Top marks for nursery

STAFF and pupils at Canonbie Nursery are celebrating after receiving top marks following an unannounced inspection. The nursery received the second highest possible mark (very good) from the Care Inspectorate for its leadership; how children play and learn and how children are supported to achieve. After the report was published, headteacher Patrick Callaghan said: “We are over the moon with the result. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank staff who have worked so hard to navigate changes in staff, policies and procedures over the last few years. “I would also like to thank parents: your feedback and partnership working as always was incredible and I am so pleased you feel a major part of our nursery community.” Key messages from inspectors included: Children were cared for in a nurturing environment where they were respected as individuals and offered a wide range of opportunities to learn and develop their skills and interests. Children were happy, confident and actively engaged in play and learning. They were having fun. Staff supported children’s emotional development and responded well to their ideas, ensuring resources were available to extend learning. Strong relationships with families ensured a partnership approach to care. Parents felt well informed and involved in the life of the nursery. They valued the close relationships staff had with their children and praised communication and support. Management and staff demonstrated a strong commitment to continuous improvement, with selfevaluation embedding in practice and an improvement plan informed by systematic quality assurance processes.