A NURSERY has been rated as outstanding after a surprise inspection.

Young Sussex Nursery on Dyke Road, Brighton, was awarded outstanding in all areas.

The nursery, which looks after 111 children, was told it “required improvement” in 2013 but Ofsted said the nursery now had highly skilled staff, extremely well supported children and highly successful management.

Julia Cross, group manager at Young Sussex, said: “An outstanding Ofsted rating is testament to our high standards and our passion to excel.

“I am delighted that the staff have received the recognition they deserve and am very proud of our children, whose behaviour was described by Ofsted as exemplary.”

The nursery was previously rated outstanding in 2011. She added: “To receive two outstanding inspection reports is a great reflection of life at Young Sussex Nursery.

“This is the nursery’s second outstanding rating, an accolade that only 14 out of 336 nurseries and childminders in Brighton and Hove have achieved since 1993.

“It is a great tribute to the staff for their daily commitment to the children’s wellbeing and development.

“Ofsted said that children at Young Sussex get the very best start to learning and making outstanding progress, which helps them to prepare exceptionally well for school.”

Inspector Jacqueline Walter said: “Children are making outstanding progress. Behaviour is exemplary. Children show mature skills in identifying and expressing their feelings.

“All staff keep the children safe within the nursery, taking all positive steps to minimise risks.

“Parents comment that they are extremely happy with the service.”

The family run business also has nurseries in Portland Road, Hove, and Upper Shoreham Road, Shoreham.