AN ORFORD nursery has been rated as outstanding by Ofsted for the third time in a row.

Sandy Lane Nursery and Forest School has received the top grading for the education watchdog following an inspection in November.

Ofsted found that ‘all aspects of the school’s work were of high quality’, describing the nursery as ‘enchanting and marvellous’.

In her report, senior Ofsted inspector Eileen Mulgrew said: “The leadership team has maintained the outstanding quality of education in the school since the last inspection.

“Your motto of ‘nurturing curiosity and inspiring imagination’ of the children in your care drives your ambition.

“Every decision that you take is based on making the school even better for all who attend.

“You constantly drive improvements by reflecting carefully on past decisions and taking suitable action to improve.

“The school provides a caring and nurturing place where children can be themselves and bloom.”

Previous inspections by Ofsted in 2010 and 2012 also found that Sandy Lane Nursery and Forest School was outstanding.

Ms Mulgrew added: “The entire learning environment is spectacular - it is a treasure trove of opportunities just waiting for children to enjoy.

“High quality resources capture children’s attention so that they want to learn.

“Children concentrate well and play happily.

“Gleeful giggle punctuate the steady buzz of little minds sponging up knowledge and skills.

“Staff intervene at just the right time - by asking the right question, they challenge a child’s thinking so that they can learn even more.”