“WARM, welcoming and caring” staff at an Annan playgroup have been hailed following an inspection.
St Columba’s Nursery received a very good (five) grade for its staff by the Care Inspectorate.
They say staff members had a positive ethos and the site was appropriately staffed for the children’s needs.
Inspectors noted that staff worked well together as a team and their different skills and knowledge complemented each other. This resulted in positive interactions with the children.
One parent told the inspectors: “All the staff know my child well and their needs. They are always on hand for any questions we have.
“The staff are friendly and helpful. My child enjoys being around them.”
The inspectors reported that staff communicated well with each other, transitions were planned, and children were familiar with the daily routine.
Staff members stated in the report that they have “extra staff than the ratios, which allows us to meet the needs of the children as we can provide more one-to-one support if needed”.
The staffing also allows them to have free-flow play between the indoors and outdoors. The manager supported staff by spending regular time on the nursery floor. This helped to build positive working relationships and allowed time for professional discussion.
Staff were happy, engaged, and shared tasks through working as a team.
The playgroup also received good grades for its care, play and learning; setting and leadership.
