An Alva childminder has been praised for her warm and nurturing service following a surprise inspection.

Sierra Sison runs Alva Childminding Service from her home in the village. The unexpected inspection carried out by the Care Inspectorate included evaluations of various aspects of care such as setting, leadership, and quality of staff.

The service received the grade “good” for setting and staff, along with care, play, and learning.

Inspectors noted that children experienced “compassionate, nurturing care that was right for them.”

During the inspection, officials talked to four parents of children who use the service. One said: "We have a strong relationship with the childminder. Sierra is not only incredibly supportive of the children but will help share what works well in the setting so we can replicate at home.

“My children have loved being under her care."

Another added: "Sierra is always welcoming, and I know I can ask to discuss my child's development at any time.

“Sometimes this is a quick 10-minute chat at drop off or pick up. If I need a longer discussion, it is very easy to work with Sierra to arrange this."

Regarding the service’s setting, it was observed that children benefit from regular access to the outdoors. This includes local wooded areas and streams along with a play area with a large climbing frame.

However, inspectors found that some areas needed improvement.

They noted that some plans had not been updated or reviewed within the past six months, which created a potential for key information to be missed.

The report stated: “To ensure that children benefit from individualised care, the childminder should ensure that personal plans are updated regularly.”

The service received the grade “adequate” for leadership, and it was found that at times it had operated with more children than on the registration, including on the day of inspection.

Inspectors said that the service must immediately ensure that it acts within the constraints of the conditions of registration to ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of the children.

The service took action by ensuring that an assistant was working the next day to ensure that enough staff were present to meet the children's needs.