CHILDREN at a long running pre-school in Portishead were celebrating this week after moving to a new base. The Hilltop Pre-school, which is part of Portishead Playgroups, officially moved from its home at the Avon Way hall to a new classroom at St Barnaba

CHILDREN at a long running pre-school in Portishead were celebrating this week after moving to a new base.The Hilltop Pre-school, which is part of Portishead Playgroups, officially moved from its home at the Avon Way hall to a new classroom at St Barnabas C of E School at West Hill.The decision to move to a new base followed new guidelines by education watchdogs who said children attending pre schools should have access to open space.Hilltop Pre School manager Carole Armitage said: "The move came about as part of a change in OFSTED regulations which say we have to provide some sort of outside play area. We did not have any access to this type of facility at Avon Way hall so this is why we have taken the step to move to St Barnabas."The playgroup, which can have up to 80 youngsters attending it during the summer, will now be able to use St Barnabas' field for activities as well as the computer suite and the school hall.The playgroup is a registered charity and run on a not-for-profit basis and employs seven staff to run its various sessions throughout the week.Activities are run for two to three year olds in the afternoons and for children aged from three to school start age in the mornings.Mrs Armitage, who has been involved with the pre-school since 1988, said: "We are really excited about moving to St Barnabas School because the facilities are more modern and the outdoor space and access to other facilities within the building means we can expand our activities."For more information on the pre-school contact Mrs Armitage on 01275 846193.