A NURSERY in Ravenscliffe has been rated 'Good' by Ofsted in its first inspection.

Children's Place Gateway, in Thackeray Road, was praised by inspectors for its close work with schools and relationships between staff and children.

The report said: "Managers and staff work closely with schools and other professionals involved in children's development.

"This helps to provide effective support for children who need extra help and ensures all children are ready for the move on to school.

"Staff complete observations and monitor children's progress. They are knowledgeable about children they are working with. They plan a varied curriculum, taking into account children's skills and interests.

"Children, including those who have special educational needs and/or disabilities, make good progress from their starting points.

"Staff take care to get to know children well and build strong, warm relationships with them. This promotes children's emotional development. Children settle quickly at the nursery and feel safe and secure.

"Staff have clear expectations of children and are good role models for them. Staff encourage children to use good manners and be kind to each other. Children's behaviour is good."

To become an Outstanding nursery, Children's Place was told it needs to question younger children more to help them develop their ideas further, and to take more opportunities to strengthen children's use and knowledge of maths.