A NURSERY is celebrating after being rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted on its first inspection. 

The education watchdog visited Ashfield House Day Nursery, Eccleshill, last month and gave it the top rating in every area. 

The report is full of glowing praise from inspectors.

"Children's smiles and laughter are contagious in this vibrant nursery," says the report.

"They enjoy their time here immensely and show this through their concentration and positive engagement in their play.

"Children consistently show a positive attitude to sharing and cooperating with their friends. Their behaviour is exceptional. 

"Children are happy, safe and busy, and show high levels of confidence in social situations."

Staff are praised for providing a curriculum which has an "extremely positive impact on helping children to progress through the stages of learning".

The report says: "They embrace children's interests and provide learning that is highly engaging. 

"Children build on and remember what they already know and can do."

It adds: "Staff identify children with special educational needs and/or disabilities quickly. 

"Through sensitive conversations with parents, staff ensure they understand the child's needs better.

"High-quality care is consistent throughout the nursery."

Inspectors say: "Parents report exceptional progress in their child's personal, social and emotional development just after a few months of attendance at the nursery. 

"They value the excellent communication and describe staff and leaders as always having a 'listening ear'. 

"Leadership and management are extremely strong."

The report also praises the nursery for having a "robust" understanding of the signs and symptoms of abuse.

It says: "They have effective knowledge of a wide range of safeguarding concerns, including female genital mutilation and radicalisation. 

"Managers and staff know how to act swiftly to report any concerns and allegations about adults who may be a risk to children. 

"They regularly attend training and complete courses online to make sure their knowledge is up to date. 

"Furthermore, there are excellent procedures for the safe storage of staff mobile phones, and these are placed in the office on arrival to the nursery."

Rosemary Izzard, owner of the nursery, said of the inspection: “I was absolutely delighted to get this Ofsted judgement. 

"It is a fabulous achievement to now have both of the Ashfield House nurseries judged 'outstanding' by Ofsted and this is testament to the contribution and loyalty of our staff teams who work so hard to provide the best start in life for all our children."