Published on:
10
May 2021
Sauchie ELC has been praised by the Care Inspectorate following a recent unannounced inspection.
The inspection took place last month and the inspection report has now been published. The purpose of the inspection was to evaluate how well children are being supported during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Care Inspectorate evaluated the service based on key areas that are vital to the support and wellbeing of children experiencing care during the pandemic.
Sauchie ELC received four Grade 5 ratings (Very Good) for:
The inspection report states that children and families were supported to feel included in the life of the service when they could not attend during the national lockdown. The service successfully established a range of ways to share information and engage with families including the use of digital technology and physically distanced doorstep visits. This meant families were provided with support that was tailored to meet their needs supporting their health, wellbeing and safety.
Inspectors made an on site visit to the ELC and found children were confident and happy and making use of the indoor and outdoor environment. The interactions between children and staff were warm and nurturing with staff observed as responsive to the needs of the children. The environment created a rich opportunity for children to learn new skills.
Inspectors found that children were protected as staff took the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of infection. Clear policies, procedures and risk assessments were in place to ensure a consistent approach to infection prevention and control. Review and development of risk assessments and updates to policy and procedures was responsive to the ongoing COVID situation in the service. This ensured a rigorous approach to minimising the spread of the virus.
The report describes staff as well trained, competent and confident in supporting children during the pandemic. Staff had received training that supported them to become knowledgeable about Covid safe practices. Discussion with staff and observation of practice reassured inspectors that staff were confident in their understanding of current legislation and best practice. This ensured that they maintained a healthy environment for children and families.
Education Spokesperson Councillor Graham Lindsay said: "The findings of this Care Inspectorate report are cause for pride in our early learning centres and our dedicated ELC staff who are creating a warm and nurturing environment for our young people. This is a fantastic report and I’d like to congratulate everybody concerned.”