Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery in St Albans has been rated outstanding by government watchdog Ofsted.

The nursery, based on Orient Close, improved its rating after previously being described as ‘good’.

The inspector said: “Children have outstanding continuous support between home and nursery.

“There are extremely strong partnerships between parents and staff to meticulously tailor practice to the needs and personal requirements of children.

“Children settle swiftly, make friends and show very secure bonds and attachments with staff.”

Proprietor Amanda Griffiths said: “It’s hard work with huge responsibility, but we are running at outstanding level at the moment, and I couldn’t be prouder!

“The children are the most important thing, and in the report it states that ‘children have outstanding opportunities’, which is just perfect as far as I’m concerned.”

Both the Orient Close nursery, and its twin on Ridgmont Road, have been shortlisted for the Herts Ad School Awards’ Nursery of the Year award.