A NURSERY in Gourock is celebrating being top of the class after a positive report from inspectors.

Binnie Street Children's Centre was given a 'very good' grade across the board the service it provides.

The council-owned facility was praised for its care, play and learning, setting, leadership and staff team.

The report said: "Children were happy, settled and confident sharing their experiences with staff and inspectors.

"Staff knew the children well and strong attachments were evident as staff engaged with children, down at their eye level, providing comfort, reassurance and cuddles."

One parent said: "The nursery has friendly, caring staff. My child loves going to nursery."

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Three inspectors carried out visits across two days in May and spoke with children, staff and parents.

They found that staff had a very good understanding of development and added that  the children under their care were thriving.

Watchdogs noted the nursery's good links with the local community and said the outdoor environment on offer was a key strength of the establishment.

They found that personal plans were in place for all children which gathered information to support their needs, wishes and choices, with regular reviews.

However the inspectors said that it was not always clearly stated what individual steps were in place to support their health, welfare or safety needs, as well as their play and learning targets.

The report said: "We would ask management along with the staff to streamline processes in place to ensure all information is reflected clearly."

Apart from that observation, the nursery got a glowing report.

The setting was also praised as 'secure, clean, inviting and welcoming'.

Management was praised, with experts saying the nursery was well-led with the team working together to offer the best possibly start for children.

The report said: "The management and staff team were committed to a quality service for children and families.

"Staff were kind nurturing and respectful towards children, helping them to feel loved and secure. Staff worked well together and were supported by the wider management team."

Depute head Pauline McPhee is thrilled with the verdict and gave credit to her team.

She said: "We are absolutely delighted that the staff have been recognised for all the work they do throughout the year to provide a quality service.

"We are very lucky to have our staff who go above and beyond.

"It's a very welcoming and happy place, we're like a family.

"We are open 52 weeks a year and we have a 2-3 room, 3-5 room, outdoor classroom and we also provide an out-of-hours school service.

"We have a fantastic bunch of children and we are really supported by our parents."