Under fives in Ferguslie are on course for a glittering future of academic achievement thanks to the hard work of one of the best nurseries in the country.
Education Scotland has awarded the Ferguslie Pre 5 Centre four excellents and a very good, describing the nursery as , “an exceptional learning environment where children blossom and thrive.”
Margaret Paterson, HM Inspector, said, “Your children are making excellent progress in literacy and numeracy and … tremendous progress in their learning. Children of all ages show a keen interest in books, action rhymes and songs.
“The highly skilled and passionate team understand that nurture and high quality learning go hand in hand and strive for the highest quality for children and parents at all times. Staff meet the learning needs of children in an outstanding way by working in close partnership with parents and other professionals.
“Babies and toddlers benefit greatly from spending time with each other and the encouraging staff in a motivating, calm and well planned environment. Your children are becoming very confident communicators who talk and listen well to each other and to staff.”
Education Scotland singled out Judith Thomas, Head of Centre and her depute, Isobel Henney, for special praise, “Leadership is outstanding across the whole team. This is driven by the skilful and highly experienced head of centre, supported by her highly effective depute, who both have extensive knowledge of high quality early learning and childcare practice.”
Councillor Jacqueline Henry, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Education and Children Policy Board, said, “How well a child does at school sets the scene for the rest of their life. The Ferguslie Pre 5 Centre is giving local children the best possible start in their educational career and instilling a real love of learning.
“This report is exceptional and it is gratifying that the inspectors recognised the hard work of Judith Thomas, head of centre, and her team.”