HAPPY Days Day Care Nursery, based at the former St Mary's Prep School in Rochford, has been credited with a Pre-School Learning Alliance Award, topping the recent Ofsted inspection and highlighting the care and attention provided for children of all ages and abilities.

Presenting the award to proprietor Linda Bush, district councillor George Price said: "Since it opened three years ago, Happy Days has been deservedly recognised for its facilities and for the flexible way staff cater for busy working parents.

Environment

"Children enjoy a safe, learning environment with plenty of space for indoor and outside play and this award confirms all that is best in local child care and pre-learning education."

St Mary's Prep School, a former country house, was also run by Linda Bush and when it closed a few years ago, she decided to use her qualifications and experience to set up Happy Days for parents and children in Tenbury and the Teme Valley.

With six qualified staff behind her, including nursery supervisor, Monica Boucher, 30 children from tiny tots to pre-school age, attend the nursery. The after-school club for older children is also very popular.

She said: "Parents expect the best for their children and that's what we aim for. We work flexible hours to suit busy parents; we can also arrange to collect and return children if required.

"We have ample space and staff with room to comfortably exp-and. We are keen to take more children as we grow," she added.