THE Nest nursery in Tidworth have been awarded the highest rating from education chiefs.

The Nest, which is part of the Wellington College Academy Trust, has been graded outstanding in all areas, including leadership and management; teaching, learning and assessment; personal development, behaviour and welfare; and outcomes for children.

The report praised leaders and staff for their “uncompromising commitment to achieving high-quality outcomes for children”.

It said: “Observation, planning and assessment systems are exceptionally rigorous and staff plan activities to challenge and extend children’s learning. Staff ensure that children have a key role in their learning.”

Inspectors said the children demonstrated “high levels of confidence, emotional security and self-esteem”.

And those with special educational needs and/or disabilities were “supported incredibly well through superb partnerships with parents and professionals to ensure they flourish”.

“All children make outstanding progress given what they know when they start,” the report said.

“All children acquire excellent skills that prepare them extremely well for the next stage in their learning, including going to skill.”

Inspectors said safeguarding was "effective" and that leaders and staff had an "excellent" understanding of safeguarding procedures.

Executive Principal of the trust, Dr Mike Milner, said: “The report was a tremendous endorsement of the dedication of the staff who have worked tirelessly to establish the nursery and produce the very highest standards of care for young children and families in the Tidworth area.

“I would particularly like to thank our manager, Clare Robertson, for her incredible hard work and thoroughness.”

Mrs Robertson praised her staff, adding: “I would like to thank all colleagues, past and present, for all their support, care and dedication over the last couple of years. The staff are the backbone of our wonderful nursery.”

The nursery, which is located at Wellington Primary Academy, opened in 2015 and takes children between the ages of two and four years old. The Nest is one of several within the Wellington College family.