A REGISTERED childminder has received top grades following an Ofsted inspection.

The service provided by Carol Day, of The Leas, Darlington, was described as outstanding by inspectors, who monitored her work during a three-hour assessment.

The areas examined are similar to those at nurseries and schools.

These included whether Miss Day helped the children to be healthy, protected them from harm and provided a safe environment; helped them to achieve and enjoy what they did and helped them to make a positive contribution. Her organisational skills were also assessed.

She achieved an outstanding mark - the highest level - in all these areas, which led to an overall outstanding grade.

Miss Day cares for nine children at her home and provides full-time and part-time care, including before and after school sessions.

The children she looks after range in age from three months up to youngsters in their first year of secondary school.

She said: "I have been a registered childminder since 1995. I was previously a social worker, but I fancied working with younger children."

Miss Day completed an NVQ level three in child care and education and then branched out.

"I take the children on outings, both in and outside Darlington," she said.

"I also arrange activities involving creative play, natural play and educational toys - just like you would expect from a nursery and out-of-school care."