AN Accrington nursery has been praised by inspectors.

Education watchdog Ofsted said Heathland School and Nursery, at the college, in Sandy Lane, showed excellence in several areas, and that teaching was ‘good overall’.

A report following the inspection, on February 14, said: “Children are kept safe in the nursery and behaviour is good because children benefit from consistent explanations and staff provide them with positive role models.

“Links with parents and a variety of agencies are strong. Relevant information is shared and children's individual needs are supported and met very well.

“This means that all children are fully included and have a positive attitude towards learning.”

Leadership and management were also deemed to be ‘very good’, and that staff work together to ensure children have a good experience and are well safe-guarded.

The nursery, which is run from two buildings in the grounds of the main school, missed out on a rating of ‘excellent’ however.

The report said: “Occasionally, children have fewer opportunities to lead their own play to even further enhance their very good learning experiences.”