CHILDREN are getting outstanding care at a Swindon nursery, a Government watchdog has judged.

The Little Stars nursery has been rated as outstanding in all categories by Ofsted.

Inspectors have described staff as “sensitive adults” and said children blossom under their care.

“We are all very proud of the outstanding judgement from Ofsted,” said deputy nursery manager Kelly Stoneham.

“We have worked extremely hard to achieve this result. We pride ourselves in the partnerships we share with our parents and carers and the excellent care and education the staff provide to children on a daily basis.”

The nursery, which has 89 children, is based at the Swindon College site in North Star. It serves the students and staff of the college and the surrounding community.

Inspectors were pleased with the way children’s progress is regularly checked and recorded in individual folders.

The report said: “Robust systems ensure children are cared for by people who are suitable to work with children.

“Children are safeguarded exceedingly well.

“Any minor disagreements are immediately nipped in the bud. The nursery is a busy hive of industrious play.”

The nursery was also praised for having its own vegetable garden.

“They also enjoy planting and growing vegetables and herbs, the children predict what the seeds will grow into,” said the report.

The only criticism was the outside play area needs to be developed to offer children more freedom to explore.

The nursery was given an outstanding mark for: overall effectiveness, leadership and management and quality and standards.

“All the staff at Little Stars nursery make up our highly motivated and enthusiastic team,” said Ms Stoneham.

“According to Ofsted, ‘The involvement of staff in such processes contributes to them feeling valued. They speak enthusiastically of their enjoyment at working in this nursery.’”

Inspectors said children regular practised counting during their routine activities, including deciding how much cutlery is needed to set the table.