Friday October 30th 2026
Staff members celebrating their Grades 6 and 5.
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
Midlothian Council is celebrating the success of Hawthorn Family Learning Centre after the service received exceptional grades from the Care Inspectorate and was recognised for sector-leading practice.
The Mayfield-based centre, which supports children and families from across Midlothian through early years provision and family learning programmes, achieved the highest possible grade of Excellent (6) for both Leadership and Children are Supported to Achieve. The service was also awarded Very Good (5) for Children Play and Learn.
Inspectors highlighted the centre’s nurturing ethos, ambitious leadership and focus on achieving the best outcomes for children and families. The report found that warm, responsive relationships help children develop confidence, resilience and a strong sense of belonging, while children and families benefit from highly responsive and individualised support.
The inspection also praised Hawthorn’s trauma-informed, family-centred approach, strong culture of self-evaluation and continuous improvement, and the commitment of staff to providing high-quality learning and support. Inspectors noted that the service is influencing improvement beyond its own setting, recognising Hawthorn as demonstrating sector-leading practice.
Children were found to be highly engaged in self-directed play and benefitted from rich indoor and outdoor learning experiences, while staff demonstrated a deep understanding of children’s individual interests, strengths and developmental needs.
Councillor Ellen Scott, Midlothian Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for everyone at Hawthorn Family Learning Centre and a source of great pride for Midlothian. To achieve two Excellent grades and be recognised as sector-leading is a remarkable endorsement of the dedication, skill and compassion shown by the team every day.
“The inspection highlights the nurturing environment that has been created for children and families, where relationships, inclusion and wellbeing are at the heart of everything they do. Hawthorn’s innovative and family-centred approach is helping children to thrive, supporting families to overcome barriers and delivering positive outcomes that can last a lifetime.
“I would like to congratulate the staff, leaders, children, families and partner organisations whose commitment and hard work have contributed to this outstanding result.”
Read the full report here.
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