Published at 16:04, Thursday, 21 February 2013

A FURNESS nursery is celebrating retaining its top status after watchdog officials heaped praise on its teachers, pupils and governors.

TOP MARKS Headteacher Jackie Drake (left) and assistant Janet Lashmar with some of the pupils at Bram Longstaffe Nursery School on Barrow Island JON GRANGER REF: 50044762B001

Ofsted gave Bram Longstaffe Nursery School in Farm Street an outstanding rating in April 2010 – and the Barrow Island nursery has followed up the achievement with an outstanding rating for the second time in a row, following an inspection last month.

The Ofsted report said: “Children thrive during their time in the nursery school. Every child is known and valued as a unique individual.

“They are happy, confident and thoroughly enjoy their learning.

“The nursery is exceptionally well led by an inspirational headteacher, Jackie Drake. Her drive and determination to ensure that each child has the best possible start underpins the continuing success of the nursery.

“Exceptional teaching by a highly skilled and dedicated staff team contributes significantly to the excellent progress that children make from their starting points.

“Parents also agree the school is very well led and managed and would have no hesitation in recommending the school to others.

Ms Drake, headteacher of the nursery, which has 69 children on its roll, said: “We had an outstanding report last time, but it’s a different Ofsted framework now and we are really pleased we have been able to maintain that standard.

“I’m really pleased there is recognition of our staff team and we have really supportive governors.

“We are really proud of our family here on Barrow Island.”

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