Following an unannounced inspection on 14 June, the nursery was awarded a rating of ‘5’ (Very Good) for all areas of its assessment: care, play and learning; setting; leadership and staff team.
In their report, the National Regulator stated that staff were warm, caring and nurturing, and interacted calmly and respectfully with children.
Inspectors added that children experienced a high quality environment at Callander and were developing curiosity, imagination and problem solving through their play experiences.
Other key strengths identified at the nursery included the culture of continuous improvement involving families and staff along with partnership working.
Could not be any prouder
Marina Brunella, Principal Early Childhood Educator at the nursery, said: “We are thoroughly delighted with the outcome of this report and we pay a special thanks to our parents and families for their ongoing support over the past few years, which have been particularly challenging due to Covid.
“The children have shown themselves to be resilient at a time of change, and we could not be any prouder that our efforts to provide a stable, nurturing, learning environment have been recognised and we are delighted to share this with everyone.”
The nursery provides care for a maximum of 58 pre-school children aged two and above is based in a separate building within the grounds of McLaren High School.
Significant strengths
Vice Convener of Stirling Council’s Children and Young People Committee, Cllr Ewan Dillon said: “This fantastic inspection report for Callander Primary School Nursery demonstrates it is providing high standards of care and learning for children.
“Inspectors highlighted significant strengths across all areas of the nursery’s provision with few areas of improvement – and that is no mean feat.
“Achieving this recognition from the National Regulator is only possible through the dedication and professionalism of all the nursery staff at Callander and the amazing support of families, especially throughout the challenges of the pandemic.
“Congratulations to everyone involved at the nursery – and it’s high-fives all round from Stirling Council!”
The full report can be viewed on the Care Inspectorate website.
Background info
The Care Inspectorate is the independent and scrutiny improvement support body for social care and social work services in Scotland.
In making their evaluations of Callander Nursery, the Care Inspectorate spoke with children, parents and carers, staff and management; observed practice and daily life; reviewed documents; and spoke with visiting professionals.