Awards 2012: Organisations - Nursery of the year

The judges report that a particularly striking characteristic of this year's shortlisted nurseries has been the sympathetic, generous and effective way that managers and staff understand the needs of individual families.

Informal talks with parents during the judging visits highlighted how much all the nurseries are valued. However, parents from The Cottage Kindergarten in Helensburgh are particularly delighted and impressed by the tireless way the head and staff work for the benefit of their children, and much appreciate their accessibility and attention to detail. The judges agreed with their views, and considered that this is the nursery that deserves the 2012 award.

The kindergarten offers sessional nursery care and education in the mornings and afternoons, with an optional lunch club. Staff have developed a coherent and ambitious curriculum in line with the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence over the five or six terms the children are with them. The team's plans are informed by detailed observations of the children's learning and development, which are beautifully presented in books shared with families and much enjoyed by the children.

The key person role is particularly well developed and this, together with a high ratio of adults to children and a philosophy shared with families as well as within the staff team, means that each individual is understood and appreciated.

The manager has very high standards and an ambitious vision, shared by a team of well-qualified and dedicated staff, who have almost all worked with her since the nursery was established three years ago.

The Cottage Kindergarten is a delightful place to be. The stimulating environment promotes enquiry and adventure, balanced by secure routines and excellent individual support for all involved. Children's ideas are taken seriously by the staff, who welcome and extend their individual interests and preoccupations, while the mutually-respectful and rewarding relationships with families enhance the notable progress children make in all aspects of their development.

Finalists

Droitwich Spa Nursery and Kindergarten, Droitwich, Worcestershire

Greenacres at Priory Road, Hampton, Middlesex

Nature Trails Day Nursery, Rugby, Warwickshire

The Tadpoles Nursery, Maldon, Essex

Criterion

Open to registered settings offering full daycare (private, voluntary or maintained sector).