A nursery that opened just three years ago is officially one of the best in the country after it was rated outstanding by government inspectors.

Teddy Bear Day Care in Queenborough achieved the top ranking from Ofsted after its first-ever inspection in September.

Inspector Cathy Greenwood rated the nursery, which opened in 2019, as outstanding in all four categories of inspection.

"Children behave exceptionally well," she said.

"They are extremely happy and settled; children who are new to the setting run to their key person's open arms for a hug."

She added: "The children are consistently engaged in learning and develop an extremely wide range of skills for the future.

"They make exceptional progress in their physical development; they are extremely keen to practise what they learn and they develop an excellent understanding of the world."

Praising the nursery's management, the inspector said: "The manager works very closely with the qualified staff team to provide children with an ambitious curriculum.

"Staff successfully implement his clear vision to provide a homely, calm, sensory environment that supports all aspects of children's learning and development extremely well."

"Staff have an exemplary knowledge and understanding of their key children's development, which they use to help them make the best possible progress," she added.

Nursery manager Ashley Shiel said he was proud of his staff and the inspection outcome.

"I am extremely proud of my team; it shows their dedication to supporting our next generation," he said.

"We work by a quote from Rita Pierson: 'Every child deserves a champion', and our staff really are their champions, giving every child the best possible start to life."

He added: "The inspector commented on how brilliantly we support children with additional needs and how included they are. The progress they make is absolutely wonderful.

"She could also see how welcoming and homely our nursery is, and she complimented us on the atmosphere and how well we worked as a team.

"I am so proud to work with an amazing team who always strive to give their best."

The nursery, which is based in Queenborough Church Hall, employs 18 members of staff and provides funded early education for two-and three-year-old children.