Ofsted pulls report criticising nursery for failing to teach children about cultural diversity

An Ofsted report which criticised a nursery for failing to teach children about ethnic diversity has been withdrawn, the watchdog has said.

The Lincolnshire nursery had received feedback that it was not providing enough opportunities for its children to "learn about people who are different to themselves".

Town and Country Kiddies Nursery in Chestnut House, Market Rasen, was downgraded from "outstanding" to "good" by Ofsted.

Parents said it was an example of "politically-correct nonsense".

Around 98% of the town's residents are white, according to the 2001 census.

Owner Louise Davies told the local newspaper that the report's findings reflected the absence of cultural variety in the community.

According to the paper, the Ofsted report began: "Staff do not provide enough opportunities for children to develop a strong sense of belonging at the nursery and to learn about people who are different to themselves."

The education watchdog confirmed it had withdrawn the report for review following the concerns raised by Ms Davies.

A spokeswoman said: "The regional director has spoken to the owner about her concerns, and we have withdrawn the report while we review the case.

"Following this a decision will be taken about next steps."