AN after school club is helping create “positive role models” according to education watchdog Ofsted.

KidzZone, in The Street, Maldon, was rated good in its first inspection since April 2014.

Inspector Tina Mason found the club ensured “children’s emotional needs are well supported and they have secure relationships with staff”.

She added: “The children are confident and display a good sense of belonging.

“They form good relationships with other children.

“Staff are knowledgeable and passionate about the club.

“They focus well on developing children’s social skills. Children’s behaviour is good. All children are polite and respectful of each other.

“Older children are very mindful of younger ones and make sure they include them in club activities.”

As well as creating good relationships with the children, parents are a big part of the community around the club.

Mrs Mason said the parents are very proud their children attend the club, which supports youngsters from just four to ten, who are safeguarded to a high degree.

She added: “Staff understand their role and responsibility in protecting children in their care.”