Widespread praise from inspectors for Raploch Nursery

Raploch Nursery has achieved a five-star report from the Care Inspectorate.

A child plays with a soft toy in front of a star shaped light
Raploch Nursery received a string of five star grades from the Care Inspectorate

The Stirling nursery received a grading of ‘5’ (Very Good) in each of the four core evaluations of its service from the Inspectorate – setting, leadership, staff team and care, play and learning.

It followed an unannounced inspection at the nursery – which provides care for up to 150 children – by the National Regulator at the end of October.

Inspectors highlighted a number of areas for praise at Raploch. These include:

  • The respectful, nurturing and compassionate care for children and families.
  • Empowerment of children to take ownership of their time and lead their own learning.
  • Development and maintenance of good links between children and their community.
  • Strong leadership and positive working with families and other professionals to support children’s wellbeing.

Quality care

Leeann Finch, Head of Raploch Nursery, said: “I am very proud of the hard work and dedication of the team and the commitment they show to our nursery community. We are very grateful for the support we receive across our community and give a special thank you to the contributions and involvement of our children and families.

“We are pleased that inspectors noted the strong leadership within the service and praised the commitment of the team in providing high quality care and support, as well as positive working with families. Children were empowered to take ownership of their time within the setting and led their own learning.”

Cllr Danny Gibson, Convener of Stirling Council’s Children and Young People Committee, said: “The Care Inspectorate paid tribute to a ‘passionate’ staff and leadership team and they, along with the children and their families, should be proud of this report card. The professionalism across the board at Raploch Nursery shines through.

Positive outcomes

“The report highlights the nurturing and compassionate care being experienced by children at Raploch and this is supporting them to feel safe, loved and well cared.

“The children at the nursery are happy and confident and their independence is clearly promoted by staff. Congratulations to all involved with the nursery for delivering positive outcomes for the children in their care.”

As part of the evaluation, the Inspectorate spoke to several children, families, the manager and staff and visiting professionals.

The full report can be viewed on the Care Inspectorate website.