A North Yorkshire child minding business has been awarded the highest possible grade at a recent OFSTED inspection.

Laura Stephenson, together with her mum Judith, runs Laura's Childminding from their home in Ravensworth. As a registered childminder she is subject to regular inspections by OFSTED, the regulatory authority.

An inspection covers 17 topics in all, including the extent to which children feel safe, adopt healthy lifestyles, and the effectiveness of partnerships. Inspection results can range from 1 (Outstanding) to 4 (Inadequate). As a result of an inspection carried out on 17 December 2009, Laura received a "1" result in all 17 categories.

Commenting on her report, Laura said "I was so pleased and couldn't believe it, but it was nice to know that all our hard work had paid off."

Laura has a Level 3 Qualification and is currently completing a Foundation Degree in Early Years. Both Laura and Mum have First Aid, Safeguarding Children and Food Hygiene Training.

Laura attends regular training and is in the process of becoming a Network Childminder so she can offer government funded places for 3 and 4 year olds. "Its nice to be acknowledged as a Childminder and recognized for the work we do with the Early Years Foundation Stage" she says.

More information can be found on her website

Pictured (L-R): Laura and Judith Stephenson with some of their clients.