“Exceptionally kind” and courteous children are nurtured and supported at an outstanding nursery.

Charley Barley's Nursery in Brighton was given the highest Ofsted rating following an inspection in August.

The nursery, in Stanford Avenue, was previously rated good.

Inspectors praised staff’s meticulous planning for children’s learning and development, the leadership team’s hard work to deliver the “highest quality” standards, the nursery’s “exemplary” teaching and the excellent behaviour of children.

“Children benefit from an exceptional start to their learning in this homely, nurturing nursery. Staff enable children to feel emotionally secure from the moment they join the nursery,” the report said.

“Leaders have worked extremely hard to train staff in helping to build children's emotional resilience. Staff are highly skilled in using extensive strategies to help children explain how they are feeling. Staff gently guide and support children and use creative methods such as visual prompts and stories to help children understand their different emotions.

“For example, toddlers confidently explain what makes them sad or angry and understand how this feels. Older children are competent in finding ways to help them feel calmer and manage this well with gentle support from staff. This strong focus on supporting children's emotional development contributes fully towards the exemplary levels of behaviour seen throughout the nursery.”

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Inspectors said children are “exceptionally kind, courteous and highly respectful of others” and that staff training is given the “highest” priority.

“This results in an extremely harmonious environment where children play, learn and explore happily together,” the report said.

“Leaders and staff ensure every child is valued, respected and included. If children need additional help, this is provided instantly. Staff's engagement with children is excellent. Babies develop the confidence to explore freely and snuggle into their key persons when they need some extra reassurance. Older children develop a wealth of skills and knowledge to equip them well for future learning and starting school.

“The nursery curriculum offers a wealth of opportunities for children to learn about themselves and the wider world. Staff empower children to become confident, articulate and competent learners. Children's thirst for gaining knowledge is evident in the way they interact with staff, retain new information and confidently ask questions to find out more.”