THESE bright youngsters have plenty to smile because they are, along with the staff at their nursery, simply outstanding.

Grosvenor Nursery School, in Kearsley, is a place where children flourish and, by the time they leave, are ready to go on to school, Ofsted inspectors found.

And the achievement of children is made even more exceptional given that many were found to start with skills that are below those typically expected for their age and, for some, well below, particularly in their personal, social and emotional development.

Ofsted inspectors said: “Excellent teaching and stimulating learning actively inspire and excite children to want to learn, giving them a first-class start to their education.

“Children love coming to nursery, where they form firm friendships with other children.

“They flourish here and thoroughly enjoy their time at the school.”

Headteacher Maureen Vickers said:” We are absolutely delighted to have gained the outstanding status in our Ofsted inspection and to have maintained our high standards of quality education and care.

“The report reflects the hard work and dedication of all our staff and governors, the excellent teaching, the exciting curriculum and the rich opportunities for learning.

“We have nothing but praise for the support of our parents and, of course, for our children, who were singled out in the report for their enthusiasm for learning and their exemplary behaviour.”

The nursery gives children outdoor learning experiences and Ofsted inspectors recommended that it should apply for “forest school” status.

Mrs Vickers added: “We are particularly pleased with the response in the report to our outdoor activities and our forest school’s work.

“These areas are a very important part of our curriculum and we have worked hard to achieve this rich outdoor provision for our children over the past few years.”