A children’s nursery has been praised for having strong parent partnerships and staff that give high levels of teaching.

Clarence House at High Barns in Ely has been rated ‘good’ in all areas and the manager commended for working hard to make sure children are well supported.

Jacqueline Baker, Ofsted inspector, said: “Staff know children well and prepare a wealth of stimulating experiences in the homely, warm environment available to them.

“As they play together staff skilfully promote young children’s learning at every chance possible,” she said.

“Consequently young children are keen to explore and investigate throughout the day.”

Children learn about their natural environment both inside and out and enjoy exciting learning opportunities, she said.

“Children build strong relationships with staff and benefit from plenty of cuddles when they are feeling unsure and needing reassurance.

“Daily routines such as nap time helps restore children’s much needed energy and prepares them well for a busy afternoon playing and learning,” she added.

The only reason the nursery, which opened in 2012, did not receive an outstanding rating, is during freely chosen play some staff working with older children did not reshape activities to fully challenge children’s concentration and learning, she said.

Outcomes for children are good, she added, while additional funding is used effectively to support identified children.

Youngsters with English as an additional language soon learn new words and successfully communicate with friend and staff, she said.