Inspection Reports
Little Crickets Forest School
Dean Park Nursery - Rated ‘Good’ in all areas, 2024
The April 2024 inspection was thorough and wide ranging; inspectors gathered the views of parents, interviewed staff, and spoke with children. They also observed practitioners in action, looking closely at interactions with children, day to day practice and record keeping.
Inspection Highlights
Inspectors observed the youngest children, noting that babies “benefit from a nurturing environment in which staff meet their care routines consistently and provide close comfort for them to feel secure.”
In the older age groups, children were seen to “shriek in delight” while playing with staff. Inspectors highlighted the team’s ability to respond quickly and skilfully to children’s spontaneous interests, as well as the consistently positive behaviour modelled by staff.
Recognition of Staff and Practice
The report particularly praised staff for being strong role models who help children develop positive attitudes and behaviour. The school is proud that the dedication, warmth and professionalism of its team were so clearly recognised throughout the inspection.
Park School Nursery
The nursery’s most recent Ofsted inspection took place in February 2026 under the new regulatory framework for Ofsted registered early years provision.
Inspection Highlights
The report highlights the strength of relationships that underpin daily life at the nursery. Inspectors noted that “children of all ages form warm and trusting relationships with the adults who care for them” and praised staff for being “kind, caring and respond[ing] to children’s emerging needs with sensitivity and respect.”
Recognition of Quality Learning Experiences
Inspectors also recognised the richness of the learning environment, commenting on the “wide range of engaging activities and learning experiences” available to children. They observed that children “enjoy their learning” and “progress well from their starting points,” reflecting the nursery’s commitment to high quality early education.
Governance
Our Nurseries are owned by Forfar Education, who support the nurseries with extensive knowledge and experience in running nurseries, and independent schools. They are experts in all areas of Governance, including safeguarding.
Chairman
Mr John Forsyth | [email protected]
Group Head of Early Years
Lisa McDonald | [email protected] | 07385 669528
For more information about Forfar Education, please visit www.forfareducation.co.uk