A nursery in Great Lever has been recognised as ‘good’ following an inspection by Ofsted.

Shining Stars Nursery, which also has provisions in Astley Bridge, Blackburn and Preston, was inspected by the education watchdog in November.

The site located on Wadsworth Business Park retained its ‘good’ status that Ofsted also gave it upon its previous inspection in 2016.

Inspector Lois Hulley found an “inclusive” nursery where children “develop and learn together harmoniously”.

She added: “Staff help children to gain knowledge and skills that support them well for their future learning. For example, staff effectively build children's language by singing songs and rhymes.

READ MORE: Ofsted rates Beechwood Nursery in Bromley Cross 'inadequate'

“Toddlers learn new words, such as 'spider' and 'bus', as they play with puppets that match the nursery rhymes taught.

“Older children take weekly trips to the local library and attend swimming lessons. This gives them wider experiences that support their early education.”

Inspector Hulley discovered that the children at Shining Stars enjoy their time there. “They explore the environment with big smiles on their faces, demonstrating that they feel safe and secure,” she added.

“Leaders and staff get to know children and their families well from the start. This helps secure strong bonds. As a result, staff can identify any gaps in children's development.”

Inspector Hulley reported that all the children at the nursery, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, are supported to make progress.

She says they “engage positively in their learning” and their behaviour is “kind and friendly”.

READ MORE: Ofsted rates Tiny Tots Nursery in Great Lever 'inadequate'

“Children play alongside others calmly,” she added.

“Children occasionally fall out, because they do not understand the need to share toys. Staff are quick to model to one another how teach children to negotiate and regulate their behaviour. Children learn to relate to others and compromise.”

Inspector Hulley also found the setting to be safe, clean and tidy.

She says that food and snacked are served in a hygienic way which prevents the spread of infection.

She added: “Staff are aware of the procedures to follow should they be concerned about the welfare of a child or the behaviour of another adult in the nursery.

“All staff demonstrate their understanding of who to report their concerns to, both in and outside of the nursery.”

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at lewis.finney@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @lewisfinney18