Children from Teddy Bear School House Nursery donned smart blue robes and hats in a special ‘graduation’ ceremony last Friday.

Parents and staff watched proudly as the pupils were presented special scrolls, symbolic of the next stage in their lives.

The nursery in Mayola Road, Lower Clapton, prepares the children for primary school, teaching them the alphabet and basic literacy and numeracy skills.

Sheena Roberts, branch manager said: “We focus on building up their confidence and just getting them used to being independent. I think the graduation is important as it gives the children a sense of belonging at the nursery.

“It is a very special day for us and the parents. The children also love putting on the gowns and getting their certificates, it is something they have been talking about for months.”