Dingwall Nursery praised by Care Inspectorate in latest report
DINGWALL Nursery has earned glowing praise from inspectors for providing a “nurturing and consistent environment” for local children.
The nursery, based within the grounds of Dingwall Primary School, has been rated ‘very good’ across all areas in a recent unannounced inspection by the Care Inspectorate. Inspectors highlighted strong leadership, skilled staff and a nurturing approach to early learning.
In their report, all three inspection areas - leadership, children’s play and learning, and care and support - received a score of five out of six.
Inspectors praised the nursery’s “clear ethos of continuous improvement,” and described it as a “happy, fun, safe, and nurturing environment” where children are supported to learn and grow.
They commended the team’s commitment to play-based learning, noting that children were encouraged to explore, create and use their imaginations both indoors and outdoors. Staff were praised for providing “warm, responsive, and consistent care,” thoughtfully adapting routines to support each child’s emotional wellbeing and independence.
The nursery’s “thoughtfully designed” learning environment - including three bright playrooms opening onto an enclosed outdoor space - was said to play a key role in helping children become “confident, curious, and motivated learners.”
Children also benefitted from “engaging, purposeful play,” exploring sensory materials, and taking part in early literacy and numeracy activities woven naturally into daily routines.
According to the report, families told inspectors they valued the nursery’s open communication and the strong relationships built with staff. All families who responded to the online questionnaire strongly agreed or agreed with the statement: 'I have a good relationship with the staff caring for my child.'