The highlights of the recent inspection report of Riccarton Early Childhood Centre naturally impressed the Tes Schools Award Judges.

It points to inspirational leadership, an enthusiastic team, confident children and involved parents, a focus on improvement and finally a “superb” use of data.

But it was the centre’s approach to trauma-informed practice that particularly stood out for lead judge and early education specialist Laura Henry-Allain, which she said is particularly important for early years settings.

“What jumped out is the work around the trauma-informed practice - I thought that was super important, especially with what has been going on in the past few years - the variety of training, the home visits they have in place,” she said.

“I like that they are quite effective in their tracking and monitoring of what they do, and they have a strong focus on literacy and numeracy as well as health and wellbeing.

“And they continuously provide a stimulating environment: it’s a real focus on the needs of the child in terms of their interests, creativity and curiosity.”

The entry from the school, which built a woodland area for children with fundraising from parents, reads: “Children are given time, freedom and space to develop their ideas. The wide range of experiences ensure children develop necessary skills for life, work and learning. This includes a wide range of visits out with the centre and visitors who regularly come in to support the learning.”

Ms Henry-Allain added: “It was an honour to be a judge at this year’s Tes awards. It was inspiring to see such a wide range of nominees from across the UK taking part. All of the winners fully deserve their awards.”