lions Den Out of School Club, which is based at Doddington’s Lionel Walden School, was rated as outstanding in all areas by inspector Veronica Sharpe. The club runs from 7.45-9am and 3-6pm during school term time.

Children have an “excellent” relationship with the helpful and friendly staff and enjoy a wide range of activities, she observed.

She said: “Children thrive in this warm and friendly club. They enjoy a superb range of experiences indoors and outside that closely match their individual ideas and preferences.

“Staff have a thorough understanding of safeguarding procedures, including the use of cameras, computer tablets and internet safety. They teach the children to keep themselves safe and are vigilant in protecting them from harm.

“Children have exceptional opportunities to make decisions. They plan their own activities, choose new resources and decide on the food and drinks provided. As a result, they are confident and enormously self-reliant.

“Children benefit from excellent relationships with staff and each other. They behave extremely well and know how to take turns and negotiate the use of popular resources.

“The managers and staff are very enthusiastic and have high aspirations for the club. They work exceptionally well together to create a stimulating environment where children can relax, play and have fun.”