A Bristol nursery school where "creativity is put at the heart of learning" has been judged outstanding by Ofsted.

The education watchdog said Speedwell Nursery School provided an inspirational environment and made exceptionally good use of its excellent outdoor accommodation to stimulate children to learn.

"Speedwell is an outstanding nursery school where children thrive and do exceptionally well in both their academic and personal development," the inspectors reported.

The school in Speedwell Road is one of three Bristol early years centres to be given the highest rating by Ofsted in the past month.

Lead inspector Diane Wilkinson, in a letter to the 73 children on the school's roll, said: "We think your nursery is excellent and are delighted that you and your parents agree."

Among the points highlighted in the Ofsted report were:

● Highly innovative curriculum

● Very skilled teaching staff

● Excellent support for children with learning or language needs

● Behaviour is outstanding …children work and play especially well together

● A very happy and harmonious community

● Outstanding partnerships with parents and a number of other schools and agencies

Head teacher Gillian Lowe said: "The whole school is obviously delighted. We are especially pleased that the whole team approach and emphasis placed on creativity was recognised as a key strength in supporting children's learning."