Published 07 June 2021
Staff and children at Andrew B Cameron Early Learning and Childcare Centre are celebrating after the centre was awarded a very good first inspection by Care inspectorate Scotland.
The centre which has been open for two years received Grade 5 awards for all areas inspected.
The inspection focused on how well the children and their families were being supported during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In feedback provided to inspectors, parents and carers praised ELCC staff for offering a caring and nurturing environment where children and their families feel supported. Staff were also commended for helping children to settle well during the pandemic and making it ‘all feel normal’ for new children.
Inspectors heard how families were kept informed via the centre’s online DoJo system where they received updates on children’s progress and daily activities.
The report highlighted staff for being proactive in comforting, reassuring and supporting children as well as ensuring children who required additional support from other agencies continued to receive it.
Inspectors said the centre’s management and staff had a clear understanding of how and when personal protective equipment should be worn and disposed of, and had participated in a range of training activities relating to COVID-19 to help minimise the risk of infection.
Inspectors noted that the committed staff have a strong sense of teamwork and friendship, creating a positive and supportive environment for children and families.
Councillor Karen Conaghan, Convener of Educational Services, said: “I am delighted to see the excellent work and the dedication of staff recognised in this very positive report. The report highlights the fantastic job being carried out by the Principal Early Learning and Childcare Officer and staff during the what has been a very challenging year in education. Their enthusiasm and dedication to the quality and to the safety of the children in their care is to be commended.”
Councillor Ian Dickson, Vice Convener of Educational Services, said: “I would like to congratulate everyone at the centre for their part in achieving this great report. The children, under the leadership of the dedicated staff are thriving and given the guidance, support and confidence to grow and achieve. It must be a great comfort to parents to know their children are receiving an excellent start to their education .”