Harvey, Deborah Gail

Inspection report for early years provision

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Unique reference number 252466 Inspection date 15/10/2009 Inspector Susan Riley

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Type of setting Childminder to achieve excellence in the care of children and young people, and in education and skills for learners of all ages. It regulates and inspects childcare and children's social care, and inspects the Children and Family Court Advisory Support Service (Cafcass), schools, colleges, initial teacher training, work-based learning and skills training, adult and community learning, and education and training in prisons and other secure establishments. It rates council children’s services, and inspects services for looked after children, safeguarding and child protection. If you would like a copy of this document in a different format, such as large print or Braille, please telephone 08456 404040, or email enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk . You may copy all or parts of this document for non-commercial educational purposes, as long as you give details of the source and date of publication and do not alter the information in any way.

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Royal Exchange Buildings St Ann's Square Manchester M2 7LA

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T: 08456 404040 Textphone: 0161 618 8524 E: enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk W: www.ofsted.gov.uk This inspection was carried out under sections 49 and 50 of the Childcare Act 2006

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Introduction

This inspection was carried out by Ofsted under Sections 49 and 50 of the Childcare Act 2006 on the quality and standards of the registered early years provision. ‘Early years provision’ refers to provision regulated by Ofsted for children from birth to 31 August following their fifth birthday (the early years age group). The registered person must ensure that this provision complies with the statutory framework for children’s learning, development and welfare, known as the Early Years Foundation Stage.

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Introduction

The provider must provide a copy of this report to all parents with children at the setting where reasonably practicable. The provider must provide a copy of the report to any other person who asks for one, but may charge a fee for this service (The Childcare (Inspection) Regulations 2008 regulations 9 and 10).

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Introduction

The setting also makes provision for children older than the early years age group which is registered on the voluntary and/or compulsory part(s) of the Childcare Register. This report does not include an evaluation of that provision, but a comment about compliance with the requirements of the Childcare Register is included in Annex B.

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Introduction

Please see our website for more information about each childcare provider. We publish inspection reports, conditions of registration and details of complaints we receive where we or the provider take action to meet the requirements of registration. This inspection was carried out under sections 49 and 50 of the Childcare Act 2006

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Description of the childminding

The childminder was registered in 1993. She lives with her husband and two adult sons in a suburb of Nottingham. There are facilities close by such as a park, school and shops. The childminder is registered to care for a maximum of six children at any one time and is currently caring for five children in the early years range. The childminder is caring for children with whom English is an additional language. She is registered on the Early Years Register and the voluntary and compulsory parts of the Childcare Register. The childminder holds a recognised early years qualification.

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Description of the childminding

Most of the childminder’s house is used for childminding and there is a fully enclosed garden for outside play. The childminder takes and collects children from a couple of schools and pre-schools. She also attends the local parent and toddler groups and childminding support groups. The childminder is a member of the National Childminding Association.

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The overall effectiveness of the early years provision

Overall the quality of the provision is outstanding.

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The overall effectiveness of the early years provision

The childminder has a well developed knowledge of each child’s needs and ensures that she successfully promotes their welfare and learning. An extremely child- friendly environment is created to ensure all children are included and enjoy their time with the childminder. The partnerships with parents and the local pre-school are a key strength and are significant in making sure that the needs of all children are well met. This means that children progress very well, given their age, ability and starting points. The childminder is highly committed to improvement and through the excellent use of reflective practice and self-evaluation she identifies and takes positive actions which improve the outcomes for children.

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further?

To further improve the high quality early years provision the registered person should consider:

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further?

 ensuring confidentiality is maintained with reference to the recording of accidents.

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the early years provision

Children are safeguarded as the childminder understands her role to protect them from harm. The childminder has a comprehensive awareness of safeguarding issues and attends regular training. Parents are reassured because the childminder provides information about how she is registered, about vetting arrangements for herself and other household members over 16, and about her experience and This inspection was carried out under sections 49 and 50 of the Childcare Act 2006 training. Through sensitive and ongoing discussions the childminder helps young children to understand ways to minimise the risk of harm to themselves. For example, when out walking the childminder talks about road safety issues and other hazards to raise children's awareness of danger. The childminder has devised and implemented her own policies and procedures and these are to a high standard and cover all elements of her exceptional practice. She has rigorous

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the early years provision

monitoring systems in place for documents and systems to ensure they are kept to a high standard. However, accident records do not always maintain confidentiality. The childminder pays high regard to promoting children's safety and every aspect is well considered. For example, full detailed risk assessments are completed on the home and for all outings. Regular checks ensure these remain relevant and protect the children from harm. All areas accessible to the children are thoughtfully organised to allow freedom to explore, direct access to a wealth of freely chosen resources and safe areas in which to play and relax. The playroom has defined areas covering all areas of learning, children clearly benefit and thrive as a result of the environment. All children make excellent progress towards the early learning goals. The childminder has a sound understanding of the needs of all the children she cares for, including those for whom English is their second language. Parents

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the early years provision

support the childminder, by sharing key words to enable the child to settle and feel valued. The childminder is very inclusive in her practice in treating all children equally, at the same time being very aware of their individual needs and levels of understanding.

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the early years provision

The childminder uses reflective practice effectively to continuously monitor her provision and the children's achievements and to plan for ongoing improvement. She has a strong commitment to improving her own knowledge and keeping up-to- date with all new initiatives relating to the care and education of children, which is demonstrated through her admirable record of professional development. For example, she has recently completed a Level 3 qualification in childcare and wants to take further training. Progress since the last inspection has been very good, especially in relation to the implementation of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and promoting children's learning. The one recommendation raised at the last inspection has been fully addressed. Parents receive good information about the childminder's business arrangements and share what they know about their child at the time of starting. Daily discussions and diaries keep both parents and

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the early years provision

the childminder informed so that any changing needs are responded to quickly. The childminder keeps parents well informed of their children's progress in a variety of ways and encourages them to contribute to the children's individual development records so that a complete picture is built. She utilises parental comments and feedback from questionnaires to constantly reflect upon her practice. Relationships with other providers who care for the children are becoming well established. The childminder is proactive in initiating contact and seeking ways to work collaboratively to benefit the children. For example, written termly records are shared between herself and the pre-school group to ensure they both can meet the children’s developing and learning needs effectively. This inspection was carried out under sections 49 and 50 of the Childcare Act 2006

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and outcomes for children

The childminder's sound knowledge of child development and her effective implementation of the principles of the EYFS lead to children having first-rate experiences and opportunities to be active learners. She ensures that children learn through a highly stimulating and welcoming environment where their own interests and ideas are of paramount importance. The play areas provides for a wide range of play opportunities whilst retaining a homely feel that helps younger children to feel secure. Activities and resources are within all children's reach enabling them to make decisions in what they use and how they combine play materials together. The childminder supports children’s learning in a highly effective way. With the support of the adults the children learn how to work cooperatively and develop high levels of personal independence. The childminder plans experiences based around children's current interests and linked closely to

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and outcomes for children

their learning and development needs. Thorough observation and rigorous assessment ensure these are well-matched to their needs and result in the children making excellent progress in all areas of their learning. The childminder ensures that she provides an active and realistic curriculum that is available both in and outdoors.

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and outcomes for children

Children are extremely confident and self-assured as they play. They often play in small friendship groups, in which all ages of children are fully included. Older children show a caring attitude towards the younger children and help them with the resources. For example, they show them how to use the magnifying glass. Excellent use of language and knowledge of extensive vocabulary enables children to express themselves clearly. Children visibly develop a love of books and enjoy listening to stories and reading for their own pleasure or knowledge. Children's developing imagination is ably supported with an extensive range of play items that allows them to recreate familiar experiences such as going on an aeroplane or visiting the garage. Their independence is fostered as they find their own shoes and coat and attempt to put these on before going outdoors. The childminder is very conscious of each child’s abilities and is aware of when to stand back or offer

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and outcomes for children

her support. Children are currently learning in a fun way about the number and value of six. They enjoy playing in the sensory tent and have fun with the torches and glow in the dark items. Children have recently grown their own tomatoes and they demonstrate great pride in their produce.

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and outcomes for children

Children's health is successfully promoted as they are provided with nutritional meals and snacks that encourage them to enjoy foods that are good for them. Mealtimes are relaxed social occasions that provide good opportunities to share news. They understand and follow good hygiene procedures, being clear about the importance of hand washing and using their own flannels and individual towels for drying. Children are given gentle reminders to put their hand to their mouth when coughing. They develop a very good understanding of safety because the childminder talks through what children are doing. Children's behaviour is commendable. They show respect for others and many of their actions show thought and consideration, especially for younger children. Their self-esteem is fostered through the use of positive praise. Resources and activities reflect the This inspection was carried out under sections 49 and 50 of the Childcare Act 2006

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and outcomes for children

wider community and with support successfully help children raise their understanding of the world in which they live. Many opportunities are taken to familiarise the children with the local environment and to enhance their lives with outings and trips. Regular attendance at groups such as toddler groups and childminding support groups helps children socialise with a wider group of adults and peers. Overall, children develop the skills needed for their future success. They are confident, independent learners who are able to use their own initiative to solve problems. They know how to work cooperatively with others but also have the ability to work independently with a high degree of confidence. This ensures they are well prepared for future success. This inspection was carried out under sections 49 and 50 of the Childcare Act 2006

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Annex A: record of inspection judgements

The key inspection judgements and what they mean

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Annex A: record of inspection judgements

Grade 1 is Outstanding: this aspect of the provision is of exceptionally high quality Grade 2 is Good: this aspect of the provision is strong Grade 3 is Satisfactory: this aspect of the provision is sound Grade 4 is Inadequate: this aspect of the provision is not good enough

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children in the Early Years Foundation Stage?

The capacity of the provision to maintain continuous improvement

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and managed?

The effectiveness of leadership and management in embedding ambition and driving improvement The effectiveness with which the setting deploys resources 1 The effectiveness with which the setting promotes equality and diversity The effectiveness of safeguarding 1 The effectiveness of the setting’s self-evaluation, including the steps taken to promote improvement The effectiveness of partnerships 1 The effectiveness of the setting’s engagement with parents and carers

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Stage

The quality of the provision in the Early Years Foundation Stage 1

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Stage

The extent to which children achieve and enjoy their learning 1 The extent to which children feel safe 1 The extent to which children adopt healthy lifestyles 1 The extent to which children make a positive contribution 1 The extent to which children develop skills for the future 1

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Stage

procedures set out in the guidance available from Ofsted’s website: www.ofsted.gov.uk This inspection was carried out under sections 49 and 50 of the Childcare Act 2006

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Annex B: the Childcare Register

The provider confirms that the requirements of the compulsory part of the Childcare Register are: Met

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Annex B: the Childcare Register

The provider confirms that the requirements of the voluntary part of the Childcare Register are: Met

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