A NURSERY has risen two grades to become ‘good’ after an Ofsted inspection.

Stepping Stones Nursery in Hoddlesden was given the rating after being visited last month.

Results, published this week, praised staff in a glowing assessment of the Hoddlesden Road nursery.

In her report, inspector Sue Rae said: “Parent partnerships are strong. Parents are involved in children’s assessment and learning, which ensures that children’s needs are well met.

“Teaching is good because staff have good knowledge of how young children learn.

“This means they plan a range of activities that help children to make good progress in their learning and development.

“Babies and children's emotional wellbeing is well promoted.

“Staff sensitively help children to form secure attachments and this enables children to develop and increase their confidence and independence.

“There are robust safeguarding policies and procedures in place which are fully understood by everyone in the team.

“Children are therefore safeguarded well at the nursery.”

It comes after the nursery, which this year celebrates its 20th anniversary, was rated ‘inadequate’ after an inspection last August.

Ofsted pointed then to children’s wellbeing and safety being compromised and some staff not understanding the consequences of failing to maintain accurate records of accidents or injuries to children.

Manager Kelly Ward, who has run the nursery for 10 years, said the judgement last year was not a true reflection of the nursery.

She said: “We are really happy with the outcome of the inspection.

“The downgrading last year came after a minor incident involving a former member of staff.

“All our staff are fully committed to providing excellent care for all our children.”