Big school beckons for youngsters “graduating” from Nuffy Bear nursery at Nuffield health and fitness centre in St Albans.

For their graduation party, children were treated by a visit from Zoo Lab, who gave them the opportunity to hold African snails, lizards and spiders.

Manager Rebecca Moore explained: “As the summer term is coming to the end some of the children at Nuffy Bear have been busy preparing for their exciting transition to school.

“While school can be a daunting experience we like to ensure it is an experience that our children are ready for.

“The children have enjoyed visits from their new teachers and they have loved showing off their nursery friends and toys.

“At Nuffy Bear we have supported the children in becoming school ready and we strongly believe that our show and tell sessions, swimming, French and football lessons have all contributed towards their confidence and self-belief.”