AN out of school club in Peebles which was heavily criticised by inspectors last year has received a glowing report card.

School's Out, which operates in the Community Centre in Walkershaugh, provides childcare for up to 35 school pupils from primary one up to S2.

But the service received a damning report last May following a visit from the Care Inspectorate.

Inspectors graded the quality of staffing and the quality of management as 'weak'.

And the standard of care for the children was only marked as 'adequate'.

On April 28 the government's watchdog body carried out a follow-up, unannounced inspection at School's Out and found progress had been made.

They also found that a list of improvement recommendations and requirements from the previous inspection had all been met.

And this week they published their findings from the most recent inspection.

A spokesperson for the Care Inspectorate said: "As a result of meeting requirements we made at the last inspection, there was now compliance with regards to the safe recruitment of staff.

"This meant that thorough interviews were undertaken and the necessary background and registration checks were carried out prior to staff starting their post.

Staff received good support in their roles through daily chats, staff meetings and regular appraisals.

"The manager had implemented a more systematic approach to meetings which now gave staff time to reflect and plan improvements."

Following this latest inspection, the quality of care and support was graded as 'very good'.

And the level of management, staffing and environment were all classed as 'good'.

The spokesperson added: "Children were overwhelmingly positive about their time and experiences at the service.

"They told us they enjoyed themselves because they could choose the activities and outings and were able to play with their friends. They described the staff as 'nice', 'easy to talk too' and 'funny'.

"Parents spoken to were delighted with the high level of care and support given to their children.

"They were full of praise about the activities, outings and the staff team."