A NURSERY has received the highest possible rating from Ofsted.

The Mulberry Bush Montessori Nursery in West Mersea was visited by Ofsted inspectors who rated it outstanding across the board.

The nursery received top scores in all categories including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management and overall effectiveness.

A report released following the inspection said: “Confident little people enter the nursery foyer and part from their parents and carers with ease.

“They are greeted by smiling staff who chat calmly to them and ask them how they are.

“Children respond enthusiastically and enter into lively discussion with staff.

“Children are happy, safe, content and extremely engaged during their nursery day.”

Inspectors focused on the improved outdoor area of the nursery which allows children to explore the outdoors.

The report said: “The recently improved outdoor undercover area, enables children to freely access the outdoor learning environment in all weather.

“Children have excellent opportunities to participate in small, calm activities in the recently installed sensory rooms.

“For example, they participate in yoga sessions.

“Other children have use of the room as a quiet space to take a few minutes to relax away from the busy nursery activities.”

Principal Cheryl Knight said: “We are thrilled and so proud to have achieved outstanding once again.

“Especially in light of the new Education Inspection Framework criteria that came into force in September, and that is now vigorous, making this highest possible rating even more difficult to achieve.

“We are delighted our hard work has once again been officially recognised and we will continue to maintain our high standards of care and education for the children and families at out setting.”