A ROSSENDALE nursery is celebrating a hat-trick - after being rated outstanding by Ofsted for the third time in a row.

Bacup Nursery School, in Cowtoot Lane, scored top marks in every area after a two-day visit by the education watchdog this month.

Headteacher Andrea Cooper said she and her staff were “thrilled to receive such a glowing endorsement of our nursery school”.

The school, which has 74 pupils, was previously rated as outstanding in December 2011 and June 2009.

Mrs Cooper, who became head three years ago, said: “We are delighted with our Ofsted inspection which recognises all the hard work of all the staff and governors.

“The inspector did say that the key strength of the school was how everything was evaluated and reviewed regularly.

“I feel we owe it to every three and four year old and their parents in Bacup to provide them with an outstanding nursery education and we will always strive to do this through high standards of excellence.”

In her report, which also took into account 10 parents’ views, lead inspector Elaine White praised the “rapid progress” children were making in preparation for reception classes.

She said: “The headteacher provides inspirational leadership and her drive and commitment to excellence is shared by staff. Strong team work underpins the success of the school as all share the same high expectation for children’s well-being and achievement.”

The nursery’s forest school, which allows children to explore mud, trees, log seating areas and dens, was also commended.

Ms White added: “Children are eager to come to nursery and behave extremely well. They show a strong sense of security in the welcoming and safe environment provided. Teaching is of high quality. Staff have an excellent knowledge of children’s abilities and are highly skilled.”

She continued:“The outdoor ‘forest school’ area provides a highly stimulating environment in which the children learn extremely well.” This area is not currently used as much as it could be to develop and enhance children’s learning