HIGHFIELD Community Pre-School has been classed as outstanding in all areas by Ofsted.

Inspectors said the Drewry Road nursery is highly effective in meeting the needs of all children exceptionally well.

They said the nursery ensured children are very well prepared for the next stage of their learning when moving on to primary school.

The nursery, based on the site of the former Highfield Middle School since 2004, has improved its rating from an overall ‘good’ during the last Ofsted inspection in 2012.

Pre-School manager, Shazia Mehrban, said the staff worked incredibly hard throughout the year to support the children through play, and provide them with a strong foundation to build on.

She added: “There are meticulous systems for monitoring the quality of teaching, and staff have consistently high expectations of what they and children can achieve.”

She praised the Highfield Community Pre-School’s voluntary committee for supporting and enhancing the nursery, and having a strong partnership with staff.

Councillor Abid Hussain, whose Keighley Central ward includes the Pre-School, was delighted to hear about the report.

He said: “The children are having a good start, which will benefit them when they go to primary school. They are making great achievements from the beginning.”

Ofsted inspectors praised staff for their “sharply-focused” assessments of children’s development, based on ongoing observations and discussions with parents, which helped children learn progressively. Inspectors added: “Parents are superbly informed about their children’s progress, and there are outstanding arrangements for encouraging them to support learning at home.

“Children are active, inquisitive and independent learners, and there is a highly accessible, rich and vibrant environment.

“Children are happy, enjoy what they are doing and show outstanding levels of confidence and self-esteem. Behaviour is exemplary.”

Inspectors praised the Pre-school’s management and “inspirational” leadership.