Childminder in WiganOfsted inspection, 16 May 2005

Inspection report for early years provision

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Unique Reference Number EY298080 Inspection date 16 May 2005 Inspector Ann, Theresa Flynn

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Type of inspection Childcare Type of care Childminding

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

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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.

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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.

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THE QUALITY AND STANDARDS OF THE CARE

On the basis of the evidence collected on this inspection:

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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.

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WHAT SORT OF SETTING IS IT?

The childminder was registered in 2004. She lives with her husband and two children aged three and twelve years, along with a large dog, in the Winstanley area of Wigan. The majority of the premises are used for childminding however, this does not include the outdoor area. The childminder has five children on roll whom she cares for at various times during both the week days and during weekends.

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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

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Helping children to be healthy

The provision is satisfactory. Children are beginning to understand how to keep themselves healthy through personal hygiene routines. They wash their hands following play and after visiting the toilet and prior to meals. Children are well nourished. The childminder provides meals which cater for children's dietary requirements. They are nutritious and provide a balanced diet. Children’s thirst is quenched by frequent access to drinks which are regularly provided. Children do not have sufficient opportunities to run, jump and climb outdoors which is due to extensive building work on premises. Therefore, this limits children's access to fresh air and exercise.

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

The provision is satisfactory. Children are provided with age appropriate resources. The childminder supervises the choice of toys to restrict unsuitable toys being given to young children. Children's safety is sometimes compromised within the setting. Issues of safety were highlighted in relation to trailing wires, old disused electrical sockets, kitchen cupboards locks are ineffective and kitchen drawer's were not fitted with locks. These aspects of safety pose a danger to children. Children are protected because the childminder knows her role in relation to child protection and has appropriate procedures that could be put into place should there be any concerns.

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Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

The provision is satisfactory. Children are developing their self esteem and confidence through appropriate praise and encouragement which is provided for children's various achievements. Children’s imagination is satisfactory and is promoted adequately. For example, by use of activities involving role play which enable the children to act out experiences such as home life. Children enjoy positive relationships with the childminder. They are developing their social skills by being with others. Children's access to a broad range of activities is limited due the present limitations

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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 of space, especially in relation to outdoor activities. Therefore, lack of choice inhibits the development of children's personal independence.

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Helping children make a positive contribution

The provision is satisfactory. Children are generally well behaved and are developing their awareness of what is considered to be acceptable behaviour. The childminder is proactive in developing children's positive behaviour. The use of praise and encouragement helps children to understand a sense of right from wrong. Children’s individual needs are satisfactorily met. The childminder engages in discussion with parents about their individual needs in various aspects of their care and development. However, in order to enhance consistency of care, information should be provided to parents to ensure they are kept informed. Children's awareness of the wider world is limited. The childminder demonstrates some awareness of equal opportunity and how older children discuss issues such as racism and bullying. However, younger children lack opportunities to develop their views of the wider world and increase their awareness of diversity.

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Organisation

The organisation is satisfactory. Children are relatively safe and the childminder seeks some training to enhance her knowledge, skills and abilities to enhance the service she provides for children. Document's are in line with National Standards, including up to date First Aid Certificate, polices and procedures, which are effective and help to keep children safe. The childminder meets the needs of the range of children for whom care is provided.

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Complaints since the last inspection

There are no complaints to report since registration.

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THE QUALITY AND STANDARDS OF THE CARE

On the basis of the evidence collected on this inspection:

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

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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): • ensure safety issues relating to trailing wires, disused electrical sockets, kitchen cupboards and drawers receive attention • develop the range of activities available to children, especially involving outdoor play • develop children's awareness of diversity and resources which reflect diversity • develop information provided to parents to ensure they are kept informed.

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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

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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

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