A Harpenden nursery is celebrating its third consecutive "outstanding" report by Ofsted.

Following its Ofsted inspection in January, Batford Nursery School has been awarded "outstanding" effectiveness for the third time in a row.

Deputy Headteacher, Sarah Hedges said: "We were thrilled with the result. It recognises our strengths as a nursery".

The nursery, which looks after 120 children aged three to four, was assessed on the achievement of pupils, quality of teaching, behaviour and safety of pupils, and leadership and management.

Mrs Hedges said: "It was a very thorough two days. The inspector spent a great deal of time observing and talking to the management team."

She was happy with the visit and how pupils welcomed the lead inspector, Susan Thomas-Pounce.

She said: "The children got on really well with the inspector and loved having her with them in class."

The report praised the staff and children alike, stating: "Staff are very focused on each individual’s needs and aspirations and this is why the more able children and those who find learning difficult all do exceptionally well.

"The children’s outstanding progress in language, literacy and numeracy together with their highly developed personal and social skills prepares them very successfully for their next school and later life."

Since announcing the results, Batford Nursery has received messages of congratulations from parents and the local community. Plans are being made to arrange celebrations with staff and pupils.