STAFF and toddlers are celebrating after Bolton College's nursery bounced back to be marked good with outstanding features.

Six months ago the college's early years and pre-school centre was found to be inadequate after all areas were given the lowest rating of four.

Now Ofsted inspectors have found the nursery to be good: effectiveness of the leadership and management, quality of teaching, learning and assessment and outcomes for children were given a two - 'good' - rating and personal development, behaviour and welfare were given the top mark of 'outstanding'.

Ofsted reported that "children are highly secure in their environment" and "make good progress in their learning and development".

Inspectors reported: "The manager has used self-evaluation to identify weaknesses and has implemented a wide range of action plans over the last six months.

"This has raised standards at the centre to a good level."

They added: "The manager and staff have high expectations of all children.

"This means that the activities they plan provide a good level of challenge to prepare children in readiness for school.

"Children are meeting or working beyond the level of development that is typical for their age range."

Janet Greenwood, childcare co-ordinator at Bolton College, said: “We are thrilled with the results of the re-inspection.

"An immediate action plan was implemented following Ofsted’s last visit in February and this has brought services back up to standard. I am so proud of Audrey West, nursery manager, and her team for working so hard to achieve this well-deserved result.

"We intend to continue improving our provision so that all areas reach ‘outstanding’.”

Parents say they are pleased with the care the nursery provides for their children, while they are learning in college.

Jordan Alexandra, whose son Jacob attends the nursery, said:“Jacob has settled very well.

"This is his first time in a nursery setting and he has already made some great relationships.

"His development has come on leaps and bounds in the last few weeks and I know that is down to the staff at the nursery. I could not have found a better place for my son.”