STAFF at an early learning centre in Ayr have been told that they must do better when interacting with children.

Cherry Tree Early Years Centre, based at Dalmilling Primary School, have been told to improve on four different accounts in their recent inspection report from the care inspectorate.

The centre, which can accommodate to a maximum of 77 kids, received an adequate mark of three out of five for the quality of staff.

The report states under the section of where the service could do better: “During the inspection we observed some staff interacting poorly with children present. We spoke with management and provided them with examples of our observations.

“We asked the management team to monitor staff practice to ensure children are fully respected at all times. Children should experience warmth, kindness and compassion from all staff.”

The centre was also highlighted for not having fully complete medical records of all of the children registered in the building.

This was underlined because there were forms that parents had not signed permission for the service to administer medication to their children.

As well as this, staff fed back to the inspectors that they felt that their suggestions and ideas to improve the service were not always valued by the management team and that their interactions could have been better.

However, despite some negative points for the nursery, there was positive feedback from the inspection too. This included parent engagement meetings and that the snacks provided to kids throughout the day were mostly nutritious and healthy. It was also added that at lunch time, children enjoye food in a relaxed atmosphere,

Prior to the review, 22 questionnaires were asked by the examination board for their opinions about the centre, which reveal a stark contrast to the results.

One parent said: “I could not be happier with all the staff and facilities at the nursery. Both 0-2 and 3-5 age group’s staff have been amazing for my child’s development and education. I know by the time he goes to school by next year, he will be more than ready.”

Another added: “Cherry Tree is a fantastic nursery. I know everything I need to know about my child and would definitely recommend it to others.”

Another parent said: “I feel very welcome and receive daily updates.”