YOUNGSTERS at a Darlington nursery have set up a florist's business in their classroom.

The children at George Dent Nursery have been playing shop while learning about science, mathematics, language and creativity.

Parents provided many of the flowers and plants for the business and the children created their own displays, bouquets and gift tags.

The youngsters, who are aged three to five, visited a garden centre to find out more about taking orders and selling flowers.

The children will also be trying their hand at running a fruit and vegetable stall.

Education inspectors recently praised the work of the nursery school and gave it national recognition.

The nursery has been included in the chief inspector of schools' annual report, following last year's successful Ofsted inspection.

Headteacher Pat Pennington received a letter from Ofsted chief inspector David Bell praising the pupils, staff and governors for their work.

Mrs Pennington said: "We are delighted to be one of the specially selected schools.

"To remain successful, an essential ingredient is to constantly review our practice and identify ways in which we think we can improve the learning opportunities we offer our children. I feel we have achieved this and more."