A mid-Norfolk nursery is celebrating after receiving high praise in a report from education watchdog Ofsted.

Little Owls Day Nursery, in Toftwood, Dereham, was previously judged by inspectors as outstanding in 2014 and has retained this verdict across the board.

The family-run nursery was rated as outstanding in all measured areas when it was visited by inspectors on March 21.

The report described a 'joint passion and dedication to providing the best possible care and education for all children'.

It said: 'Staff demonstrate exemplary skills in helping children form secure emotional attachments. The youngest children in particular form extremely close bonds with their key person.

'Teaching is excellent. Staff know children very well. They consistently observe and plan motivating learning experiences to help children make rapid progress.

'Children show an excellent level of confidence and independence for their age. They play in a highly effective learning environment. Children's wishes, thoughts and ideas are consistently valued.

'Children's emotional well-being is highly prioritised. Staff are extremely kind and loving. Children show very good familiarity with the routines and are learning to become highly independent from a young age. Busy periods, such as meal times are calm and relaxed. Children are consistently busy and occupied, resulting in excellent behaviour.'

Inspectors were also behind plans to extend children's access to open ended resources in the outdoor play areas.

Owned by directors, Justine and Johnny Watts, the couple have been managing nurseries and after school clubs for the local community since 1989.

The nursery is also home to Norfolk's first dedicated baby nursery, which was officially opened by Norwich City footballer Anthony Pilkington in 2014.

Mrs Watts said: 'We are obviously thrilled and delighted to have retained our outstanding judgement with Ofsted.

'We would both like to thank the amazing staff team for all of their hard work and dedication in helping Little Owls maintain its outstanding judgement.'

Little Owls Day Nursery has 205 children on its roll, aged between 0-4.

In September 2017, the team opened an additional Little Owls nursery in Scarning, where a new baby nursery is set to open in July.