CHILDREN, staff and parents of a Southampton nursery could not help but smile when they found out they had achieved “outstanding” Ofsted results.

Paint Pots in Howard Road, Shirley, is the first nursery in the city to have achieved this top mark since the framework for inspection changed in September.

The nursery cares for 133 children aged between four months and eight years.

Inspectors were particularly impressed with how well staff get to know the children, embracing them with a range of varied and imaginative activities in a well resourced and stimulating environment.

Staff tailor teaching and activities to children of all abilities, including some with special educational needs and some that are learning English as a second language.

The report also notes that staff work closely with the children’s families, and they have excellent teaching skills, which help children progress in all areas of their development.

Inspectors commented that they were impressed by how highly parents spoke about the nursery, saying that the staff give it a family atmosphere.

The nursery prides itself in the way staff encourage children to form close emotional bonds, helping them to feel happy, confident and ready to learn.

This is not the first time they have impressed inspectors, they also received outstanding results last year.

Owners David and Anna Wright said: “We are delighted that Ofsted have yet again confirmed our belief that Paint Pots provides quality care and education for some of the youngest children in Southampton. “We have a wonderful team at Howard Road. This report reflects their daily commitment and enthusiasm.”