PARENTS of children at a Helensburgh nursery have spoken up for it after a critical Care Inspectorate report.

Inspectors said the management and leadership of Stepping Stones in West King Street was ‘weak’ after it admitted more children than permitted on three separate occasions during March.

But their report also highlighted a high level of parent satisfaction at the nursery, and the positive relationships staff members have with children.

That parent satisfaction has been underlined by the views of mums who say the nursery has given their children the best start to their education.

Mum Helen Taylor said: “I have been fortunate to be able to send my son to Stepping Stones. He has thoroughly enjoyed the past two years at this great nursery.

“The truly dedicated staff team led by [manager] Jo Butler provide quality pre-school education in a caring and safe environment.

“The staff team work really hard to provide a creative and stimulating environment, which makes for exciting adventures in play and learning.

“I am so happy with the nursery provision and hope Stepping Stones continues for many more years to come.”

The inspectors’ report criticised the nursery’s lack of a personal care plan setting out each child’s care and health and safety needs, and said some procedures did not reflect ‘best practice’.

But their conclusions didn’t reflect the views of many parents.

Jennifer Hughes said: “It’s the simple things that make a difference. Every child is personally greeted on arrival. Cuddles are dished out ‘just because’.

“This is the right environment for starting a child’s education and gives them the encouragement to thrive.”

Laura Cavana added: “My little boy loves Stepping Stones and has gone from a shy boy not wanting to leave me to a boy who runs into nursery as soon as we get to the front gates.”

Lyn McDonald said she was “100 per cent happy” with the nursery and spoke of the “wonderful caring staff”.

Mum Yvonne McCormack, who had Jo Butler as her own teacher when she was young, said it was “an absolute delight” that her son could attend.

She said: “I am so impressed with the staff, facilities and the learning and development is excellent and very accessible. You cannot sum up how fantastic Jo and the nursery are.”

Karen Fraser said Stepping Stones was “a great nursery” and added: “Mrs Butler and her team are fantastic and have helped my daughter flourish.”

Aline Adams said: “Stepping Stones has provided my son with a nurturing, safe and fun environment where he has thrived. As a parent I have full access to his work and milestone achievements. More than anything he is happy – a happy child at a happy nursery.”

Lorna Beattie added: “The positive and nurturing environment of Stepping Stones transformed my son from a shy nervous boy reluctant to join in activities to a confident child who has gone on to make many friends.

“My daughter has greatly enjoyed her time at Stepping Stones and all the teachers have provided support with any parenting queries.”

Hazel Stevenson added: “We love Stepping Stones because it is a fun and safe environment.”