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Leadership ‘satisfactory’ at Bower nursery after management change following ‘unsettled period’





Bower Busy Bees had demonstrating improvements in leadership after an Education Scotland visit. Picture: Google Maps
Bower Busy Bees had demonstrating improvements in leadership after an Education Scotland visit. Picture: Google Maps

New management at an early years playgroup in Bower has “stabilised leadership” following “a very unsettled period”, an newly published inspection has found.

Bower Busy Bees ELC received a joint inspection from Education Scotland and the Care Inspectorate in October 2024, when inspectors talked to parents, carers and children, and worked closely with the head of setting and practitioners.

The nursery, which was founded in 1978, is run by a voluntary management committee of parents and community members and is a registered charity.

It is registered for 12 children at any one time and caters for children aged two years to those not yet attending school.

Situated in a building made up of a converted stable, it consists of a playroom, kitchen, “mudroom” cloakroom area, courtyard and extensive wooded area where children spend extended time outdoors.

In the report published last week, inspectors noted that children were “confident and happy” and “enjoy spending time outdoors”, contributing to their wellbeing.

Using its quality framework for day care of children, childminding and school-aged childcare, Education Scotland assessors determined an overall grade of “satisfactory” where it concern’s the nursery’s ability to lead change.

During inspection, the centre’s newly appointed manager demonstrated an “enthusiasm, drive and commitment” to the development of the nursery, after what was described as an “unsettled” period.

It was noted that she had successfully developed trusting relationships with the ELC community as “a positive role model for practitioners”.

The manager, in post since September, was previously a parent committee member and supported as an interim manager.

Practitioners at the nursery were noted for their caring and calm demeanour in their interactions with children, creating a “homely and welcoming ethos” that helps children settle and be relaxed.

It was found that involvement of families in the management and maintenance of the nursery has also helped to improve the quality of learning spaces that support children’s experiences.

Areas for improvement were also identified and discussed with the headteacher and a representative from Highland Council.

Inspectors advised the nursery manager to work closely with the committee, practitioners and families to secure ongoing improvement.

An onus has also been placed on the need to develop further how children’s learning is planned for, documented and monitored, while involving children and families.

Inspectors concluded that they are confident that the setting has the capacity to continue to improve and so will make no more visits in connection with this inspection.

Highland Council will inform parents/carers about the setting’s progress as part of its arrangements for reporting on the quality of its settings.

In their report, it was noted that as a result of the Care Inspectorate’s findings and evaluations, further scrutiny activity will be undertaken.


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