HIGH-QUALITY teaching and skilled staff ensure that pupils at a Derby Nursery school are prepared "extremely well" for starting primary school, according to a Government inspector.
Geoffrey Dorrity, of the Office for Standards in Education, had no hesitation in giving Stonehill Nursery School the top rating of "outstanding" after his visit.
In his report, he noted that children started the Stonehill Road nursery school from below expected points and "rapidly progress", leaving it with above expected national levels.
Mr Dorrity praised the school's 61 pupils for being eager to learn, polite and friendly and working and playing well together.
He said that "staff are always thinking of new and better ways to do things" and that the commitment and drive of the head teacher, Pat Geary, "has in no small measure underpinned the improvement since the last inspection", when the school was rated "good".
Mrs Geary said: "I am delighted as the report reflects the strong and positive relationship between the children, their families, the staff and governors."
The inspector observed seven lessons over the two-day visit and held discussions with three members of the governing body, a member of Derby City Council, subject coordinators and other members of staff.
The vast majority of children at the nursery schools are learning English as an additional language. Many are from a Pakistani Muslim heritage with an increasing number with an Eastern European background.
The nursery schools has achieved the Healthy Schools award, Steps to Quality accreditation and is working towards ICAN enhanced accreditation.
Mrs Geary said: ""The outstanding progress of all children is recognised especially our bilingual learners.
"This is a reflection of the hard working staff team whose commitment to our school ethos of 'play learn care share achieve together' shines through.
"I believe the child is at the heart of everything that is Stonehill Nursery and this shines through in our report."
Mr Dorrity praised the relationship between the school and parents, who hold it in "high esteem".
Some have said they want to know more about how to help their children learn new skills, especially in computing, and Mr Dorrity suggested that in order to improve further, the school should ensure all parents understand how they can aid their youngsters in information and communication technology.
