Published 13 May 2022

Staff and children at Levenvale Early Learning and Childcare Centre are celebrating after the centre was rated very good in a recent inspection. The centre, which has been open for just under two years, received top marks, from the Care Inspectorate during the unannounced inspection.

Management and senior staff were praised by inspectors who found the team to be very responsive and committed to improving outcomes for children and successfully nurturing staff.

Inspectors also highlighted significant strengths in the care provided to children within the centre and how these supported positive outcomes.

The inspectors observed children experiencing good high quality play, learning and development opportunities and benefiting from the caring learning environment where they are supported to reach their full potential. Inspectors noted strong evidence of child centred, responsive play, with a focus on nurture, wellbeing and mindfulness.

Children enjoyed free flow, active learning opportunities in the playrooms, outdoor areas and at their Forest School.

The inspection noted that staff were passionate about providing children with quality early learning and childcare and praised them for being responsive, attentive and having developed warm, caring relationships with children and being aware of individual needs and preferences.

Within the centre, resources are displayed to which children can access independently and they were confident to approach staff for support, help and reassurance helping them to develop positive relationships with the staff team.

The Early Learning and Childcare Centre was also praised for its communications with both children and families, with examples including Dojo, activity packs and videos for families to engage at home. Stay and play sessions at the nursery also gave parents the opportunity to see the nursery environments, and review children’s learning journals with their children and update care plans and learning targets.

In feedback from parents and carers they praised the centre for their communications during the pandemic. Comments included "I always feel well informed", "I am very pleased with the communication I receive" and "My child has very supportive relations with all the staff".

Snack and lunchtime provided nurture for children with staff supporting them and promoting independence and lots of caring, social interactions where children developed their conversational skills and enjoyed taking on responsibility for tasks.

Laura Mason, Chief Officer of Education, said: “It is very encouraging to see the many highlights in this positive inspection report, which recognises the great work and commitment of the staff within the centre. The report highlights the fantastic job being carried out by the Principal Early Learning and Childcare Officer, their enthusiasm and dedication to the quality learning and safety of the children in their care is to be commended.

“I would like to congratulate everyone at the centre for their part in achieving this great report and the parents and carers for their positive feedback which is much appreciated.”

Following the inspection, no recommendations or follow up inspections are planned.