A school has been handed a national award in recognition of its work in supporting children with nurture groups.

Laurance Haines Primary School, in Vicarage Road, Watford, received the Marjorie Boxall Quality Mark Award from national charity the Nurture Group Network.

It comes after its dedication to supporting its pupils through nurture groups, taking in a number of different needs and enabling children to develop effectively.

Kevin Kibble, chief executive of the Nurture Group Network, said: “Laurance Haines has evidenced its success in running an outstanding Nurture Group, and the beneficiaries of their hard work every day are the children attending the school, their families and the wider community.

“Our standards to achieve this award are exacting and many congratulations are due to the staff and pupils at the school.”

The school has put a great deal of emphasis on the importance of nurturing and was the first in the country to receive the National Nurturing Schools Award.

Judges noted how it demonstrated exemplary practice in embedding a nurturing culture and enhancing teaching and learning by focusing on emotional needs and development in a whole-school environment.

Head teacher James Roach said: “The nurture room has unlocked pathways into our school for children and families alike.

“Through this, we have managed to foster genuine partnerships. I am very proud of all we are achieving here at Laurance Haines.”