Vogrie Outdoor Early Learning Centre gets high rating for supporting children during pandemic

Vogrie Outdoor Early Learning

Vogrie Outdoor Early Learning and Childcare Centre has been rated as ‘very good’ for its support of children during the COVID-19 pandemic by the official body responsible for inspecting standards of care in Scotland, the Care Inspectorate.

Very good in all categories

The outdoor nursery in the grounds of Vogrie Country Park was rated as ‘very good’ overall and in three specific categories after the unannounced visit by inspectors in April 2021: Children's health and wellbeing are supported and safeguarded during COVID-19; infection prevention and control practices support a safe environment and staffing arrangements are responsive to the changing needs of children during COVID-19.

A commendable job

Midlothian Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Councillor Jim Muirhead congratulated staff members at the centre, which opened in October 2019, said: “As the report reflects, staff at the early learning centre are doing a commendable job in keeping the children safe and supported both physically and mentally during a very challenging time.

Happy, confident children

“Vogrie Outdoor Early Learning Centre had been opened a few short months before the pandemic struck yet have managed to create a, respectful, nurturing and high quality education environment where young people are happy, confident and having fun.

Congratulations

“Well done to everyone involved.”

Thumbs up from parents

Along with the site visit, inspectors also got written feedback from parents. Inspectors found the centre communicated effectively with parents, sharing information using various methods including the online platform SeeSaw and social media.

Good communication

As one parent commented: “I think during the COVID outbreak, as a nursery, they couldn't have done anymore. The support they gave families was excellent. I am kept updated regularly by the nursery Twitter page, pictures and observations on the SeeSaw app and a general chat at the end of the day. The staff at Vogrie are always willing to chat and will encourage my child to tell me what adventure she has been on that day.”