AN UNANNOUNCED inspection found ABC Nursery in Alloa provides high-quality care for children and families in the community.

Following the visit in May, a report from the Care Inspectorate praised the new nursery manager who was appointed earlier this year, saying they were "confident and provided staff with a clear vision".

It also highlighted the building upgrades which have been carried out since the previous inspection, when a refurbishment had been recommended.

Staff were found to be "motivated and enthusiastic" and there were examples across all age groups of children who were "happy, engaged and learning".

Overall, the Care Inspectorate rated the service as very good for its quality of care and support, along with its quality of environment.

The report said: "Staff and parents told us they found home visits to be very beneficial. It gave those involved the opportunity to get to know each other before the child took up a placement. 

"We found that home visits helped build caring, trusting relationships.

This also supported staff to understand the child's routine at home and staff were better able to effectively support children's emotional health and wellbeing.

"We noted that parts of the premises had been upgraded since the last inspection and this has provided children with an environment that suited their needs."

Inspectors noted that comments from parents demonstrated that they considered the nursery environment supported the learning and development of the youngsters.

Rooms were well laid out with plenty of space for those from two-years-old to pre-school age to move naturally throughout the premises and be involved in activities.

Risk assessments were examined and found to be satisfactory, while children with support needs could play alongside others and join in group activities. 

The report detailed: "Staff were found to be motivated and enthusiastic and shared with us some of the activities they were involved in. 

"For example, they provided evening 'PEEP' sessions (Parents' Early Education Partnership). 

"Expectations were agreed with parents and topics were chosen. This supported parents/carers and children to learn together and, at the same time, have fun.

"Parents told us they valued the opportunity to be part of 'PEEP' sessions as this provided them with information and strategies on how to better manage certain situations, such as meal times. 

"Parents told us how much they enjoyed meeting other parents as this helped them to get to know other people."

Throughout the nursery, staff knew children in their care well, and positive responses provided showed children and families "benefited significantly" from the service provided.