INSPECTORS have praised a council-run school nursery in a Borders village after happy and confident pupils there gave them a guided tour.

Newcastleton Primary School Nursery in Montagu Street is registered to provide a day care service to a maximum of 27 children aged from two years.

On Wednesday, March 13, an inspector from the Care Inspectorate paid an unannounced visit to the nursery.

The key messages were that children were happy and confident, staff and pupils worked together to promote a “nurturing environment” and that the garden space had been thoughtfully developed to offer a variety of well resourced spaces.

The nursery was rated ‘very good’ in four categories – the quality of care, play and learning, its setting, leadership and staff team.

The report states: “Staff were kind and caring towards children, which created a welcoming and nurturing environment that promoted emotional well-being and development.

“Children were friendly and curious about the purpose of our visit. They showed familiarity with the daily routines and told us about the recent developments, such as the new playroom and garden.

“Children gave us a tour of their playroom and garden, demonstrating their knowledge of the environment and a sense of belonging in the setting.”