Setting

Inspection report for early years provision

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EY278575 Unique Reference Number 12 June 2007 Inspection date Fran Fielder Inspector

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Childcare Type of inspection Childminding Type of care

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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

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The key inspection judgements and what they mean

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 outstanding. 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 has been a registered childminder since 2004. He lives with his wife and son aged seven in a residential area of Godalming in Surrey. His wife is also a registered childminder who belongs to an accredited childminder network and cares for children who receive nursery education funding. Both childminders have joint responsibility for the childminding practice.

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WHAT SORT OF SETTING IS IT?

The whole of the ground floor is used for childminding. Bathroom and sleeping facilities are provided on the first floor. Both front and rear gardens are fully enclosed and available for outside play. The family lives close to local shops, parks and schools.

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WHAT SORT OF SETTING IS IT?

The childminder is registered to care for a maximum of five children when working alone. This number increases to seven when working with another childminder. The childminders are currently caring for 14 children, all on a part time basis. The childminder makes provision for children with learning difficulties and for those who speak English as an additional language.

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WHAT SORT OF SETTING IS IT?

The childminder runs a childminding group for local childminders. He has an Extending Childminding Practice Certificate.

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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 outstanding. Children play in a very clean home where they develop good hygiene habits. Children use a child height portable wash hand basin which promotes independence. Nappy changing routines ensure all used nappies are disposed of properly. Extremely effective daily routines and the childminder’s own excellent practice prevent the spread of infection. For example, the childminder uses coloured chopping boards that meet with food hygiene requirements.

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Helping children to be healthy

Children enjoy a range of healthy meals and snacks made using organic foods. They record the fruit and vegetables eaten to ensure they have their 'five-a-day'. Meals introduce children to food from different countries. They enjoy risottos, beef and banana stew and stir fries when working on the topic 'Around the World'. This gives children a wide and nutritious diet encouraging healthy eating from an early age.

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Helping children to be healthy

Children enjoy a wide range of activities that keep them healthy. They play in the garden on large equipment and learn to manoeuvre wheeled toys. They kick balls and play games with a parachute. A particular favourite among the children is to dance with scarves making large movements. Outings to Winkworth Arboretum allow children to enjoy their local surroundings. Playing outside ensures children have plenty of fresh air and exercise that contributes to their good health.

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Helping children to be healthy

The childminder develops warm relationships with babies and young children. This ensures their emotional well-being is well nurtured.

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

The provision is outstanding. Children play in a wonderfully inviting home with beautiful displays that show how the childminder values children's achievements. Extremely well organised space gives children the opportunity for active and quiet play. Children easily access a fantastic selection of toys and resources that are suitable for all ages and tastes. All resources are regularly checked to ensure they are safe for children to play with. All areas are carefully monitored to ensure babies cannot access small items that might cause choking.

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

The premises are secure and regular detailed risk assessments ensure all rooms and both outdoor areas are safe for children to use. Children learn to keep themselves safe through excellent interaction which enables them to assess any potential danger. When using the climbing frame, for example, children decide for themselves which way to climb up. They choose the easier and safer option when holding items in their hands.

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Protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe

Recent training in child protection issues means the childminder has an excellent understanding of the signs and symptoms of abuse. He knows how to proceed if he has concerns about a child in his care. This safeguards children's welfare.

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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

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Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

The provision is outstanding. Children are extremely happy, relaxed and enthusiastic. They are very independent and confidently make decisions about the activities they wish to pursue. They play beautifully and learn the value of working together and taking turns. Sharing and being kind is a key part of each child's day. Consequently, they develop excellent social skills. Children enjoy their play in a caring and loving environment where they are valued as important individuals. This means children feel good about themselves and their achievements.

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Helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do

The childminder has a very good understanding of child development. He acts as a very positive role model by showing enthusiasm as he joins in games. Children enjoy a vast range of activities that support development for all ages. The childminder recognises that first hand experiences are crucial in building a solid foundation for future learning. He provides stimulating activities that capture children's interest. Children spend time listening to a wide range of music both modern and classical. They study famous paintings, grow sunflowers, take photographs to make their own passports, play with Russian dolls, make didgeridoos, dig in the sandpit and listen to stories. Art and craft activities allow children to experiment with different media and textures.

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Helping children make a positive contribution

The provision is outstanding. The childminder has an excellent understanding of equality of opportunity. He treats children with respect and values their individuality. Children have access to a wide range of resources that reflect all aspects of society. This encourages children to develop a positive attitude towards diversity. Well-planned topics and activities help children to understand and appreciate their own and other cultures. There are very good systems in place to support children with learning difficulties and those who speak English as an additional language.

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Helping children make a positive contribution

Children behave well and respond positively to the childminder's calm approach. He clearly explains why behaviour is unacceptable. Praise and encouragement ensure children feel good when they have achieved or behaved well.

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Helping children make a positive contribution

Parents are very pleased with the service provided. They receive a great deal of valuable information through a notice board and a newsletter. He keeps them informed of any training he has attended and any changes to the service. He asks for regular feedback from parents so he can improve the service he offers. He uses care diaries for young children so parents have a clear picture of their child's day. Regular verbal feedback ensures continuity of care.

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Organisation

The organisation is outstanding. Children benefit from playing in an exceptionally well-organised environment where they receive excellent adult support to make them feel secure and confident. The childminder makes very good use of time and resources to maximise children's experiences. He is enthusiastic about his role and is always looking for new and exciting ways to support children's development in all areas. He keeps up to date with good practice by attending relevant courses, meetings and using the internet. He is committed, dedicated, and keen to build his knowledge of care and education.

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Organisation

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000 All required paperwork is in place and well maintained. Written policies and procedures guide the childminder in his daily practice. This ensures children's needs are met and all relevant information is shared with parents. An excellent two-way flow of information regarding every aspect of the children's day ensures continuity of care. The information kept about children is relevant and helps promote their welfare. The childminder meets the needs of the range of children for whom he provides.

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Improvements since the last inspection

At the last inspection, the childminder agreed to review the position of the smoke alarms and the procedures for monitoring sleeping children. He also agreed to improve the condition of the perimeter fence and ensure the side gate is safe.

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Improvements since the last inspection

New smoke alarms have been purchased and fitted according to the recommendations made by the manufacturer. These are regularly tested to ensure they are in good working order. The childminder uses a baby monitor so he can easily hear when a baby wakes or cries. The perimeter fencing has been replaced with a higher fence. The side gate has been replaced and children cannot access this. These procedures ensure children's safety indoors and out.

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Complaints since the last inspection

Since the last inspection, there have been no complaints made to Ofsted that required the provider or Ofsted to take any action in order to meet the National Standards.

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Complaints since the last inspection

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.

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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 outstanding. 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

No recommendations for improvement are made because the quality and standards of care are outstanding.

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The quality and standards of the care

set out in the leaflet Complaints about Ofsted Early Years: concerns or complaints about Ofsted's role in regulating and inspecting childcare and early education (HMI ref no 2599) 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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