A Gardenstown nursery has drawn praise after it received top marks in a review by the education inspectorate.
Such is the success of Gardenstown Playschool, inspectors say they will now work with the nursery to roll out some of their innovative practices to other early years schools.
Last night, the playschool’s owner, Denise Reid, said it had been the best report the nursery had received in her 16 years in charge.
She said: “We are delighted that Education Scotland and the Care Inspectorate have identified our child-centred practice as ‘best practice’.
“It is so important that children have time to undertake the process of learning without being hurried into an end product. Each child is unique and as such the curriculum should be delivered taking into account their individuality.”
Inspectors had also been impressed with Ms Reid’s management of the school and its staff.
In their report, they said: “The quality of care provided by staff is excellent. They are alert to any potential barriers to children learning. They seek advice, where necessary, from health and other professionals.
“Staff are also aware of children who are making swift progress in their learning. They are skilled at creating challenging tasks to keep these children motivated and engaged in a purposeful way.”
The work of the nursery has additionally lead to local MSP Stewart Stevenson providing his congratulations.
He said it was pleasing that the children were reported as being motivated and making excellent progress.
“It must be pleasing for those involved with Gardenstown Playschool that Education Scotland and the Care Inspectorate have not made any recommendations or issued any requirements for the Playschool.
“This is amongst the best education inspection reports that I have seen during my time as an MSP and everyone at Gardenstown Playschool should be proud of the work that they undertake in providing a good quality start in life for its attendees,” he added.