AN IRVINE nursery has been given a good report by inspectors - over a year since they were asked to make improvements.

Last year, Burnside House Nursery was asked to make changes by Education Scotland who criticised their “weak” curriculum.

They were also not meeting national guidance by separating three and four-year-olds into different rooms.

A report in April 2015 showed that the Kilwinning Road nursery was not doing enough to meet the needs of older children.

But a follow-up report released last week praised management for making positive changes.

The 2015 report highlighted a number of problems with the environment of children.

These problems included a poor quality of activities, too varied routines and a “weak” curriculum.

Since then, however, Burnside management have carried out a number of changes including reorganising playrooms, introducing a more flexible routine and a greater learning environment.

Early writing skills and numeracy games are all encouraged but Education Scotland also asked staff to give a greater focus to the skills children are developing.

Staff were also praised for being more confident in planning children’s learning.

The updated report, released last week, stated: “The setting has made a number of important improvements since the previous inspection. 

“Additional staff training has helped staff to develop their knowledge and understanding of national guidance.

“They are now more confident in planning appropriate learning experiences that meet the needs of children. 

“Improvements have also been made to both the layout of playrooms and to the outdoor area.

“Children are now more engaged in their learning and have access to a wider range of quality resources.”

The report added: “Management and staff understand that there is still scope to improve further the curriculum and approaches to monitoring and self-evaluation. 

“As a result of the many improvements made we will make no further visits in connection with this inspection. 

“As part of its arrangements for reporting to parents on the quality of education, North Ayrshire Council will inform parents about the setting’s progress.”