Nursery praised for fun outings

Staff at a Perth nursery have been praised for taking their children on regular outings following a surprise inspection.

The team at Footprints Nursery on Glasgow Road have been commended in a report written by the Care Inspectorate after its staff paid a visit in November.

“The service makes very good use of the local and wider community,”its inspection report said.“Children benefit from regular outings and activities to further their knowledge and understanding.

“Recent activities have included horse riding and a visit on the train to HMS Discovery, all of which had been in direct response to children’s interests.

“Staff clearly knew the children very well and used what they know to support children in their play and interactions. They enjoyed positive, nurturing relationships. This was confirmed through our observations and by the parents we spoke to.

“Parents told us that they had regular meetings with staff to share children’s current interests, achievements and development needs. Parents particularly favoured the opportunities and ideas for home learning through homework sheets and take home bags.

“Staff told us that they felt well supported by the manager whom they found approachable.

“The staff team worked well together and shared responsibility for the day-to-day running of the service. We found the core staff team to be well trained and reflective practitioners.”

Inspectors decided to award the nursery‘good’grades for its qualities of care and support as well as its management and leadership following the visit.