A BISHOP Auckland nursery creates an environment in which youngsters feel at home according to an Ofsted report.

Inspectors visiting the nursery at Bishop Auckland College found that the quality of provision in meeting the needs of children, its contribution to their well being, and the effectiveness of the leadership and management were all at the top grade one level.

The unannounced inspection on the nursery, which has 27 staff and teaches 144 children aged up to four years, was carried out last month.

The report said “children thoroughly enjoy exploring the nursery activities during the session”, “have fabulous opportunities to express themselves through various means”, and are “well prepared for their transition to school.”

It said “children are at home in the nursery”, that “their emotional well-being is extremely well supported” and “they behaved exceptionally well”.

It added: “The exceptionally high quality educational programme enables all children to really enjoy learning. Staff fully engage with children, providing a very personalised approach. Carefully planned activities help guide staff and provide a wonderful range of experiences for children…The highly skilled staff know each child extremely well.”

Natalie Davison, Bishop Auckland College principal and chief executive, said: “This is a truly stunning report which gives parents reassurance that provision at Bishop Auckland College Nursery is among the best in the country. Staff, parents and children should all be proud of this superb achievement.”