A nursery has been given top marks by Ofsted due to its “exceptionally nurturing and inclusive setting”.

Wiggles Playgroup in Sheerness has been scored “Outstanding” for a second time by the education watchdog.

The inspector said in their report: “Children arrive highly excited for their day in this exceptionally nurturing and inclusive setting.

“Staff warmly greet children, who they know very well. From the moment children start, staff work tirelessly to understand each individual.

“Children quickly form strong bonds with staff, secure in the knowledge that they are truly understood and valued.”

Wiggles has been open for eight years and has supported hundreds of families during that time.

Vicki McManus, who opened the business at The Delacey Hall in 2015, said: “I am incredibly proud of the staff and their hard work, especially over the past few years during Covid and more recently with the threat of having to close because the licence on our existing building will not be renewed after 2025.”

Earlier this year Vicki's landlord, the learning disability support charity East Kent Mencap, made the "difficult decision" not to renew the playgroup's 10-year-lease as it needs the property for its own members.

But there is positive news on the horizon with Vicki revealing: “Wiggles is currently applying for planning on a new site and is looking for sponsorship to secure the funding to build a new provision on the outskirts of Sheerness which we hope will be open in September.”

In the inspector’s full Ofsted report, they added staff “provide children with an abundance of exciting, purposefully planned learning experiences that captivate their interests and promote a love of learning”

The inspector said: “They make excellent use of books, rhymes and meaningful interactions to develop and extend children's use of language.

“Staff ask well-considered questions to encourage children to think about and describe what they see and experience.”

Since opening Vicki has installed new doors, a new kitchen and a new heating system in the building which is leased to East Kent Mencap by Swale council.

To see the full Ofsted report enter Wiggles Playgroup into the Ofsted website.