NURTURING care and support has earned high praise for a Hillfoots ELC, following an unannounced inspection.

Menstrie Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) centre has received grades of “very good” in all areas from the Care Inspectorate after the unannounced inspection in December.

Inspectors said children felt valued, loved and respected at the nursery because their care and support was delivered in a “warm, kind and compassionate way”.

It was found that staff respected children's choices and worked with them to build on their learning together.

Grades of 5 or “very good”, on a scale from 1-6, were awarded in areas of care,play and learning, setting, leadership and staff team.

The report by inspectors said: “A nurturing rights based approach to delivering personal care meant children were supported with dignity and choice.

“Staff recognised that secure attachments and quality interactions nurtured children's security, confidence, and positive relationships.

“Children's overall wellbeing was supported by the effective use of personal plans.

“The importance of involving families and other professionals in making decisions about children's care and support was recognised.”

Inspectors added that a shared vision created a happy and welcoming ethos in the service.

The report also said that the ELC should continue to develop its garden area to maximise the space and the benefits to children's learning experiences.

Strong leadership in the service also received praise.

Cllr Graham Lindsay, education spokesperson, said: “This is a wonderful report and a real cause for celebration.

“Once again we can demonstrate the high quality early learning and childcare that is provided in Clackmannanshire, helping our children to get the very best start in life.

“Well done to the highly-skilled staff at Menstrie ELC for working so hard for the children there resulting in such a positive report.”

The report, available via careinspectorate.com, added that there have been no complaints upheld since the last inspection.