Two nurseries, both rated as outstanding by Ofsted, are to merge together after a decision by school governors.

Church Hill Nursery School in Walthamstow and Low Hall Nursery have voted to go ahead with the joining of the two schools, known as a hard federation.

Low Hall Nursery, in Low Hall Lane, faced problems last year after it failed to attract enough students.

Headteacher Claire Toberman resigned from the school in 2013.

The school survived the turbulence but linked with the nearby nursery in Church Hill for help.

Since Mrs Toberman left both nurseries have been run by Executive Headteacher Sandra Campbell.

Now, the governing bodies decided the schools will both benefit from making the link official and pooling funds, staff and resources.

Sandra Campbell will be headteacher for both schools but both nurseries will keep their individual identity and will be graded by Ofsted separately.

Parents, staff, unions and community stakeholders were all consulted, according to the school.

Pauline France, Chair of Governors for Church Hill Nursery School said: “This gives us the opportunity to maintain our shared focus on high quality early years education and playful learning for young children in Walthamstow.”

Dan Edelstyn, Chair of Governors for Low Hall Nursery School said: “The combined creativity of the two organisations will nurture our children and give them a great start in life.”