A nursery pioneering “stimulating learning experiences” has joined an exclusive group of early-learning centres ranked as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.

Woodlands Day Nursery in High Barnet is celebrating the accolade, which puts it in the top 15 per cent of the country for nursery services.

The report praises Woodlands for its “highly inspiring” teaching and the “exceptionally strong bonds” between staff and children.

Among the experiences provided by the nursery to stimulate early learning, children have been encouraged to make their own active volcanoes.

Manager Melina Koulakis praised her staff for their professionalism and dedication and parents for their support.

She said: “We are all committed to giving our children the very best start in life and it is this team work over many years that has made Woodlands outstanding.

“Ofsted making it official is absolutely wonderful but the real reward is seeing our happy, confident children realising their potential every day in nursery.”