A NURSERY and preschool where staff have a thorough knowledge of each child and place their well-being at the centre of everything they do has been rated outstanding.

Bright Horizons Otterbourne Day Nursery and Preschool was given the highest possible rating across all categories by Ofsted.

The report, published last week following an inspection in December, said children could virtually run the nursery themselves, demonstrating amazingly high levels of independence and self-control.

READ MORE: Ofsted praise transformation to good at Weston Park Primary

It reads: "Staff have a thorough knowledge of each child and place their well-being at the centre of everything they do. Children receive a warm welcome, and staff are on hand to provide reassuring cuddles and support throughout the day.

"Children are eager to start their day, excitedly exploring the highly stimulating learning environment. They are curious and remarkably well engaged in their play. It is heart-warming to see babies and young children giggle with joy while they race in the garden.

"There is a multitude of opportunities to develop their determination and problem-solving skills.

"Children could virtually run the nursery themselves. They fully understand all routines and demonstrate amazingly high levels of independence and self-control. For instance, children lead their own play; as they use an agility ladder, they patiently wait for their turn and politely tell their friends to move out of the way to make sure they will not run into them. Children's wonderful and kind behaviour reflects the staff's consistent approach and high expectations they have for children's conduct."

Kim Doubell, Bright Horizons Otterbourne Day Nursery and Preschool manager, told the Daily Echo: "The team are incredibly proud to have achieved an outstanding result as it reflects the hard work we put in every day to ensure the very best for our children and families.

"The children are the heart and motivation for everything we do. At Otterbourne, we create a nurturing environment, inspiring children through enriching experiences to assure they learn and develop through play.

"Our motivated and passionate team encourages each child to fulfil their potential by providing excellent Early Years care, which we at Bright Horizon’s view as the root of a child’s education and development, setting them up for lifelong learning."

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