Stepping Stones Family Learning Centre: A Beacon of Excellence in Childcare

In a remarkable achievement, Stepping Stones Family Learning Centre in Stepps has received a glowing “very good” rating from the Care Inspectorate in its latest report, completed in March 2026. This assessment highlights the centre's unwavering commitment to nurturing a supportive and engaging environment for children.

Recognition of Leadership and Support

Inspectors commended the centre’s strong leadership and inclusive approach, which fosters positive relationships with families. The report emphasizes how these relationships significantly contribute to positive outcomes for children, showcasing the centre's dedication to providing quality childcare.

Positive Family Feedback

Feedback from parents has been overwhelmingly positive, with testimonials reflecting high satisfaction levels regarding staff warmth and professionalism. One parent expressed their happiness, stating, “we are extremely happy with the service and can’t fault the staff for their warmth and professionalism.” Such sentiments demonstrate the centre's strong engagement with families in their children’s learning and development.

A Commitment to Child Development

The inspection found that children at Stepping Stones are not only happy but also engaged and thriving in their play and learning. Staff have been recognized for valuing children's right to play, offering a rich variety of experiences that promote independent exploration in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Community Support and Future Aspirations

Councillor Louise Roarty, Depute Leader of North Lanarkshire Council, praised the centre's accomplishment and the critical partnerships that have been established with local families. Ann Shirra, Head of Stepping Stones, expressed her joy at receiving the positive report and reaffirmed the team's continuous effort to enhance the quality of outcomes for every child. She highlighted the importance of collaboration with families in achieving this level of success.

This report not only celebrates the impressive standards achieved at Stepping Stones Family Learning Centre but also sets a benchmark for others in the community. It underscores the vital role that dedicated educators, engaged families, and supportive leadership play in shaping resilient and thriving children.