PARENTS got a surprise when their children appeared in gowns and hats for their nursery school’s graduation ceremony.

Northfleet Nursery School in London Road bid farewell to children who are leaving to start primary school in September.

The ceremony, held for the fourth year running, saw more than 50 children don hats and gowns to celebrate their time at the nursery in front of their families.

Headteacher Panna Nagar said: “It was a fantastic day, that’s the only way I can describe it.

“The parents did not know that we had arranged gowns and hats, they all gasped when they saw their child. All the children looked so sweet.

“After we had presented the scrolls, families enjoyed a traditional tea and spent time talking to staff about the child’s time with us and all they’d achieved.

“Parents have said they will keep their graduation photo to put alongside future ones, it’s something they will treasure for the rest of their lives.”

The nursery school has 90 children, and provides free nursery education for children aged from three to five years.