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1 October 2018
The Nursery at St George’s School for Girls, Edinburgh, has been awarded the grade of ‘very good’ across all areas of assessment in a report produced by the Care Inspectorate following a recent inspection.
The unannounced inspection focused on two key factors: the quality of care and support, and the quality of staffing. Across both categories the Nursery received the grade of ‘very good’ – a clear reflection of the high standards adhered to across the school.
The report commended the school’s committed staff for their ‘warm, kind and supportive’ dispositions and for the way in which staff ‘knew the children well’. ‘Strong attachments between children and staff’ were also observed. The quality of early years education was also positively acknowledged, with note made of ‘the way in which children were motivated to learn because experiences and activities were based on their needs, interests and preferences’.
The report gave particular mention to the nursery children being involved in the wider community through weekly visits to a local care home. This helped children to learn about others and develop their understanding of empathy and friendship.
The outdoor learning programme was also praised with reference to children taking part in coastal learning sessions at the local beach where they could explore and learn more about the natural world they live in.
Alex Hems, Head of St George’s, commented:
‘Providing a collaborative approach to education from our Nursery, right through to our girls leaving, is something that has always been key to the ethos of St George’s. We are delighted the Care Inspectorate’s report has acknowledged the excellent work done by our staff in the Nursery to help our girls develop from an early age, knowing how important it is to give children the best possible start in their schooling.’
Run in partnership with The City of Edinburgh Council, the Nursery offers part-funded places for 3-5 year old children, while also providing care from 2 years upwards. The school also accepts boys up to the start of their pre-school year. Wrap-around care is available from 7.45am and until 6.00pm, offering flexibility to busy parents.
