HIGHWOOD Nursery at Brockenhurst College has been rated Outstanding following an inspection by educational standards watchdog Ofsted.

Inspectors confirmed that the nursery’s performance was Outstanding in each of the four key areas under scrutiny.

Areas inspected are effectiveness of the leadership and management, the quality of teaching, learning and assessment, personal development, behaviour and welfare and outcomes for children.

Ofsted inspector Jacqueline Good said: "Staff know individual children exceptionally well and use information from observations and assessments to meticulously plan how best to support learning.

"Children develop excellent independence and practical life skills. They manage tasks and self-care skills extremely well for themselves in preparation for school."

This was Highwood’s first Ofsted inspection since the nursery moved to the college grounds last year into a new purpose-built facility, funded by Hampshire County Council.

Vicky Bidwell, who manages the nursery which looks after 70 children aged three months to five years, said: "I’m absolutely thrilled at the outcome of the inspection.

"To be awarded Outstanding in the first inspection at our new premises is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our remarkable team of childcare professionals.

"It’s wonderful to know that their commitment to making Highwood a caring, stimulating and friendly environment has been recognised and rewarded."

Parent Alexa Phillips said: "The most wonderful thing about Highwood is that my little girl is truly happy there. You couldn’t ask for more."

College Principal, Di Roberts CBE said: "This is a very well deserved accolade for our nursery and reflects the excellence of our truly outstanding nursery team and manager, Vicky Bidwell."