Whistlebrae Montessori Nursery School in Braco is commended for its approach to assessing and recording children's progress in the latest registration inspection report. Staff compile folders of children's work and provide written reports to parents. Regular newsletters and a notice board keep parents informed about the nursery's work.
The report said, 'The owner showed a strong commitment to the group and provided good leadership. She worked effectively with her staff and met regularly with them to discuss and plan their work.'
At The Wendyhouse Children's Nursery in Northmuir, Angus, staff were found to be well deployed with clear roles and duties. Good teamwork was highlighted in its report, which said, 'All members of staff were hard-working and committed to ensuring the smooth running of the nursery. They had participated in a range of training courses to increase their knowledge and expertise.'
The inspector said the nursery's playroom was 'bright and attractive' and noted a dining area and separate room for quiet activities along with an extensive, secure outdoor play facility with a covered area.
Children at King Edward Playgroup, Aberdeenshire, were found to be happy and concentrated well on their activities. The report said, 'Staff used praise effectively to develop children's self-esteem and to encourage awareness of simple rules.' At Rainbow Playgroup in Forfar children participated enthusiastically in role play and talked confidently to adults and each other. The report noted that the playleader interacted well with children to extend discussion.
At An Cotan Childcare Centre, Stornoway, staff were praised for providing plenty of opportunities for energetic play, with children developing good skills in balancing, climbing, running, jumping and pedalling.