A FAMILY-run Bradford nursery that has been operating for over 25 years is celebrating after receiving its third consecutive Good rating by Ofsted.

Daisy Chain Nursery, on Pearson Lane, Bradford, was awarded a Good rating by Ofsted inspectors following a visit on March 22.

When asked to reflect on the nursery's success over its sustained success over 26 years, including two Good Ofsted ratings in 2017 and 2013, Claire Heslop, manager of Daisy Chain Nursey, said: "We believe that every child is unique but we ensure that meet the needs of the group.

"Supporting the needs of the children is why we're here."

She also praised the parents of children in their setting.

"We ensure we meet the needs of the parents too. Our staff works well with parents."

The report acknowledged that staff are "knowledgeable and supportive to parents" and parents described the staff and manager as "friendly, patient and nurturing".

In the report, the inspector wrote: "Staff are enthusiastic, energetic and resourceful. They use every opportunity to engage children in activities and interactions.

"Staff know what children are learning and what they want them to learn next.

"Staff focus the curriculum on developing children's independence, socialising and getting them ready for school.

"Children in this setting are happy, confident and well cared for.

"Staff adapt activities to meet the needs of individual children," but the inspector added: "Staff sensitively recognise when children are ready to move on to a new activity.

In one observation, the inspector wrote: "Children explore texture, colour mixing and mark making. Staff ask children to describe the colours and textures and extend their vocabularies with new words, such as 'gloopy'. Children are eager to join in.

"Children develop a love of books and reading and learn new vocabulary.

"However, sometimes staff focus activities on teaching children letters and writing, rather than developing other skills they will need for writing later, such as speaking and listening.

"Staff model good manners and teach children to say 'please' and 'thank you'. However, at times, staff shorten words and do not model the correct pronunciation."

Ms Heslop said: "We always look at our strengths and weaknesses. We can't rest on our laurels."

Although Ofsted visits can be stressful Ms Heslop said overall the visit was a positive experience.

"It was quite a positive experience. Our inspector put the staff at ease on the day.

"She was very thorough, which can be quite frightening for some, but throughout the day, the staff started to feel relaxed."