A MINEHEAD-based nursery has been judged good overall in a Government inspection - after just six months in business.

West Somerset Community College's Acorns Nursery previously operated as a crêche facility.

But after coming under the spotlight for the first time since becoming a registered nursery last September, Ofsted inspectors have given it the second highest rating.

Provision was judged to be good because children made good progress thanks to the skill of staff in extending their language and encouraging problem solving through play and activities.

The inspection team also found that children co-operated and developed good relationships because sensitive staff used positive behaviour management.

Youngsters were said to be kept safe and secure through good teamwork, while strong partnerships between staff and parents ensured children's individual needs were well met.

Inspectors concluded the nursery was not yet outstanding because staff did not always fully support children in moving resources around the environment to use activities in their own way.

The 30 children on roll, including those with special educational needs, were said to make good progress in all areas of their development.

West Somerset Community College principal Gaynor Coomber said the inspectors' comment that a strong partnership with parents ensured that staff had a good understanding of each child's uniqueness summed up what was so special about the nursery.

"We are delighted with the report and feel that it is a positive reflection of the hard work and dedication of nursery staff and the strong partnerships they maintain with parents which enables them to provide the best possible care," she said.

In addition to providing childcare provision, the nursery is also a training centre for students studying childcare and education.

Mrs Coomber said the report contained many positive comments, highlighting the high quality resources and the access to college facilities, such as the farm and restaurant.

And she said inspectors had particularly complimented the staff's ability to encourage and develop children's language skills.

"The staff at the nursery are trained in language for babies and use sign language and visual aids to create an inclusive environment in which children of all abilities can take an active role," said Mrs Coomber.

"Their promotion of equality and diversity and the provision made for addressing the needs of all children as individuals have also been commended.

"The governors are delighted with the report as it reflects the breadth, depth and quality of education provided at the nursery in the short time it has been open."