BARNABEES nursery in Kidderminster has been graded as outstanding in all areas of its Ofsted report for the second time - but that is not the only reason staff and children are celebrating.

The nursery in Wolverley Road, Franche also received an official letter from Buckingham Palace thanking the children for the “wonderful” birthday card they made for the Queen’s 85th birthday.

Elain Bagnall, joint owner-manager said: “We are extremely proud of our Ofsted report. It was a team effort and reflects the hard work and commitment of all our staff.”

She explained the birthday card project had enabled children to link the Queen’s birthday with learning about the queen bee which tied in with the name of the nursery.

Barnabees has also gained its third Eco Green Flag Award in recognition of its environmental work to teach children about the importance of looking after the planet.

Activities have included taking part in Green Britain Day, The Big Tidy Up, Switch Off Fortnight and Fair Trade Fortnight where children and parents learnt about the importance of saving energy, recycling, composting, waste-free lunch boxes and real nappies.

The nursery also promotes growing fruit and vegetables, monitoring the bird, insect, plant and animal life within the nursery grounds and highlighting global diversity.

A website has been launched at barnabeesnurseryschool.com where the full Ofsted report can be viewed along with a whole host of other information.

Pictured back from left, Finley Woodward, Angel Connor, Holly Crocker and Connor Bowers, all 4. Infront Evie Mistry, 4.