STAFF at a “delightful” Kidderminster nursery are celebrating after being praised by Government inspectors.

Squirrels Nursery, based at the Tree Tops Children’s Centre at Birchen Coppice School, was assessed by Ofsted and rated ‘good’ overall.

But inspectors were particularly impressed with the personal development, behaviour and welfare of children who attend and gave that aspect the highest ‘outstanding’ rating.

Quality of teaching, leadership and outcomes for pupils were all rated as ‘good’.

To get an overall ‘outstanding’ grade, Ofsted said the nursery needs to enhance outdoor learning opportunities and strengthen professional development to help the quality of teaching reach the next level.

The report said: “This is a delightful nursery where children are seen as unique individuals. Children show they feel very safe and secure as they make choices about their play and learning.

“Practitioners successfully promote a sense of achievement and children are supported extremely effectively to develop their independence and self-care skills. First class attention is given to promoting children's health and physical development.”

Manager Carly Kendrick said: “Standards and expectations are high, and it’s a challenging time for childcare providers with limited budgets and diminishing support, so to achieve ‘a good’ and such a positive report is wonderful.

“To be acknowledged and appreciated for what we do is most rewarding. My team are motivated, dedicated and extremely passionate, and the YMCA are a very supportive organisation to work for so it helps me manage the setting more effectively. We are very proud of ourselves and each other.

“To be awarded an ‘outstanding’ for personal development, behaviour and welfare represents what we do best. We respect and meet the individual needs of the child and nurture and support them to be the best they can be.

“We are a family here, we love our job, and it’s reflected in our inspection report. We will have a lovely Christmas and enjoy reflecting on a successful year. Its hard work, but the children are worth it.”