An early learning centre has been rated “outstanding” by a government regulatory body.

Grasshoppers Day Nursery in St Albans received recognition from Ofsted as one of the top centres in the country, achieved by just 19 percent of early year’s providers, sparking celebration amongst parents, children and staff. 

Grasshoppers’ manager, Jennifer Neville, said: “We couldn’t be more proud and delighted that the inspector recognised how ambitious we are for our children, and that she described our relationship with parents as an exceptionally close partnership. 

“This teamwork has made our nursery outstanding and we will continue to strive to make it even better.”

During the Ofsted report, the inspector noted that Grasshoppers staff fully challenged children in their mathematical development and used mealtimes to discuss the importance of good nutrition and healthy lifestyles.

The Ofsted inspector said: “With staff support, children rapidly learn the necessary skills ready for their next stage in learning and eventual move on to school,” 

Grasshoppers St. Albans Day Nursery is part of the employee-owned company, the Childbase Partnership, which has 41 day nurseries in the South of England.