Two friends who started their own nursery have seen their hard work pay off after being rated outstanding by Ofsted.

Former colleagues Natalie Diddams and Penny Smitherman set up Wings Nursery in Castle Road, Sittingbourne back in 2017.

Following its success the pair opened a second premises at a large barn in Norton, near Teynham, in November 2020 after spending most of the pandemic renovating the premises.

Now, just over two years later, the duo's additional nursery site has received a glowing Ofsted inspection with it being rated outstanding in every category.

The report, which was published after inspectors visited in January, said the nursery was an "exceptionally warm and welcoming nursery, where staff treat children & their parents like their own family".

The inspector said parents were very complimentary about staff and the nursery, which looks after 45 children, was described as "perfect", "amazing" and "life-changing".

It was also mentioned "the children’s behaviour is exemplary and children rapidly learn the skills that will make them independent and ready for the next stage of their education".

To celebrate, Natalie and Penny held a small party for past and present children and parents with staff to thank everyone for their support and hard work.

The nursery currently has some spaces for children over the age of two, including funded places, from September 2023.

Parents interested can call the nursery on 01795 522309 or email them at wingsnurserynorton@gmail.com.