STAFF at a nursery in Westbrook were praised for working as good role models by watchdog inspectors.

Stepping Stones Childcare at the Westbrook Centre was graded as good by Ofsted following a visit on March 13.

In the report staff were also described as ‘kind and caring’ while the manager was labelled as ‘knowledgeable’ with a ‘very good understanding of her role and responsibilities’. 

Val Aspinall, inspector, also heaped praise on the children who have ‘settled in well to this welcoming nursery’.

She said: “Children make good progress and show a readiness to start school. Pre-school children confidently talk and express their views and ideas. 

“They listen to instructions and respond positively. 

“Children are learning to become independent. 

“For example, they put on their own shoes and coats and walk sensibly in pairs when they go out for a walk. 

“All children show curiosity and a keenness to explore their surroundings.”

The nursery missed out on the highest rating of outstanding as it was noted how staff do not always encourage children to continue to develop their home language during play.

It was also flagged up that while children make good progress, some planned activities do not precisely identify what they need to learn next.

Following the latest inspection, Vicky Gibson, nursery manager, welcomed the news, adding she was proud of the way staff worked together to help each child at Stepping Stones Childcare.