An outstanding preschool is rejoicing following a routine visit from Ofsted.

Old London Road Preschool, in Riverside Road, St Albans, achieved the top grade possible and recently threw a gathering to mark their success.

The government regulatory body usually gives advance notice to schools - but for early years providers, inspectors turn up unannounced.

More than 100 family members attended the celebratory picnic in the garden of the Scout hut where the preschool is based.

Janet Audley-Charles said: “The team work tirelessly to achieve the highest level of care and education and we feel this was acknowledged with the ‘outstanding’ result. We are delighted!”

Settings are assessed on how well they meet the needs of the children, how they contribute to pupils’ wellbeing and the effectiveness of leadership and management.

The Ofsted report states that staff: “plan very interesting activities”, are “very welcoming and display strong bonds with children and parents” and “expertly involve parents in children’s education”.

It describes how they “skilfully introduce children to healthy lifestyles” and praises them for nutritious snacks and outstanding experiences outside – particularly daily exercise sessions, which aid physical development.

Mrs Audley-Charles was recognised for being “inspirational and passionate about educating and caring for children”. The inspector explained how children’s outcomes are highly promoted, thanks to her strong culture of reflective practice.

The full report can be viewed online on Ofsted’s website, using the reference 123649.