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

The Smile Day Nursery and Out of School Club, at High Biggins, near Kirkby Lonsdale, received a glowing report as they achieved the standard in all areas.

Staff were praised for being “ambitious” and “highly committed” with a “strong drive to promote the best outcomes for the children.”

Ofsted inspector Kate Sparrow commended the “wealth of opportunities” that was also available to the kids.

“Staff have a deep understanding of the impact of the physical environment,” she wrote. “And every effort has been made to create a bright, vibrant and stimulating play space.”

Children were found to “make excellent progress in all areas of learning” and also displayed “wonderful social skills” and “exceptional” language skills.

Owners Michelle and David Ireland said they were “thrilled” with the result.

They praised the staff’s passion, commitment and hard work and that this achievement was a testament to their “genuine love of children”.