Shetland Nurseries and Schools Receive High Praise in Inspections

Councillors in Shetland have received encouraging news regarding recent inspection reports for nurseries, primary schools, and childcare facilities across the islands. Among the highlights was the report for the Foula early learning and childcare, which garnered four ‘very good’ ratings following a virtual inspection conducted by the Care Inspectorate from April 28 to May 2.

While the positive feedback was welcomed, Catherine Hughson, vice-chair of the Education and Families Committee, expressed disappointment over the decision to conduct a virtual visit instead of an in-person inspection. She indicated that a physical visit would provide inspectors with a clearer understanding of the unique remote nature of the setting.

The inspection praised Foula’s team, which is registered to care for a maximum of six children, for its performance in areas including leadership, staff teamwork, and the quality of care, play, and learning.

Positive Evaluations Across Multiple Facilities

Councillors were informed that the Lerwick early learning and childcare facility also received high marks during an unannounced inspection held on April 28 and 29, achieving four ‘very good’ ratings. Similarly, the Lunnasting nursery was inspected on May 1, where it earned two ‘very good’ ratings and two ‘good’ ratings.

Additionally, the Islesburgh out of school care service underwent an unannounced inspection on the same dates as Foula, receiving four ‘good’ ratings. Hughson described the overall report on these settings as “positive and uplifting.”

“It should give the committee the confidence that our early learning, nursery, and out-of-school care are being delivered to a really good standard,” she stated, extending her gratitude to the staff, parents, and school communities involved.

Further Success in Education Inspections

The good news continued with a positive inspection report for Sound Primary School, where both the primary and nursery departments received a mix of good and very good ratings. Hughson characterized this outcome as “really positive” and congratulated all those involved for their efforts.

In addition to early learning and childcare facilities, inspection reports for residential childcare services managed by Shetland Islands Council were also revealed during the council meeting. The facility known as Grodians received a ‘very good’ rating from the Care Inspectorate, while Stura earned a ‘good’ rating.

Hughson emphasized the significance of these findings, noting, “It also highlights the importance of positive relationships and the continuing nurturing of our children.” The overall results from these inspections reflect a commitment to maintaining high standards in early childhood and educational care across Shetland.