A KILWINNING nursery has been praised by inspectors, especially for their work outdoors.

Blacklands Early Years Class has received a huge thumbs up in its latest report from the Care Inspectorate and the facility, located within Blacklands Primary School in Kilwinning, was awarded ‘very good’ gradings for both Quality of Care and Support and Quality of Environment during an unannounced visit in December 2018.

No other categories were assessed during the inspection.

In this latest boost for North Ayrshire Council’s Early Years Provision, praise was given to the centre’s ‘welcoming, friendly and nurturing environment’, with children described as being ‘happy, confident and settled’.

Staff were ‘kind and caring’ in their interactions with children and responsive to individual care needs, as well as being ‘skilled and knowledgeable about children’s development’ and supporting their health and well-being.

A particular strength of the service was reported to be the outdoor space. This had been transformed since the last inspection, with ‘ample evidence of the children’s involvement in designing the garden’, where they have been growing vegetables and learning about food.

Councillor John Bell, Cabinet Member for Education and Youth Employment, said: “We are delighted with what is another very positive Care Inspectorate report for Blacklands Early Years Class.

“This is testament not only to the dedication of staff, but also to the partnership work with parents who are involved in many of the activities organised by the centre.

“Their hard work has paid off yet again and we would like to congratulate them all.”