A NURSERY rated outstanding by Ofsted inspectors has now won a prestigious award.

The Mulberry Bush Montessori Nursery, in Melrose Road, West Mersea, has secured the Good Beginnings bronze award for Autism friendly environments.

It is one of only 15 nurseries in the county to receive this prestigious award in recognition of its high-quality, inclusive early years practice.

It was presented to the team by Karen Forbester and Elizabeth Lester from Essex County Council.

Nursery principal Cheryl Knight, said: “We welcome this award in recognition for the work we do to promote equality and inclusion.

“Nursery Senco Jo Walton is our autism lead and Leander Trunks is the nursery speech and language co-ordinator.

“They mentor all staff to ensure continuity in practice in promoting inclusion by maintaining a safe, positive, welcoming and enabling environment. This reflects the needs of all the children within our setting.

“Asateam we are committed to working in partnership with parents and other professionals and hold shared aspirations for each and every child. They are given the support and opportunities to reach their full potential.”

Mum Rebecca Warren, whose daughter, Lois, attends the nursery, said: “The care and development plan for Lois has been extraordinary.

“Lois has required extra attention and the staff have been wonderful.

We have seen some fantastic progress."