A NURSERY has been praised for being an 'effective school with a number of outstanding features' by government inspectors.

The Ofsted visit found that the majority of children at John Smethurst Nursery School, in St James' Road, Blackburn, are on-line to meet or exceed the expected standards by the time they leave.

The school was found to have good leadership and to be managed well by the acting headteacher and governors. Since the nursery school's last inspection in April 1996 it has successfully addressed issues identified as needing attention and has made good progress .

The overall progress made by children in communications, language and literacy is very good , says the report

The Ofsted inspectors commented on the high quality of teaching seen across the curriculum, and also the high proportion of 'very good' and 'excellent' lessons.

"Bilingual staff were found to be very successful because they provide support that is unobtrusive but very constructive. The teaching is good because the planning is detailed and thorough. Work set and questions asked are demanding and relationships are excellent," said the report.

The inspectors also found that parents hold 'overwhelmingly' positive views about the school and are very supportive.

And parents have regular opportunities to discuss their child says the report.