A NURSERY in Cuddington with ‘extremely happy and kind’ children has been rated as good by Ofsted.

In its recent inspection, the government department visited Holly Grange Montessori and was particularly impressed by its ‘well-qualified and dedicated’ staffing team.

This was demonstrated after the inspector toured the nursery, spoke with staff, children and parents and observed the quality of teaching during indoor and outdoor activities.

The nursery was given an outstanding rating during its previous inspection back in November 2013, with the latest downgrade due to ‘variations’ in the standard of learning.

In its report, Ofsted said the nursery staff are all committed to delivering a ‘high-quality’ nursery experience for the children and work closely with parents, who are involved in all aspects of learning.

It also states that children have an ‘excellent’ understanding of how to identify risks and keep themselves safe.

“Staff involve them in completing daily risk assessments, using red triangles to identify any hazards in the environment, and they discuss these hazards and how to reduce any risks posed,” the report reads.

Ofsted add: “Children are extremely happy, behave exceptionally well and are extremely kind and considerate to others.”

One area which receives particular praise in the report is the nursery’s support for children with special educational needs and disabilities, which Ofsted say is ‘excellent’.

Staff attend specific training related to children's individual needs and have introduced the use of signs to support children's developing language and communication skills.

To regain their outstanding rating, Ofsted say the nursery needs to improve the monitoring of staff to support greater consistency in teaching practices.