A NURSERY has been praised for its work with children in the vital years before they start school.

Independent inspectors found the majority of children at Bedale Day Nursery had achieved high standards by the time they were five years old.

The nursery was also commended for its work on the children's personal and social development, helping them gain to self-confidence and work well together in groups.

The report, by independent inspection body Ofsted, said the quality of teaching and assessment was generally good.

The inspectors said language and literacy teaching was good and the nursery had improved provision since its last inspection in January last year, providing more opportunities for role play and improving the book area.

The report said: "Children listen attentively to stories, songs and rhymes and are able to express themselves well using increasing vocabulary."

Mathematical development was also said to be good, with youngsters solving problems through everyday activities.

The nursery, which offers places to 60 children at Sussex Street, was also praised for its work on physical development.