A nursery in Bolton has been rated 'outstanding' after its latest inspection.

Little Lambs Nursery on Blackburn Road was opened in 2016 by director and manager Carly Morrison, who had previously worked as a deputy head teacher and early years leader.

During the last four years it has converted a garage into an 'imagination station', which allows children to enoy the outdoors in all weathers.

It also offers a range of extracurricular activities including swimming, dancing and learning to grow fruit and vegetables.

The report found it to be 'outstanding' in all areas it was marked on- its quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development and leadership and management.

It said: “Children demonstrate extremely high levels of interest and joy when they arrive at the safe, nurturing and well-resourced environment.

“Children have secure bonds with all staff, and close friendships with peers.

“They share special events, such as birthdays, and listen to each other intently during group storytelling activities.”

Ms Morrison said it was good to have the work she has put in recognised.

She said: "Childhood development and quality education have always been the driving force behind every decision we have made and I am absolutely thrilled that the hard work and dedication of our amazing staff team has been recognised.

“We have worked very hard, in extremely challenging times, to provide the very best care and education for our Little Lambs and we are so fortunate to work with so many amazing children and their families."

The manager added: “Our aim has always been to enrich the lives of all children and provide them with opportunities that they may not otherwise experience.

"We constantly seek out new learning opportunities and real life experiences for the children to engage in.”

The report also praised the response of the nursery to the pandemic.

It said: “Staff kept in regular contact with families during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“This significantly helped support children's and parent's well-being.

“Additionally, this enabled learning to continue at home through staff's creative ideas.

"For example, videos and messages were sent to parents, linking to children's interests and next steps in their development.”