Blooming good inspection report for Kincraig's Wild Willows nursery
Care and Learning Alliance (CALA) has received a good inspection report from the Care Inspectorate for its Wild Willows nursery in Kincraig.
It is registered to provide a day care service to a maximum of 17 children aged two years and nine months to those not yet attending primary school.
The service based in Kincraig Church hall was subject to an unannounced visit on March 28 by an inspector.
Care, play and learning; setting; leadership and the staff were all deemed to be good with an award of four marks out of six (excellent).
Some of the key findings were:
• Children enjoyed playing and learning in the local woods, developing their imagination and curiosities.
• Tots overall wellbeing was supported through regular physical play outside.
• Staff supported children with warmth and nurture which helped children to feel safe and secure.
CALA chief executive Jaci Douglas said: “We are so pleased with this extremely positive Care Inspectorate report which highlights the hard work and dedication of our skilled, nurturing and professional staff.
“At CALA we pride ourselves in providing a quality service that meets the needs of all children in our care.
“We strive for continuous improvement of our service and this was recognised by Care Inspectorate.”
She said areas for improvement had been identified and they were being taken forward in line with the findings of the latest inspection.
Ms Douglas added: “We are especially pleased with the positive feedback from parents highlighted in the report which states that parents told the Care Inspectorate they were very happy with the service that staff provided.”
The nursery offers children a wide range of learning and play opportunities both indoors and outdoors, with children spending the majority of time outdoors exploring local woodland areas and walks.
The inspector stated: “Children were happy and confidently playing in the setting. They were comfortable with the rhythm of the day, and confident in their interactions with staff.
“Staff welcomed children individually and there was a relaxed atmosphere from the beginning of the day.
“They supported children to regulate their emotions, offering cuddles and reassurance when needed. This meant that children felt safe and secure.
“Effective sharing of information had a positive effect on children’s health and wellbeing.
“Children’s care reflected their families’ preferences and staff were confident when discussing individual children’s needs.”
On play and learning, the inspector reported: “Children were supported by staff to develop their imagination and natural curiosity. They accessed local woods daily, where they explored their environment with confidence.
“For example, children were developing their risk awareness climbing trees and jumping into beds of leaves. Staff helped them to recognise their limitations and play safely.”
Staff were described as being ‘very knowledgeable’ about the benefits of risky play and supported children to play safely both indoors and outdoors. They were vigilant about accounting for children, using head counts and keeping children in sight as they moved through the woods.
Children benefited from good connections with their local community.
The setting was found to be bright, clean and well ventilated. Children had access to a large hall and a smaller room where they could access a cosy space to rest and relax in.
This room was warm and welcoming and had a homely feel. Children have access to a large hall and second room but spend the majority of time outdoors exploring local woodland areas and walks. There was a good balance of skills an experience within the small staff team. The inspector said the indoor environment could be improved.
The manager had identified the need for an additional staff member and recently appointed a support worker after initial problems filling the role. It is hoped the individual will be in position for the summer term.
“Increasing staffing over busier times of the day should ensure that staff have opportunities to have breaks without compromising children’s experiences.”
The service is open daily 9am to 3pm. More information available at 07530 208 895, or email wild.willows@calachildcare.co.uk.
• CALA supports other local groups. Information is available at: 01463 222 569.
• The full inspection report can be read here
