Leadership at Thurso day-care centre branded ‘weak’ after failing to conduct PVG checks
Failure to follow recruitment processes at a nursery in Thurso had “compromised the welfare and safety” of children, a snap inspection has revealed.
Leadership at Playden Nursery, which provides day care for up to 20 children from the age of two up until primary school age, was branded as “weak” by the Care Inspectorate after an unannounced visit on Wednesday, January 15 and Thursday, January 16.
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During the two-day visit, one inspector spoke with children, staff and management, while observing practice and daily life at the centre.
Despite observations that children were “happy and engaged in their play” and “actively led”, inspectors said that children’s experiences at the Playden had been “substantially” affected after the provider had allowed two staff members to work in the service without PVG (Protection of Vulnerable Groups) checks being carried out.
It was also noted that the provider had not implemented effective risk assessments to support the decision to employ more staff, and creating the potential for “children to be placed at significant harm”.
Upon the Care Inspectorate’s recommendation, the nursery has been ordered to ensure that effective processes are in place by January 31 to ensure employees are “recruited in a safe manner”.
A Highland Council spokesperson said: “The Highland Council are working closely with Playden Nursery, a commissioned partner centre, to ensure there is a robust and stringent action plan in place in response to the Care Inspectorate inspection findings and as part of the settings improvement period.”
In contrast to the highlighted weakness though, the Playden’s staff team received a glowing evaluation of “very good” (level five on its six-point scale) in relation to its staff team.
Findings revealed that children received “consistent, stable and compassionate care” from staff, who were described as being “motivated and committed” to creating a happy and supportive environment.
Inspectors found that positive working relationships had been formed between staff, creating “meaningful contribution to the inclusive and positive ethos of trust and respect”.
The setting of the nursery, and practices surrounding care, play and learning, also received an evaluation of ‘good’.
Among the report’s key messages, it was noted that staff worked with outside professionals to “improve outcomes for children” when they needed additional help.
The indoor playroom was described as “clean and comfortable” and as a “welcoming space” for children and families.
Complementing their learning throughout the day, the inspector, observed that mealtimes were “sociably and unhurried experiences”.
The nursery also received praise for its layout, which enabled children to access resources independently, providing “ample space for exploration and play”.
Playden Nursery has been contacted for comment.
