A NURSERY in Kidderminster has received two thumbs up from Ofsted after achieving a 'good’ inspection rating.

The Railway Children’s Child Care Centre, adjacent to the Severn Valley Railway station, was praised for offering a high level of education provision, exemplary behaviours and attitudes, and strong leadership and management after inspectors visited in December.

It was previously rated 'outstanding' in its 2014 inspection.

The nursery has been in operation since the mid-80s but recently underwent a management reshuffle following the retirement of its founder Ann Whitby in September.

In a follow-up inspection report, the facility’s staff were applauded for "making learning fun" and encouraging a healthy lifestyle whilst parents reported a "high level of satisfaction" with the facility.

Children were found to be are engaged, listen intently, and "show a love for books".

However, in order to recoup the nursery’s top rating, management have pledged to extend upon the children's mathematical learning and offer more highly challenging activities for the centre’s most able children.

New manager Sarah Poole was appointed on September 4 and since then staff were found to "have embraced the changes and have thoroughly supported the new management" for their latest rating.

The nursery enjoyed a grade two award against the new Ofsted criteria that was launched at the end of last year.

“Whenever a new manager starts in a setting, it can be hard for staff but I have to say that all the staff at the Railway Children have been utterly amazing and are dedicated to caring for and giving the best to each and every child who attends,” said Sarah.

“I have had a positive reaction to the changes I have made from both staff and parents and in the four months since starting to get a good rating from Ofsted is the icing on the cake.

“We are looking forward to 2020 with an excellent staff team, a dedicated committee and can’t wait to welcome lots of new children and families through our door.”

The child care centre will be hosting an open day on February 1. For more information, call 01562 740182.