A nursery in Letchworth is celebrating after it was upgraded from good to outstanding by Ofsted.

Glebe Kids nursery received the accolade following an inspection in June this year, its first since 2017.

Inspectors praised the "caring and nurturing setting" with "highly effective" staff who help children develop their confidence.

They noted that children at the nursery "thrive", and "are at the heart of everything the staff do".

Other highlights from the report picked out the impeccable behaviour and outstanding communication and language skills shown by the children, as well as the dedication shown by manager Sam and her staff.

Inspectors also picked out the effectiveness of safeguarding policies and support for children with special educational needs.

Parents were found to have an "overwhelmingly positive" view of the nursery, where children are "deeply engaged" and have an "exceptional" love of books.

Under the current Ofsted framework, nurseries must be rated outstanding in each of the four areas up for inspection to be rated outstanding overall.

Glebe Kids nursery achieved this by achieving the top rating in quality of education; behaviour and attitudes; personal development; and leadership and management.

Kent Atkinson, the owner and director of Glebe Kids nursery, expressed immense pride in the outstanding rating and the accomplishments of the nursery's team.

He told the Comet: "I am incredibly proud of our manager, Sam, and the entire team at Glebe Kids Nursery. Achieving an outstanding rating is a testament to their hard work and unwavering dedication," said Kent Atkinson.

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"The comments in the Ofsted report affirm what we have always believed - that our team genuinely cares about the well-being and education of the children in our care.

"Sam's commitment and dedication has been truly extraordinary, and it is thanks to her efforts and the exceptional teamwork that we have achieved this remarkable outcome."

Kent also expressed his gratitude to the local community "for their continued support and trust over the years".

More information about Glebe Kids nursery is available by visiting their website or by contacting Kent Atkinson at info@glebekids.co.uk.