Macduff nursery does well in Care Inspectorate evaluation
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A MACDUFF nursery has been praised in an inspection report.
The Care Inspectorate's report hailed the nursery, within Macduff Primary School, for its child protection processes, cleanliness and great outdoor space.
Councillor Gillian Owen, Chairwoman of Aberdeenshire Council’s Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “I have been really impressed with the feedback from the parents and carers who told inspectors staff are friendly, approachable, and the nursery is a secure environment where children’s learning thrives.
"This is great feedback which I hope gives nursery staff a real boost.”
The report, conducted last September, also featured anonymous submissions by parents of children at the nursery.
One parent said: "My child loves everything about their time at nursery. They were made most welcome and at ease during difficult Covid circumstances.
"There are opportunities to speak with the nursery group leader about their progress and discuss any concerns, of which I have none. These phone calls have been much appreciated."
Another parent said: "All staff are excellent I've never had any concern for my child's welfare or learning.
"My child has come on a lot since attending Macduff, their counting, ABC's and friendships have excelled."
Some areas, however, were highlighted as "areas for improvement".
The report found that chances to engage quieter children were sometimes missed and that resources could be arranged in a more interesting way.
Inspectors also said a quiet area was needed where children could rest or sleep comfortably, which staff say is in the works.
Some parents highlighted issues around communications with the nursery.
One consultee said: "Since the changes due to Covid-19 restrictions there have been far less updates on my child's progress both verbally and via the learning journey - left not quite knowing what they have been doing no idea about learning goals or changes in interest."
Another parent said: "If I had to be picky on things I'd like to see improved, it would be nice to get more feedback on what they're up to in the setting via the App and maybe more work sent home.
"But overall I wouldn't put my child anywhere else, I can relax knowing that my child is in a safe, secure and nurturing environment and I couldn't recommend Macduff nursery highly enough."
Overall, the report and most parents were positive about the nursery.
The inspection report said: "Staff welcomed children into the service, supporting them to feel relaxed and accepted.
"Their interactions with children were generally encouraging and positive. Children were supported to be independent and to express their choices and opinions."
Education Committee vice chairwoman Councillor Rosemary Bruce said: “It is pleasing to see inspectors acknowledged the clean and well-maintained environment, the rigorous cleaning procedures in place, and the risk assessments to help minimise the possibility of Covid-19 infection amongst children and staff.”
