Praise for Fife nursery after unannounced inspection

St Andrews Nursery, was the subject of an unannounced visit as part of Education Scotland’s annual routine of checking educational establishments.

Inspectors were impressed with what they found during the time they spent at the nursery.

They mentioned some specific key strengths of the setting, where they found that the children present are settled and happy as a result of positive, trusting relationships which has been built up. The caring and nurturing ethos created for children and their families was applauded.

The senior leadership team who effectively lead and motivate an enthusiastic team of practitioners came in for a mention from the inspectors.

It was noted that practitioners creative use of the environment both indoors and outdoors which promotes and supports children’s thinking, curiosity and enquiry were worthy of being remarked upon.

The following areas for improvement were identified and discussed with the headteacher and a representative from Fife Council.

The senior leadership team and practitioners should take steps to improve children’s progress. These steps should be carefully monitored and evaluated regularly with children and parents.

Staff and management should c ontinue as planned to deepen individual children’s learning, building on their interests and what they already know.

The senior leadership team should review the individual plans for children with additional support needs to ensure that next steps are clear and monitored to ensure they help children to make the best possible progress. They should also continue to work closely with key partners on the agreed next steps.

Inspectors said 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. Fife Council will now inform parents/carers about the setting’s progress as part of its arrangements for reporting.