A NURSERY has been hailed as "exceptional" and "awe-inspiring" by an education watchdog.

Tadpoles Nursery has been based in Woodham Walter since 1995 and moved its premises to the Old Chapel Stores in The Street in 2014.

In its last inspection in 2017, the school received a good rating from Ofsted.

In the latest Ofsted inspection, the school has been graded as outstanding in all areas.

It celebrated its latest Ofsted inspection results on its last day before Christmas break.

The nursery, which has 21 children on roll, was described as a place for children to “thrive”.

The Ofsted inspector, Fiona Sapler, said: “Children thrive in this exceptional setting.

“They thoroughly enjoy exploring and investigating the wonderful awe-inspiring activities and resources. Children are deeply engaged in what is on offer.”

The nursery was said to allow children to make choices independently, explore interests, be listened to, learn new skills and get involved in village events.

Manager Pam Seear was praised in the report for using her "vast experience" to its best. 

Ms Seear, said: “I’ve been the manager since 1995 and one member of staff has been with me since pretty much the start.

“We are very privileged as its idyllic place and we can do a lot outdoors and in the community such as taking part in celebrations like Bell Meadow Day.

“It’s lovely to be part of the village, I recognise former Tadpoles now bringing their own children to the nursery.

“The whole focus of everything we do is that the children are the heart of it.

“We look at what the children are interested in and go with it.

“We always look at ways to improve and update things to meet the needs of children.

“We constantly reflect on our practice and are always growing and learning.

“We work closely with the village school and do a school induction with the children and even if they don’t go to the village school it helps them get used to it.

“It really helps them get used to lunches and physical education lessons in the school hall.

“It allows them to adjust to their new school so they’re ready to move on.”