A NURSERY has been rated 'outstanding' by inspectors for a FIFTH consecutive time.

Lee Royd Nursery School, in Accrington, was praised for being 'extremely well-resourced and organised' and for providing children with a range of 'fantastic opportunities' to learn.

Inspectors also said the Royds Street nursery is a 'happy place to learn or work.'

The nursery, which has 113 children aged between two and four, was previously given top marks in 2004, 2008, 2011 and 2014.

Lead inspector Tim Vaughan praised Karen Smith for her work since becoming headteacher of the nursery in January this year.

Ms Smith's predecessor Karen Coffey retired last Christmas after more than a decade at the nursery.

He said: "This school is a happy place to learn or work.

"As the new headteacher, you have set the right tone for moving the school forward.

"Staff morale is high.

"Teachers and teaching assistants believe in the changes you are bringing about to support and improve their

skills.

"You show a deep understanding of the needs of local families, the quality of teaching provided by staff and education in the early years.

"Parents and carers are very supportive of the school.

"The school remains an extremely well-resourced, organised nursery that provides children with a wide range of fascinating opportunities to learn.

"For example, children learn to create real fruit kebabs or predict what large, heavy teapots of water will feel

like when empty."Children spend much time exploring outdoors, including being energetic and physically active."

Mr Vaughan said the atmosphere throughout the nursery is 'very positive and friendly.'

He added: "Staff supervise children well, including when they use the large outdoor equipment and

areas to play.

"The atmosphere throughout the school is very positive and friendly.

"Children are rightly wary of strangers, such as an inspector.

"Parents say that their children love attending school and have a good relationship with their special member of staff.

"Parents told me that staff are always available if they need to discuss any individual concerns."

The nursery said on Facebook: "The staff, governors and myself at Lee Royd Nursery School are very pleased to announce our latest, fantastic 'Outstanding' Ofsted report!

"Well done everybody, especially to all our supportive parents and children of course - A big 'thank you'."