A NURSERY in Maldon is “delighted” to celebrate its latest rating from an education watchdog.

Daisy Chain Nursery, in Royal Court, Maldon, has been rated good in all areas by Ofsted inspectors.

It means the school has maintained the rating since its first inspection in 2004.

Children were said to approach the nursery confidently, with smiles on their faces and “eager to ring the doorbell”.

The babies and children were said to “swiftly build strong and trusting attachments to staff, supported by a tailored settling-in process”.

Physical and emotional wellbeing was seen to be prioritised during the inspector's visit.

The nursery holds a weekly dance session which develops the children’s self confidence and attention skills.

Inspector Louisa Taylor said: “Inspired by the enthusiastic dance teacher, children giggle with laughter as they express themselves freely, marching like soldiers and moving their bodies to the rhythm of the music.”

Parents of children enrolled in the nursery were said to “express overwhelming reports of dedicated and attentive staff who their children admire”.

The inspector said: “Although parents say they are happy with communication, some parents are not always sure about how to further extend their children's progress at home.”

The safeguarding arrangements were described as effective and given an “unquestionable priority”.

In order to improve the rating, staff need to improve interactions and procedures at mealtimes to ensure the needs of younger children are met "appropriately and efficiently”.

The inspector also said staff should work more with parents to "further support children’s progress at home”.

The inspector added: “The provider should review the use of available resources and teaching strategies to promote children's understanding and management of their feelings and those of others.”

Nursery manager Leanne Baxter said: "We are delighted with our latest report and the 'good' rating.

“The practitioners work hard all year round to provide amazing opportunities for learning and ensuring that the children are provided with a caring environment.

“We feel the report reflects the setting perfectly and the hard work that goes into every day here at Daisy Chain. It’s the perfect Christmas gift."