Little Owls Nursery (Carlisle) Limited

Little Angels Nursery (Carlisle) Ltd

Inspection report for early years provision

p.1

Little Angels Nursery (Carlisle) Ltd

Unique Reference Number EY319329 Inspection date 07 June 2006 Inspector Carys Millican

p.1

Little Angels Nursery (Carlisle) Ltd

Setting Address 28 Portland Square, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA1 1PE

p.1

E-mail

Registered person Little Angels Nursery (Carlisle) Ltd Type of inspection Childcare Type of care Full day care

p.1

E-mail

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000

p.1

ABOUT THIS INSPECTION

The purpose of this inspection is to assure government, parents and the public of the quality of childcare and, if applicable, of nursery education. The inspection was carried out under Part XA Children Act 1989 as introduced by the Care Standards Act 2000 and, where nursery education is provided, under Schedule 26 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998. This report details the main strengths and any areas for improvement identified during the inspection. The judgements included in the report are made in relation to the outcomes for children set out in the Children Act 2004; the National Standards for under 8s day care and childminding; and, where nursery education is provided, the Curriculum guidance for the foundation stage. The report includes information on any complaints about the childcare provision which Ofsted has received since the last inspection or registration or 1 April 2004 whichever is the later.

p.2

The key inspection judgements and what they mean

Outstanding: this aspect of the provision is of exceptionally high quality Good: this aspect of the provision is strong Satisfactory: this aspect of the provision is sound Inadequate: this aspect of the provision is not good enough For more information about early years inspections, please see the booklet Are you ready for your inspection? which is available from Ofsted's website: www.ofsted.gov.uk.

p.2

THE QUALITY AND STANDARDS OF THE CARE

On the basis of the evidence collected on this inspection:

p.2

THE QUALITY AND STANDARDS OF THE CARE

The quality and standards of the care are satisfactory. The registered person meets the National Standards for under 8s day care and childminding.

p.2

WHAT SORT OF SETTING IS IT?

Little Angels Nursery (Carlisle) Ltd is privately owned. It opened in 2006 and operates from within a mid-terraced town house, in Carlisle city centre. A maximum of 38 children may attend the nursery at any one time. The nursery is open each weekday, from 07.45 to 17.45, for 52 weeks of the year. There is no outdoor play area at present. There are currently 26 children, aged from three months to under five years on roll. Children come from a wide catchment area.

p.2

WHAT SORT OF SETTING IS IT?

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000 The nursery employs six members of staff. Of these, five hold appropriate early years qualifications.

p.2

Helping children to be healthy

The provision is satisfactory. Children's health is suitably promoted by staff, who have a satisfactory knowledge of the setting's health and hygiene procedures. Children begin to learn basic hygiene practices following gentle reminders from staff. They learn by example, as the staff wash their own hands and encourage the children to wash their hands after having their nappies changed. Children’s independence is encouraged by staff providing appropriate equipment, such as toilet seats and steps. Children are generally protected from the risk of potential infection; however, changing mats are not wiped down after use or in-between changing different children. Children generally have their nappies changed following the nursery routine, rather than in accordance with their individual need's. Established health and hygiene routines are followed by staff, in the preparation, handling and serving of food. Tables are wiped before meals and

p.3

Helping children to be healthy

areas cleaned after eating. Children’s welfare and the protection of other children is fully considered by staff following the sick children’s policy. The children begin to learn about healthy eating. They are provided with a selection of healthy snacks and a variety of home made meals. Menus are in place, showing a balanced diet and healthy eating is promoted. Children enjoy the social occasion created at mealtimes, as babies and older children come together to eat. Babies and young children independence and self help skills are encouraged. They learn social skills, as staff encourage table manners. Children’s dietary needs are met, as staff follow children’s individual requirements and parental wishes closely. Children are provided with a range of drinks at mealtimes; however, fresh drinking water is not available to children at all times. Children enjoy the free play and adult-initiated activities, which are available in the

p.3

Helping children to be healthy

spacious surroundings. They play on the sit and ride and rocking toys in the spacious playrooms, confidently and carefully manoeuvring the toy prams round the room. Children enjoy the activities provided, and their concentration and interest is maintained throughout their time in the nursery. However, children’s access to outdoor physical play and activities is limited. Quieter activities are provided for children, as they listen to stories and sing songs. Children's individual sleeping routines are followed and a separate sleep room available for babies, which staff regularly monitor.

p.3

Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

The provision is satisfactory. Children are cared for in a warm, welcoming and well-maintained environment. They confidently move around the spacious rooms, helping themselves to a safe and

p.3

Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000 suitable range of resources and activities. Staff check the equipment regularly for loose or broken parts and ensure babies cannot access small part toys. The environment is colourful and inviting. Children’s art work is creatively displayed creating a sense of belonging. The children are generally kept safe and secure. Safety gates are used throughout the building and radiators are well protected. Risks of accidental injury to children are minimised because staff use risk assessments that help reduce potential hazards. Staff check the environment is safe before children arrive. This practice means that children are able to move around safely, freely and independently. Children cannot leave the premises unsupervised and unauthorised persons cannot enter the building. The reception area door is carefully monitored by staff who supervise this

p.3

Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

area when children and parents arrive. Children are kept safe through the registration procedures followed by staff, and staff ensure children, staff and visitor attendance is recorded. Children begin to understand how to keep themselves safe by the gentle reminders from staff. Staff explain to children why not to kneel on the chairs during snack time, and encourage them to tidy away toys after use. The fire fighting equipment is in place, and the fire evacuation procedure is displayed; however, there is no clearly defined procedure to evacuate children from the upper levels of the building. The fire drill has not been practiced by staff, or when caring for children, and staff are not fully aware of their role and responsibilities in the event of a fire. This compromises children’s safety. The children are protected by staff who have a sound understanding of child protection policy and procedures, and give priority to children’s welfare. Collection

p.4

Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

procedures ensure the correct person picks up a child from the nursery. A written child protection statement is maintained; however, contact details and telephone numbers are missing.

p.4

Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

The provision is satisfactory. Children’s enjoyment and achievement is promoted through the caring and relaxed atmosphere created by the staff. Children are happy and contented. They settle well and enjoy their time at the nursery. They are enthusiastic and self-assured in their play, helping themselves to the activities and resources available, which support their development. The Birth to three matters framework is displayed and planning is in its early stages. Staff are aware of the framework and have undertaken additional training. Play plans are in place, which are colour-coded and used throughout the nursery. These ensure children get a wide and varied selection of activities, resources and experiences throughout the week. A flexible approach to planning and a good balance between adult and child-led activities allows children to make choices and decisions, as well as acquire new skills. Daily diaries record individual children’s

p.4

Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

eating, sleeping and toileting routines, as well as containing brief notes about the child’s day. Indoors, the children are provided with a range of opportunities to play, explore and have fun. However, opportunities for outdoor activities are limited.

p.4

Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000 The children benefit from warm, close and caring relationships with staff, which increase children’s sense of trust and helps them develop a strong sense of self. Adult-child interactions are very supportive of communication skills and extend experiences. Young children interact well with staff; they watch and listen, as their key worker puts the circular shapes onto the stacking toy, and then she encourages them to have a go. Older children listen to instructions and enthusiastically sing songs and action rhymes, which are fully supported by the staff. Staff have a sound knowledge, understanding and experience in caring for a range of different ages. Children develop confidence and self-esteem through the interaction, care, love and attention they share with the staff. The children relate well to each other and socialise

p.4

Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

well, building up sound relationships with adults and other children. They begin to distinguish between right and wrong, and learn to take turns playing with toys and share resources. Children learn patience, as they learn to wait till others have finished playing with a particular toy or resource, fully supported by the positive environment created. Younger children benefit from regular contact with older children during the day. Young children's transfer to the older group follows their needs and individual development.

p.5

Helping children make a positive contribution

The provision is satisfactory. Children and parents are made welcome. Children’s individual needs are known and met by staff in discussion with their parents on registration. Children settle well into the routine of the setting and transfer to the older group easily. Children's understanding of equality is promoted through activities that encourage equal play. An all inclusive environment is created. Children play well together. They access toys and equipment easily, and staff encourage all children to take part in the activities. Children's awareness of diversity is promoted through the resources that explore other cultures and promote positive images. The children are well behaved and respond well to the staff's effective strategies, such as giving time to listen, praising achievements and providing individual support and comfort. Children enjoy mutually respectful relationships with the staff and each

p.5

Helping children make a positive contribution

other. They begin to develop confidence and self-esteem, and make choices and decisions about their play. Equipment and resources are adapted to ensure all children are able to participate fully. Children are familiar with the setting's routine. They help tidy up before snack time and settle down for a nap after lunch. Children benefit from the sound partnership with parents. The children settle well into the nursery, supported by the induction arrangements agreed with their parents. Parents are happy with the care their children receive, and praise the friendliness of the staff caring for their children. Information about the nursery is shared at registration and written information is available in a detailed prospectus. Information is collected during the day and recorded in a daily diary. Staff inform parents about their child’s time with them on collection. Policies and procedures are maintained;

p.5

Helping children make a positive contribution

however, they are not readily accessible to parents. The complaints procedure is not displayed or updated with recent changes, and a complaints register is not in place. Written information is obtained from parents and used to ensure continuity of care is

p.5

Helping children make a positive contribution

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000 maintained.

p.5

Organisation

The organisation is satisfactory. The registered person uses robust recruitment procedures and appropriately vets and checks staff have suitable qualifications and experience. Staff undertake additional relevant training to update their knowledge and understanding of key issues, to enable continuous improvement and development. The induction programme makes sure staff are aware of the settings policies and procedures. Staff work well together as a team to promote children’s health, enjoyment and achievement. The adult-to-child ratio supports children’s care, learning and play. Children are cared for in an interesting and stimulating environment. The premises are well organised. Children benefit from a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and staff create a relaxed and homely feel to the nursery. Indoor space is laid out to maximise play opportunities for children. The children feel at home and at ease within

p.6

Organisation

the environment. This means they are confident to initiate and extend their own play and learning, during child-initiated play and planned activities. Most documentation, policies and procedures are in place, which enables the smooth running of the nursery and that generally promote children’s safety and welfare. Information is shared with parents on a daily basis. Children receive a good level of individual attention. Their individual needs are known, and all the children are included and supported. Overall, the provision meets the needs of the range of children for whom it provides.

p.6

Complaints since the last inspection

There are no complaints made to Ofsted since registration. The provider is required to keep a record of complaints made by parents, which they can see on request. The complaints record may contain complaints other than those made to Ofsted.

p.6

THE QUALITY AND STANDARDS OF THE CARE

On the basis of the evidence collected on this inspection:

p.6

THE QUALITY AND STANDARDS OF THE CARE

The quality and standards of the care are satisfactory. The registered person meets the National Standards for under 8s day care and childminding.

p.6

THE QUALITY AND STANDARDS OF THE CARE

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000

p.6

The quality and standards of the care

To improve the quality and standards of care further the registered person should take account of the following recommendation(s): • make sure nappy changing takes place in accordance with children's individual needs, that staff follow good hygiene practices when changing nappies and that nappy changing facilities meet environmental health recommendations • make sure a clearly defined procedure for the emergency evacuation of children from first and second floor rooms is maintained and practised regularly with staff and children • make sure sufficient opportunities are created for children to access outdoor activities including physical play.

p.7

The quality and standards of the care

procedures set out in the leaflet Building better childcare: Compliments and concerns about inspectors' judgements which is available from Ofsted's website: www.ofsted.gov.uk

p.7

The quality and standards of the care

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000

p.7