CHILDREN and staff at a Linthwaite nursery are simply the best – and that’s official.

The Stepping Stones nursery in Waingate has just received a glowing report from Ofsted inspectors with it being awarded the highest rating – outstanding – in all 17 categories.

Nursery proprietor Andrea Thornton said the nursery had been up and running for 20 years, adding: “We feel extremely proud of the care we offer to children and their families from all over Huddersfield.

“We are a family run business with a strong team of dedicated staff who make our learning environment outstanding.”

Inspectors, who visited in the nursery in June, said children were encouraged to explore the world around them.

It said they eagerly explored the extensive range of activities available and every child was encouraged to become a competent learner who felt safe, secure and valued.

It added that children made rapid progress and their needs were met through personalised learning.

The nursery’s management team was praised for successfully inspiring the staff and sharing high expectations across all areas of their practice, which drives ongoing development and continued improvement.