Celebrations as two Wolverhampton nurseries rated outstanding by Ofsted for the fifth time in a row

Inspectors who visited Eastfield Nursery in March found that children 'really do bloom and grow' at the school, arriving 'happily each day with huge smiles ready to enjoy the well-planned activities on offer'.

Ofsted said the nursery's indoor and outside learning environment is 'superbly organised', there is an 'ambitious curriculum' and staff are 'expert, enthusiastic storytellers who bring traditional and modern tales alive'.

Learning about the natural world was described as an important part of the curriculum at Eastfield Nursey, and inspectors said the school has its own woodland oasis where children get a close look at living things.

Meanwhile, when they visited Bilston Nursery School last November they found that 'the buzz of learning is evident in every part of the nursery', with governors and school leaders 'unwavering in setting the highest standards and expectations of themselves, staff and children', and that 'staff plan high-quality learning experiences'.

Staff were said to be 'completely in tune with children’s feelings, needs and next steps for learning' and inspectors said all children, including those with special educational needs, 'learn to know and manage themselves well and make sense of the world around them', meaning they are 'fully prepared for primary school'.

Emma Smith, executive headteacher of Bilston and Eastfield Nursery Schools, said: "I am thrilled that Ofsted has continued to recognise the quality of education and care that the children receive at Eastfield and Bilston Nursery Schools.

“Both schools are very special places for children to learn and having this recognised by Ofsted for the fifth consecutive time is something everyone associated with the school is very proud of. I feel honoured and privileged to lead such a fantastic team of hard working and committed people who strive to provide the best for every child.”

Councillor Chris Burden, Wolverhampton Council's cabinet member for children, young people and education, said it was an 'incredible' achievement.

"I would like to congratulate Emma and the teams at both Eastfield and Bilston Nursery Schools for their hard work and dedication which has made this possible," he added.