We were delighted to welcome Early Years colleagues from across Aberdeenshire to Unlocking the Learning in Block Play today.

Inspired by Froebel’s belief in the power of play, we explored the history of block play, the developmental stages children move through as builders, and the important role adults play in observing, supporting and extending learning. Through discussion and practical experiences, we reflected on how block play can enrich learning across the curriculum, from literacy and numeracy to creativity, communication and problem-solving.

We also explored how digital tools such as Gemini Storybook, can enhance children’s learning by helping them capture, reflect on and share the stories behind their creations. Thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to a fantastic day of learning, collaboration and inspiration. 🏰🌿🏡✨

 

Innovative CPD Opportunity: Engaging Children in Permaculture for Early Years

My name Christine Mathieson from Welly Walkers Childminding Family out at Portsoy. I have just finished a fantastic course that ran for 6 weeks, 12hrs in total 2 hrs in the evening per week. It is the Introduction to Engaging Children in Permaculture part of the Permaculture Association, with lecturers/trainers Lusi Alderslowe and Annette Argabright.

As we look for innovative ways to embed sustainability and outdoor learning into our Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) provisions, I would like to tell you about the training that i stumbled on whie doing reaearch during an outdoor play module in my second year of Uni : Engaging Children in Permaculture.

Permaculture goes beyond standard  gardening. It introduces a holistic design framework rooted in three core ethics: Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share. 

• Enhancing STEM & Literacy: Providing practical, nature-based ways to deliver core curriculum outcomes.
• Boosting Child Wellbeing: Supporting sensory integration, physical confidence, and emotional resilience through active outdoor play.
• Promoting Sustainability: Directly contributing to the green initiatives by teaching waste reduction, composting, and biodiversity to the next generation.
• Maximizing Resources: Training educators to utilize free, open-ended natural materials, lowering long-term resource costs for centers.

I really wanted to shout about this CPD as I believe it can lead the way in progressive, climate-conscious early pedagogy.

The team at Banbury Cross Nursery are absolutely delighted to share that Banbury Cross Nursery has won NDNA Nursery of the Year Scotland 2026.

We travelled down to the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool for the NDNA Conference before heading to the awards ceremony that evening. It was a brilliant experience, and we were over the moon when Banbury Cross was announced as the winner.

The judges said:

“Judges praised Banbury Cross Nursery for creating a warm, caring environment and strong family relationships, reflected in glowing testimonials. A clear vision, engaging learning approaches and investment in staffing shows commitment to children’s needs, while strong staff retention highlights effective support despite its rural location.”

Hearing those comments and then winning the award made all the hard work worthwhile. After 15 years of building and growing Banbury Cross Nursery, this recognition means so much to our whole team. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together and of the caring, nurturing environment we’ve created for our children and families.

It’s a real team achievement, and we’re still smiling about it!

Recently the teams from both Flowerpots sites gathered at the Kastille in Turriff for our bi-annual staff development workshop.  Twice a year we step away from our daily routines to engage in collaborative professional discussion and in- house training. This dedicated time allows us to analyse our performance and reflect on our impact in improving outcomes for children and families. 

Key focus areas of this event included: Skills for life learning and work, developmental milestones, manual handling, health and safety, curriculum, the promise, pedagogy, and digital literacy.  We are incredibly proud of our team’s commitment to providing the highest standards of care and support for our children and families.   The level of passion and professionalism brought to these workshops was truly inspiring.  Such a valuable opportunity to learn together and we look forward to seeing the benefits of these refreshed insights in our playrooms. 

Linda McRae is excited to share that she has recently received a certificate through and is proudly the first childminder in Scotland to be on the map for the Breastfeeding friendly Scotland Award😊

Linda knew a lot with having her own 2 children but after doing this course it has given her much more information about breastfeeding.

This is a free course available to all Childminders, ELC settings and more to support building a Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland. For more information, visit the website here – Breastfeeding Friendly Scotland Scheme