Strathblane Primary awarded first-class report card from education inspectors

Strathblane Primary School Nursery has been awarded a glowing report following an unannounced inspection in January.

The nursery, which accommodates up to 20 children from three years to those not yet at primary school, was deemed‘very good’in both quality of care and support, and quality of management and leadership.

A key strength noted by was the‘warm, caring, safe, nurturing and respectful environment’that children experienced, which allowed development of very good relationships with staff and friendships with the other children.

Children enjoyed their experience and were enthusiastic about activities offered, eager to joined in and keen to share learning.

Staff recognised the importance of working with parents and were skilled at building positive relationships with all family members.

This helped staff work together with parents and carers to support children in their development, and the child centred approach of staff valued children as individuals, promoted their rights and ensured their needs were met.

The report also detailed that children enjoyed playing outdoors and the service promoted children’s health and well-being very well.

Inspectors observed there were many opportunities for children to learn about healthy lifestyles, and they planted and grew vegetables which were used to make soup for snack time, were involved in recycling activities, had daily access to outdoor play and encouraged in good habits such as tooth brushing and hand washing.

As a result, children could talk confidently about healthy food and had a good understanding of why they washed their hands.

It was noted the service had started to operate extended days which offered the option of full days for children, and staff worked well as a team and shared the ethos about the continued improvement.

No recommendations were made but suggestions included developing use of the‘happy hut’in the garden with children, develop communication within the nursery and wider community and to further develop and enhance numeracy within the nursery. When ideas were shared with other services, feedback should be gathered about how they influence the wider learning community.

Nursery head Sharon Cassidy said:“The inspection highlighted the hard work of the staff team in providing motivating learning experiences in a nurturing nursery environment.

“I am delighted the dedication of staff and their commitment to the children and families of Strathblane Nursery class, has been recognised.”