Paint Pots is coated in praise by inspectors for its excellent care and education

Children and staff at a Southampton nursery have been celebrating after it was rated “outstanding” by inspectors.

Paint Pots Nursery, in Howard Road, Shirley, was given the top rating in all areas when it was examined by Ofsted.

The inspector recognised the “excellent care and education” received by children at the nursery and also reserved praise for its excellent partnership with parents.

Staff members were said to be enthusiastic and confident, which helped provide the children with a “stimulating and vibrant” learning environment.

The glowing report means that the Paint Pots group, which has the motto “love, laughter and learning,” can now boast three “outstanding” nurseries across the city, according to their most recent Ofsted inspections.

Paint Pots owners, Anna and David Wright, hailed the “commitment and hard work” put in by staff at the Shirley branch, which caters for around 100 families.

Manager Naomi Roberts said: “The staff are all very happy about the results. Obviously it’s great to get recognition for the hard work that people have been putting in.

“It’s been a real team effort and I think a lot of it is also down to the level of communication we have with parents. We try to keep them involved as much as we can,” she added.