THE headmaster of a Truro school has hailed an Ofsted inspector's report on its nursery and reception classes as a "superb reflection of the dedication of their staff".

Jo Mason, head of Polwhele House School, was commenting on a report that delivers a "very good" verdict in all six summary areas personal, social and emotional development; communication, language and literacy; mathematical development; knowledge and understanding of the world; physical development; and creative development.

The overall quality of teaching, leadership, and management and the partnership with parents were all also judged as "very good".

The report comments: "Polwhele House Nursery offers high quality nursery education where children enjoy learning through a varied range of activities.

"Effective teaching helps children make very good progress towards the early learning goals in all six areas of learning."

It adds: "Staff have high expectations of behaviour. They put in place clear structures and routines and consequently children behave very well. Children are confident and independent in their setting. They show high levels of concentration and perseverance at their chosen activities."

The report notes that since its last inspection the Polwhele House nursery has made very good progress, with children now enjoying access to a wider range of tools which they put to good use in activities such as cookery, woodwork and gardening projects. The system for planning has also improved.

The report cites just one area in need of improvement - the opportunities for children to use and express their imagination in art and design and role-play.

Polwhele House Nursery currently has 12 three-year-old pupils and 17 four-year-olds.