The education watchdog has praised a nursery in Astley Bridge after an inspection.

Shining Stars Nursery on Canning Street was visited by the education watchdog in January and was found retain its "good" rating that it also achieved in 2017.

Part of a chain of Shining Starts facilities, including sites in Great Lever, Preston, and Blackburn, the Astley Bridge site’s recent report found that the children “enthusiastically join in activities”.

Inspector Lynn Richards said: “Babies squeal in delight as they walk over soft blocks, giggling as they wobble.

“Staff are close by, and they encourage and remind children how to play safely. Children learn to climb and balance.

READ MORE: Shining Stars Nursery in Great Lever rated 'good' by Ofsted

“Toddlers develop fine motor skills as they carefully place blocks on top of each other.”

Inspector Richards also noted the staff who “skilfully” interact with students to encourage them to count the blocks.

She described the staff as “ambitious for children” as they provide challenging activities.

“Children, including children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, engage well,” she added. “All children make good progress.”

“The setting has worked hard to develop the outdoor area.

"Children enjoy painting with large brushes. They develop gross motor skills.

READ MORE: Little Feet Day Nursery 'requires improvement' say Ofsted

“Their eyes are wide with wonder as they watch bubbles float in the air and then plop onto the floor.

"They touch the bubble gently, waiting in anticipation for it to 'pop'.”

Inspector Richards says that manager have a clear intention to support children so that they are ready when it comes to leaving for school, which they are successful at doing.

It was also noted that they help children for whom English is a second language develop it through books and rhymes.

The facility are also adept at identifying needs. “Clear and sequenced plans are put in place,” Inspector Richards said.

“Communication with other professionals is good. Children with SEND make good progress.”

READ MORE: Ofsted rates Beechwood Nursery in Bromley Cross 'inadequate'

The children’s behaviour was described as “generally good”.

Inspector Richards said: “Children have developed friendships and show care for each other. They share and take turns.

“They are building skills that will support them as they transition to school.”

It was also noted that the safeguarding arrangements at the nursery are “effective”.

Manager at the nursery Abeda Gangat said: "We work very hard as a team to provide the best learning experience for children and I am very proud of our achievements. 

"Ofsted inspectors were very complimentary of our children’s behaviour, the progress they make, and our overall curriculum.

"My colleagues and I work tirelessly to create an atmosphere for the children where they are happy, safe, and progress well.

"We will continue to keep our standards high and keep our wonderful children and parents happy."

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at lewis.finney@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @lewisfinney18.