Staff and children at a nursery in Nottinghamshire are celebrating after receiving a hat-trick of outstanding reports.
On May 1, Ruddington Day Nursery turns 20 years old, but celebrations have started early with the news of their third consecutive Outstanding report from Ofsted this month.
Owner, Anne Prescott took over the nursery in 1999, and since then the business has gone from strength to strength.
A mother herself, Ms Prescott said that the nursery is like a family, between parents, children and staff.
She added: "Working in childcare is such a big responsibility - we are looking after parents' most treasured possessions.
"Over the two decades we have operated, parents have come back with their second and third children, and have got to know our loyal and reliable staff.
"This third outstanding really is something to shout about, and I'm so happy for the staff who have worked so hard, they are an amazing team."
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The inspection at the nursery took place on March 29, 2019, and was carried out by Jan Hughes who explored both the indoor and outdoor areas.
The report said: "All children flourish within this nursery and they develop incredibly strong bonds with staff."
It added that: "The quality of teaching and interactions between the staff and children are remarkable. Staff have a secure knowledge of children's next steps in learning which they precisely identify through high quality assessments."
On the day, Ms Prescott added that the children had been planting an apple tree, and were guided in how to dig the hole big enough, pointing out what they could find in the soil.
"I think the inspector was very impressed," she said.
Ruddington Day Nursery was one of the first to introduce forest schooling over 10 years ago, allowing children the freedom to roam the outdoors, learning life skills through nature.
The nursery has a converted outdoor space complete with a fire pit, outdoor cabin as well as a nearby forest that is often explored.
There are currently 78 children registered at the nursery, looked after by 24 staff.
Parents are warned that their children may not always come back in clean clothes, but many have chosen the nursery for its alternative ethos.
Mrs Prescott added: "Children learn to use tools, cook, climb trees.
"There is a tendency to wrap children in bubble wrap and never get the chance to think for themselves.
"This style of learning teaches independence and assess their own risks, in a controlled environment.
"It's a time for them to enjoy their childhood."
The nursery aims to provide a foundation that will help prepare children for school, by encouraging independence and not "forced learning".
Ms Prescott said she hoped she would maintain the standard of the nursery through continued reflection, feedback, and always looking for new ways to improve.
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