A REVIEWS website for day nurseries has recognised a beloved commuity facility in its top 20.

Happy Faces Playgroup, in Old Reading Road, Sherfield-on-Loddon, was rated as one of top nurseries out of a list of 912 early years establishments in the south east of England.

The top 20 nurseries in the south east received an award from day nurseries reviews site, daynurseries.co.uk, with the award based on the nursery’s reviews from the children’s families and carers.

Nurseries were rated on overall standards, facilities and outside space, learning, resources and equipment, care, activities, staff, management, cleanliness and safeguarding, as well as value for money.

Other criteria for inspection included IT resources, food and nutrition.

Chair of the Happy Faces Playgroup committee, Claudia Phillips, said: “On behalf of everyone at Happy Faces we are absolutely thrilled to win this award and be named in the top 20 nurseries in south east England.

“With a fantastic team of dedicated and enthusiastic staff in the most wonderful village setting, you only have to read the reviews to see how much Happy Faces is loved by pupils and parents alike.

“We have great support from local businesses, like the Wellington Estate, and the community who support our various events.

“In order to maintain a successful playgroup we rely heavily on numbers, so we hope this award will highlight the charm and character of Happy Faces.”

Reviews manager of daynurseries.co.uk, Amanda Hopkins, said: “We would like to congratulate Happy Faces Playgroup on being rated by parents as a top nursery in the south east. Being chosen as one of the best nurseries by family and carers of children that attend the setting is a huge achievement.”

“Reviews of the Top 20 nurseries show these settings offer children stimulating and nurturing environments, which boosts their social and emotional wellbeing and enhances their learning.

“A child’s brain goes through huge changes in the first five years and these formative years impact on their whole life, which is why we celebrate those nurseries, which play an essential role in educating and caring for children.”