There were smiles all round at Devonshire Day Nursery, in Chiswick, after news spread of receiving an 'outstanding' rating from Ofsted.

Children and staff at the nursery, in Bennett Street, gave the thumbs up after being named one of the best day nurseries in the country, with the top rating only achieved by 12% of early years providers.

The success will be celebrated with a garden party on June 13.

Manager Dee Townsend praised her team for their dedication, and parents for their unfailing support, generally, and on the inspection day when they sought out the inspector to speak enthusiastically about the nursery.

“I am so proud of this achievement which recognises our commitment to providing each and every one of our children with the best possible start in life and a smooth transition to mainstream schooling and life-long learning," she said.

The nursery and pre-school is open to children aged six-weeks to five and provides learning through play programmes in four rooms as well as a garden where young ones can plant and harvest herbs.

Ms Townsend was singled out for praise in the Ofsted inspectors’ report for her leadership and passion for continual pursuit of excellence.

The nursery, which scored 'outstanding' in every area of the report, was described as delivering exemplary teaching and offering stimulating play activities.

Staff were recognised for being excellent for understanding all the children's needs, from babies who have their own garden, to pre-schoolers who take it in turns to be safety spies completing check lists and learning about their own safety.

The inspectors said: “Children have a lovely time at the nursery and make superb progress.

"Staff provide an extremely positive, inspiring environment, which captures children's interests and entices them to learn and to initiate their own ideas.

“As a result, children are confident, secure and very well prepared for the next stage in their development."

Devonshire Day Nursery open day and garden party will be held on Saturday June 13.