A SOUTH Lakeland nursery has achieved an 'outstanding' grade following an Ofsted inspection.

Joey's Nursery, on Firs Road, Milnthorpe, has grown from a small portable building play group to a successful nursery that accommodates for 74 children.

The inspector praised the nursery, established in 1998 by the Milnthorpe Family Centre, on its staff and their 'excellent questioning and expert ability to steer children’s learning in a different direction.' It says the nursery 'provides tremendous support and extends children’s learning across all areas.'

Nursery manager Katie Smyth said she is thrilled with the result and is thankful to staff for their dedication. She added that the amazing team spirit has had a huge impact on the children's experiences.

"I am bursting with pride as our team of highly dedicated staff always work so hard and Ofsted have recognised all our efforts by awarding us with outstanding." she said.

The charity strives to keep costs low to make childcare affordable for all and the report recognises this with the nursery being praised for teaching the children how to 'reflect on their differences and learn about themselves and the wider world.'

"At Joey's every child is recognised as having individual needs and their own way of learning," said Ms Smyth. "We have a wide range of activities and resources available to the children at all times encouraging them to make independent choices about their own learning and experiences."