A child minding business that was called inadequate by Ofsted 12 months ago was revisited nearly a year later and praised for being outstanding.

Wendy Whitwell has an “exceptionally strong” partnership with children at her home in Glenfields in Whittlesey, according to inspectors, who added: “As a result they are highly confident and thoroughly enjoy their time in the setting.”

The childminder organises the setting and the resources extremely well, the report continues and says that: “The childminder’s passionate and enthusiastic approach to teaching motivates children remarkably well, encouraging them to be keen and active learners.”

The business, which has been running since 2000, looks after 28 youngsters with the help of two assistants.

The report says Mrs Whitwell is: “Highly skilled in knowing when to intervene and when to leave children to play and explore for themselves.

“The childminder carries out regular observations. These are recorded online and shared weekly with parents along with photographs and details of activities,” the report by Inspector Veronica Sharpe says.

“Children thrive in the nurturing care of the childminder and her assistants. Relationships are exceedingly warm and affectionate. Consequently children feel emotionally secure and show a strong sense of belonging.”

The setting was threatened with closure 18 months ago following complaints from neighbours about noise when Mrs Whitwell and her husband Andy applied for retrospective planning permission.

The application, however, was supported by Whittlesey town councillors.