A CLACKS early years centre has earned a favourable inspection report following an unannounced visit at the end of last year.

Tulach ELC, based at Tullibody South Campus, was graded as “good” in four key areas by the Care Inspectorate following the visit on November 22.

According to inspectors, children benefitted from a caring and nurturing team of staff who worked effectively as a team to meet individual needs and knew them well.

The young people were keen to share their learning and were proud of their achievements while engaging in their play and exploring the resources and activities available with confidence.

Parents told inspectors that staff went above and beyond to give children individual care and attention.

Grades of “good”, or 4 on a six-point scale where 6 is excellent, were awarded in areas of care, play and learning, setting, leadership and staff.

The inspection found that management and staff at the ELC had developed positive links with other professionals, for example, speech and language therapy and occupational health.

Inspectors said that children's opportunities for play and learning were enhanced by strong connections to the community and the centre was welcoming and homely.

Cllr Graham Lindsay, education spokesperson, said: “The findings of this Care Inspectorate report are a real cause for celebration.

“Well done to the dedicated Tulach ELC staff for creating such a caring and nurturing environment and going above and beyond for the children there.

“This is a great report for one of our newest childcare centres and I’d like to congratulate everybody involved.”

Inspectors also observed that the staff team had a mix of skills, experience and knowledge and worked well together.

The inspection report added: “Staff had been developing their lunchtime experience. They were reflecting on the overall experience for children to ensure it was relaxed, unhurried and sociable.

“Staff supported their key children during lunch. We discussed ways to improve this experience with management, for example, considering where lunch was eaten as the dining hall was very noisy and some children could not hear staff.

“These considerations would ensure that lunchtime was sociable experience for all children.”

There were no complaints upheld since the last inspection.

Visit careinspectorate.com for the full report and for inspections of other establishments in the area.