The Montessori Preschool, based at Christchurch Infant School, is closed by Ofsted amid criminal investigation and arrest

CHILD safety concerns amid a criminal investigation have closed a Christchurch preschool after a person was arrested.

The Montessori Preschool, based at Christchurch Infant School on Addiscombe Road, has had its registration suspended by education watchdog Ofsted.

Dorset Police has declined to release details of the nature of the arrest and investigation.

It is understood the preschool shut last Friday, the day after police were reportedly seen at the site.

A force spokesperson said: “We can confirm we are liaising with partners as we investigate a criminal allegation linked to the Montessori Preschool at Christchurch Infants.

“Ofsted has subsequently made the decision to suspend the licence of the pre-school while enquiries remain ongoing.

“A person has been arrested in connection with the incident and has been released on police bail as enquiries continue.”

The spokesperson added: “For operational reasons we are unable to go into any further details at this time.”

The Montessori Preschool is separate from Christchurch Infant School, which remains open.

A spokesperson for Ofsted said it did not comment on individual providers.