We are pleased to announce that the results of our inspection by Education Scotland in June of this year have now been published. The inspectors highlighted our strengths as:

• The leadership, drive and passion of the manager to deliver quality early learning and childcare through an outdoor nursery approach. As a result, children learn daily within and from the natural environment.
• Children’s woodland experiences and the responsive approach practitioners have to children’s interests. This results in motivated children who are adventurous, curious and demonstrate creativity in their play.
• The importance placed on the wellbeing of all. As a result of the clear focus on emotional and physical wellbeing, children develop resilience.
• The community partnerships and investment to support and sustain the outdoor nursery. Ongoing support and contributions from partners are supporting children to become responsible, active citizens within their local community.

The Inspectors suggested the following areas for improvement :

• Continue to develop approaches to evaluate the work of the nursery. This should help plan for continued improvement within the unique outdoor context.
• Develop further planning for children’s learning. Practitioners should provide a better balance of responding to children’s interests and planning for learning. This should ensure suitable levels of challenge for children to help them make the best possible progress

We have incorporated their recommendations into our improvement plan for Session 2024/2025.

The letter for parents and the Summarised Inspection Finding (SIF) are attached below.. They can also be viewed on Education Scotland’s website.