A "UNIQUE" inner-city nursery has been rated as outstanding by Ofsted inspectors.

The education watchdog visited St Edmund's Nursery School and Children's Centre, Girlington, in early November and gave it the highest rating in every category.

A report from the visit said children "flourish" at the nursery.

"They are extremely happy and settled," inspectors said.

"Children are provided with high-quality care in a calm and stimulating learning environment.

"The supportive and professional team know children very well and children show that they are comfortable in their care.

"Inspectors said children achieve "the best possible outcomes" and they develop "a strong sense of right and wrong".

The report said: "They display excellent behaviour due to well-established boundaries and carefully structured routines. "

The kind and caring approach, demonstrated by practitioners, is reflected in the children's positive behaviour.

"Children have impeccable manners and listen intently to each other."Inspectors also praised how children at the nursery develop a "strong connection" to the community.

They said the nursery went "above and beyond" during the Covid-19 pandemic to support children's learning at home and check on their welfare.

Online singing and story sessions were provided and practitioners also delivered books and toys.

The report added: "Leaders and practitioners give top priority to keeping children safe. They review the nursery environment, both indoors and outdoors, to make sure it is always safe and secure.

"Practitioners are vigilant in noticing any changes in a child's behaviour and actions. Staff complete extensive training in safeguarding. They know what to do if they have any concerns about a child's welfare.

"They note any patterns in children's absence and check to make sure there are no concerns about a family's wellbeing."

Executive headteacher Sian Hudson said of the report: "We are delighted with our outstanding rating.

"The children and families of Bradford deserve the very best and our amazing team ensures that when children come to St Edmund's Nursery School, that's exactly what they get.

"The first five years of a child's life are crucial. Connections in the brain are forming and children are growing and developing rapidly.

"We work in genuine partnership with every child's family to foster trusting relationships and ensure that health, wellbeing and early education are equally valued.

"Children learn best through play and we make sure there is always enough time, space and freedom for them to set their own challenges, take risks and have fun."