The success of education for young children in Bristol is being marked by a series of events across the city.

All Bristol's nursery schools are rated outstanding or good with outstanding features by the learning watchdog Ofsted and this month's activities are aimed at showcasing some of that excellence.

Pupils at Little Hayes Nursery School in Fishponds kicked off the celebrations by holding a tea party for local pensioners, with the filling in the jam tarts made from redcurrents grown in the school's own allotment.

Other produce from the plot was also served at the party for grandparents and residents of the neighbouring Colliers Gardens very sheltered housing scheme. As well as celebrating the school's performance, it also marked the impending retirement of head teacher Soo Rolfe after 13 years.

"I have been very privileged to have been lucky enough to work with such brilliant children, families, colleagues and governors for 13 years at Little Hayes Nursery School," she said.

Another nursery head, Joan Sharp, of Knowle West Early Years Centre, is also retiring this summer after more than 20 years as a head at Filton Avenue, Hartcliffe and Knowle West. Mrs Sharp said nursery schools had originally been set up in deprived areas and in the early decades had had a strong focus on health.

"These days we are much more tuned in to the children's emotional and mental health and to supporting the whole family. It is a much more joined-up approach."

Many of Bristol's nursery schools have taken this a stage further by becoming children's centres, offering a range of services for families under one roof.

One of these is Bristol's first nursery school, in St Werburgh's, which opened in 1931 and last year was visited by Sarah Brown, the Prime Minister's wife.

The city's second nursery school, Ilminster Avenue, was opened in 1936 by the then health minister Ernest Bevin, while the third, Filton Avenue, opened on the eve of the Second World War and has recently been celebrating its 70th birthday.

Among the events that have taken, or are taking, place are: St Werburgh's, Caribbean party; Redcliffe, mark-making event; Ilminster Avenue, arts week; Bluebell Valley, open day; Rosemary, first produce from allotment in newly-refurbished grounds, St Philip's Marsh, African/Caribbean celebration day.

Clare Campion-Smith, Bristol's cabinet councillor for children, said: "This is when children develop the social skills, communication skills and confidence as learners, which will support their achievement as they move on through school."