Ref. 29652-18A NURSERY that cares for children of students and staff at Swindon College has been praised for its high standard of care.

Little Star Nursery, at the North Star campus, won top marks during a Government inspection in February.

Ofsted inspectors also awarded "an aspect of outstanding practice" for the nursery's multi-cultural activities.

Festivals such as Chinese New Year, Diwali and Easter are supported with lively hands-on activities and displays about different cultures.

The nursery opened last year in purpose-built premises with an enclosed garden. It caters for children aged three months to five years and also accepts children of parents not based at the college.

Seven out of the 11 staff have early years qualifications and nine are currently on training programmes

They were found to provide good support for children's emotional and material needs, including individual dietary requirements.

Children enjoy a wide variety of experiences and work at their own pace to become independent.

The only area highlighted for improvement is written records of when children arrive and depart.

Cathy Parker has been acting manager since January, while Katie Pass, the nursery manager, is on maternity leave.

Cathy said: "We are really delighted with the report. It took a lot of work to get the nursery up and running. They really did praise everything we do."

The nursery, which is open 50 weeks a year, still has some spaces available. Parents are welcome to visit. The nursery has an open day on Wednesday, April 7, from 10am to 4pm. For more information call 01793 498430.