Thurso early learning and childcare centre gets top marks from Care Inspectorate
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AN early learning and childcare centre in Thurso has received top marks following a visit by the Care Inspectorate.
The leadership and staff team at the purpose-built centre in the grounds of the Miller Academy primary school was rated as very good while the care, play and learning along with the setting was described as good. The unannounced inspection was made on September 27.
The two inspectors spoke with eight people using the service and 18 of their families, talked with15 staff and management, observed practice and daily life at the facility and reviewed documents.
The report said the Miller Academy Early Learning and Childcare Centre "comprises three large and bright playrooms, each with direct access to the fully enclosed outdoor area, toilets, foyer and staff office.
"The service is registered to provide a care service to a maximum of 80 children aged two to those attending primary school. Of those no more than 20 are aged between two to three years old. The service is managed by the head teacher of the primary school and is provided by the local authority, Highland Council."
The inspectors said the youngsters experienced warm, caring and nurturing interactions from staff who "placed a strong focus on supporting children's health and wellbeing using nurturing, holistic approaches."
Personal plans were in place for all children, contributing to consistency of care. The youngsters directed their own play and "were mostly engaged in purposeful, fun experiences, through a mix of planned and spontaneous learning."
Staff recently reviewed the outdoor environment and resources provided, to make sure that children had opportunities to use "creativity and curiosity through their play and learning experiences."
"The service benefited from strong and dedicated leadership who demonstrated a good understanding of creating a culture of continuous improvement. The manager had recently focused on staff deployment as an area for self-evaluation and improvement.
"High importance had been placed on ensuring children received high quality care by staff that met individual children's needs," stated the report.
In evaluating quality, the Care Inspectorate use a six point scale with one unsatisfactory and six excellent.
It rated the care, play and learning and the setting at the centre as four with the leadership and staff team getting a five.
