MENSTRIE Primary School nursery class has been applauded for its many key strengths, including the “flexible, child centred transition programme”, following an unannounced inspection.

A visit from the Care Inspectorate on Thursday, June 8, looked at the quality of care and support and quality of the environment and graded both of these areas as excellent.

It was found the management team worked jointly to deliver a vision that ensured children were at the heart of learning and were inspirational.

Staff worked to plan the environment alongside parents, carers and other agencies where required, while the physical environment was continually enhanced by staff.

Values of the nursery were underpinned by the curriculum provided, such as the community café operated by the children which resulted in learning and a focus on health and wellbeing.

The report on the visit read: “One of the many key strengths of the service was the flexible, child centred transition programme.

“We found that practitioners were completely in tune with children’s distinct personalities, physical and learning needs.

“The environment was planned through the contact and information provided by the parents/carers.

“When required, other agencies such as, occupational therapists and speech therapists were involved.”

Inspectors highlighted that parents said the environment supported their child’s learning and celebrated their achievements.

The report added: “We noted the outdoor area had been significantly transformed since the last inspection.

“Parents fundraising, has helped the children create an excellent area to take learning outdoors.

“Children with additional needs found the outdoors beneficial as it provided the appropriate space and supported their learning.

“Outdoor clothing was provided and this encouraged children to use the area in all weathers.

"The resources reflected children’s interests and challenged their overall development.”

Inspectors saw the nursery’s priorities for development in the Improvement Plan, and consider that the staff are really committed to improving outcomes for children and families.

Councillor Graham Lindsay, Clackmannanshire Council’s spokesperson for education, welcomed the feedback.

He said: “This is a very impressive inspection report, which grades Menstrie PS nursery class as excellent.

“It is great to see such a positive report which highlights good practice and includes a lot of comments from happy children and their parents and carers.

“Well done to everyone for all their hard work and effort, which reflect the focus we have on raising attainment for all our young people in Clackmannanshire.”