A Central Fife nursery was praised for its “warm welcoming ethos” following a recent unannounced care inspection.

Located in Lochgelly, Noah’s Ark Children’s Nursery received a positive grade in every aspect of care examined by the Care Inspectorate.

Aspects of care were evaluated including setting, leadership, and quality of staff.

The nursery received the grade “good” for its setting and leadership, along with care, play, and learning.

The staff team were determined to be “very good”, which is the second highest grade on a scale ranging from unsatisfactory to excellent.

The report said: “Families were greeted warmly on arrival by staff who know them well. The strong relationships and effective communication with parents contributed to children's needs being met.

“Staff were sensitive in supporting distressed behaviours which empowered children to manage conflict and maintain their self-esteem.

“Children who were upset or unsettled were quickly given physical comfort and reassurance which further enhanced their attachment with keyworkers.”

Feedback from parents of attendees spoke highly of the facility’s level of care. One told inspectors that: "It's like sending my child to spend time with their favourite aunties."

Another said: "All members of staff are friendly and approachable, and care for the children even if they are not in their room.

“The more senior nursery staff also care for parent wellbeing and will always make time if a parent is needing some emotional support.”

In relation to the nursery’s setting, inspectors did highlight the need for some written risk assessments to be reviewed, with further detail added ensure children's safety.

It was also highlighted that the garden fence “provided children with footholds which would enable some to scale the fence and potentially leave the service unnoticed”, but staff took action to address this at the time of inspection.

Despite these concerns, inspectors concluded that the setting’s strengths clearly outweighed areas for improvement.

Nursery manager Karen Robertson said she is: "Delighted for the nursery team and already working on areas to develop the nursery even further."