A BOURNEMOUTH nursery has been rated ‘outstanding’ with staff praised as “highly skilled” and “extremely knowledgeable”.

Park School Nursery, in Queens Park South Drive in Bournemouth, celebrated its first inspection since extending its age range to include children under two years old.

Ofsted inspectors found a “well-embedded and highly effective curriculum” that ensures all babies are making good progress.

The report said children benefit from learning opportunities such as exploring different textures including feathers, rice, oats and pasta.

Staff “expertly model” communication through verbal and sign language as well as using dual language flashcards for children with English as their second language.

The babies’ behaviour was described as “excellent” by inspectors and have a strong sense of belonging as staff display photos of their families and talk about home life.

Children also have their own belongings in the sleep room to help them feel comfortable and relaxed.

“They show secure attachments with their key person and are confident to seek cuddles and reassurance,” said inspectors.

The report also praised the positive relationships that nursery staff has formed with parents.

One parent said: “My daughter is so happy [at Park], the team are looking after her well, supporting her development and doing such a wide variety of activities.

“The level of communication is amazing with regular updates, pictures and daily diary updates.”

Rebecca Mellowes, nursery manager of 15 years, said: “Receiving an outstanding rating isn’t something you can achieve alone, and I would like to take the opportunity to thank the management team, the entire nursery staff team who always go above and beyond for the children and of course to all our families who allow us to play a key role in their child’s learning journey.

“Park Nursery wouldn’t be what it is without the whole community working together.”

 John Forsyth, CEO of Forfar Education and chairman of Park School and Nursery, said: “I’m exceptionally proud of this outcome, which follows on from another extremely positive inspection at our Dean Park Day Nursery in Bournemouth.

“These successive and encouraging inspections are testimony to the professionalism, dedication, and ability of the teams at both Park School Nursery and Dean Park Day Nursery.”