Lack of childcare facilities was causing a real headache for families in two outlying villages.

There was a severe shortage in both Bolster Moor and Wellhouse. And parents of pupils at the two federated village primary schools of Wellhouse and Clough Head were constantly asking headteacher Claire Kenworthy for help.

So Claire and teaching assistant Alison de Barkham put their heads together and decided to solve the problem themselves.

They set up Hoppers out-of-school club six months ago, based in the hall and library at Wellhouse Junior and Infant School. Now parents and staff are celebrating as the club has just been given the thumbs-up by Ofsted.

They have graded it as 2-Good following a visit just five months after Hoppers opened.

Ofsted inspector Helene Terry said: “Children are happy in the relaxed environment of the after-school club, and confidently share news about their day at school with the staff.

“Staff work well with the schools that children attend, which supports children’s continuity of care and learning.”

The inspector praised the club for a wide range of toys and resources, as well as children’s health and safety.

Owner Alison said: “We are in a rural area with very little childcare and parents were constantly asking the headteacher if she could help.

“We set up Hoppers to respond to the needs of parents and we are absolutely thrilled with the Ofsted report, as are our governors, headteacher and parents.

“We are a local out-of-school club for the two schools. We have a personal relationship with parents and all the children know each other.

“I have been in the brilliant position of having the support of the governors and the school.

“We are now working on self-evaluation, and our aim is to be outstanding at our next Ofsted inspection.

Headteacher Claire said: “At school we explored the possibility of childcare facilities, and the out-of-school club has gone from strength to strength.

“Alison’s determination and commitment has been fantastic, she has put her heart and mind into Hoppers and got it established in quite a short period of time.

“It is great to have these facilities to offer our current and future parents. Everyone, including the children, is very happy.”

Hoppers currently has 17 children on roll and places for up to 24.