Castle View Private Day Nursery

INSPECTION DETAILS

Inspection Date 15/03/2004 Inspector Name Marilyn Besford

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SETTING DETAILS

Day Care Type Full Day Care Setting Name Castle View Private Day Nursery Setting Address Blind Lane Chester le Street Durham DH3 4AF

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REGISTERED PROVIDER DETAILS

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000; and Section 122 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998

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ABOUT THE INSPECTION

The purpose of this inspection is to assure government, parents and the public of the quality and standard of day care in accordance with the National Standards for Under Eights Day Care and Childminding; and that the nursery education for funded three and four year old children is of an acceptable quality. Inspection of nursery education also identifies strengths and weaknesses so that providers can improve the quality of educational provision and help children to achieve the early learning goals (elgs) by the end of the Foundation Stage. This inspection report must be made available to all parents. If the setting has been inspected previously, an action plan will have been drawn up to tackle issues identified. This inspection, therefore, must also assess what progress has been made in the implementation of this plan.

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Information about the setting

Castle View Private Day Nursery opened in its present premises in 1997. It provides care for children from birth to seven years of age. It operates in self-contained premises on the edge of Chester-le-Street. It provides care for children from a wide surrounding area. There are currently 176 children on the roll. This includes 39 funded three-year-olds and 20 funded four-year-olds. Children attend for a variety of sessions. Eighty nine children were present during the inspection. The setting currently supports children with special needs and who speak English as an additional language. The nursery opens five days a week, all year round except bank holidays, from 07:30 to 18:00. Twenty-eight staff work with the children, including the manager who is supernumerary. Eighteen are full-time, seven part-time and three are supply staff. Twenty have early years qualifications to NVQ level three or two. The nursery is a member of the National Day Nurseries Association, has started

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Information about the setting

Quality Counts accreditation and receives support from a link teacher.

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How good is the Day Care?

Castle View Private Day Nursery provides a good standard of daycare in a warm and welcoming environment. There are clear policies and procedures in place which form an effective operational plan for the setting, although the child protection procedure needs further development. Staff understand their responsibilities under the National Standards. Their level of relevant qualifications is good and there is an effective induction, supervision and training programme. Good systems are in place for keeping records about children's care, welfare and progress. The premises are comfortable, bright and welcoming. Space is used well to care for children of different ages and there is good provision for outdoor play. The nursery

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How good is the Day 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; and Section 122 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998 has suitable furnishings, equipment and play materials for the children cared for. Staff follow good health and safety procedures on the premises and on outings, ensuring children are safeguarded from harm. Children are offered varied and nutritious snacks and meals, with good attention paid to any special dietary needs. Their welfare is promoted with suitable health and hygiene practices and medication procedures although parents' clear consent for emergency medical treatment is not recorded. Children's individual and special needs are recognised and met well. They take part in enjoyable activities which have regard for all aspects of their development. They have good relationships with staff, who are supportive and manage their behaviour

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How good is the Day Care?

well. Nursery staff work in partnership with parents to meet the needs of the children, sharing information effectively, and as a result, children are happy and settled.

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What has improved since the last inspection?

At the last inspection, the proprietor agreed to make drinking water available to children at all times, make the outdoor sandpit safe, make hazardous plants inaccessible to children and develop an operational plan and procedures that have regard for the Code of Practice for the identification and assessment of Special Educational Needs. Water is now available in all rooms, a lid ensures the sandpit's safety, supervision in the garden and fenced areas for free play ensure children are not at risk from hazardous plants and an operational plan has been developed which includes consideration for the Code of Practice.

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What is being done well?

• The premises are bright and welcoming for children and parents, with attractive displays of children's creative work and photographs of activities throughout. The organisation and layout of each of the rooms, used by children of different age groups, separates the space into different areas where children can move around freely for different activities and learning experiences. The babies' room is a warm and inviting environment, with plenty of space for them to explore when mobile. An adjoining room provides a calm and quiet area for rest. • Staff pay attention to children's safety. They carry out risk assessments to identify and minimize any potential hazards.They maintain careful supervision of the children while encouraging them to develop a sense of independence. They follow thorough security procedures, with controlled access at the nursery entrance and effective systems for the arrival and collection of

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What is being done well?

children. • Children of all ages take part in enjoyable and stimulating play activities which are planned to have regard for all aspects of their development. Staff know the children well and give full consideration to their individual and special needs. They are supportive and encouraging, with the result that

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What is being done well?

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000; and Section 122 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998 children are confident, happy and secure. • Staff have a calm and consistent approach to behaviour management, taking account of children's age and understanding. They are positive, using praise and encouragement and setting a good example in their own behaviour, and children respond well with good behaviour throughout the nursery. • The relationship between parents and nursery staff is good. There are effective systems for exchanging information, including a brochure, written policies, children's written records and daily diaries, photographs, noticeboards, displays, parents' evenings and daily contact with children's key workers. Through this partnership, children's needs are identified and met well.

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What needs to be improved?

• the consent for seeking emergency medical advice or treatment • the child protection procedures to be followed in the event of an allegation being made against a member of staff.

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CONDITIONS OF REGISTRATION

All registered persons must comply with all conditions of registration included on his/her certificate of registration. As a result of this inspection conditions of registration have been imposed / varied / removed and a new certificate of registration will be issued.

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by the time of the next inspection

Std Recommendation 7 Request written permission from parents for seeking emergency medical advice or treatment. 13 Develop child protection procedures to be followed in the event of an allegation being made against a member of staff.

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by the time of the next inspection

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000; and Section 122 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998

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How effective is the nursery education?

Castle View Nursery provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere where children settle well and make very good progress towards all the early learning goals. The quality of teaching is very good. Staff are enthusiastic and work well together to provide an interesting curriculum. Planning is very good and the sessions run smoothly. The staff provide children with a stimulating learning environment in which to learn and play. Interaction with the children is very good and results in children developing good communication skills and enables them to communicate effectively with both adults and children. Staff provide very good role models for children and manage behaviour very well. The leadership and management of the group is very good. Staff are aware of their roles and responsibilities, and work accordingly, resulting in the group running very well. The staff are encouraged to attend training as identified in development plans.

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How effective is the nursery education?

Staff are aware of their individual strengths and weaknesses and act on their evaluation to improve their knowledge, understanding and practice. They work together well as a team. Partnership with parents is very good. Parents are provided with good information about the nursery and how it is organised. Staff use the notice board to display the early learning goals, and they link planning to these notices. Parents are encouraged to contribute to the group, and talk freely with staff.

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What is being done well?

• Staff give high priority to nurturing children's personal,social and emotional development. Children are developing very good relationships and behaviour is of a high standard. • Children are given regular opportunities to practise their writing skills and develop their knowledge of letter sounds. • Children are beginning to solve simple mathematical problems through everyday activities. • Staff effectively help the children become more aware of the environment and natural world through first hand experiences and inviting visitors to the group. • Children are able to express themselves imaginatively and are able to represent their feelings in large and small groups. • Children are able to explore and experiment with colour and texture. • Staff and management work hard and are able to address their strengths and weaknesses to ensure children reach their full potential within the early learning goals before they leave the setting.

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What is being done well?

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000; and Section 122 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998 • Parents are made to feel welcome, valued and necessary through a range of planned and spontaneous opportunities.

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What needs to be improved?

• extend problem solving activities for older and more able children • encourage children to develop a sense of place through a range of planned activities.

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What has improved since the last inspection?

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000; and Section 122 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998

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PERSONAL, SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Very Good Children relate very well to one another and to adults. They are confident and happy and are developing independence and self care skills. Children behave very well, with staff providing positive role models. Children are able to make connections between home and nursery, both in family members and events

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COMMUNICATION, LANGUAGE AND LITERACY

Judgement: Very Good Children are provided with a rich environment in which they are developing their thinking, language and writing skills and their understanding that print carries a message. Children use the book corner, reading books front to back and left to right. Children are developing a knowledge of letter sounds. They listen attentively to stories and are able to re tell favourites

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MATHEMATICAL DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Very Good Children are aware of number in all areas of group life. Numbers are displayed around the room and children confidently count to ten and above. Children are able to access a range of equipment to support their learning, including calculators which they use confidently. Older children are beginning to solve mathematical problems with the support of staff however this should be extended

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KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE WORLD

Judgement: Very Good Children develop a very good awareness of their environment. Staff organise interesting activities to develop understanding and support this with visitors to the group. Children develop an understanding of time and are able to differentiate between yesterday tomorrow and today. They use the computer with and without support. Children develop a sound understanding of various cultures and festivals through first hand experiences, however this could be extended to develop a sense of place.

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PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Very Good Children move confidentially within the group, negotiating furniture as required. They express their feelings both in large and small groups. They use small tools with skill and confidence. They are aware of their own bodily functions and how to keep themselves healthy.

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PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000; and Section 122 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998

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CREATIVE DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Very Good Children are able to explore and experiment with colours and textures including colour mixing. They are able to recognise and match both two and three dimensional shapes, differentiate between them and discuss the differences. Children explore activities using all their senses.

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Children's spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development is fostered

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000; and Section 122 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998

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OUTCOME OF THE INSPECTION

The provision is acceptable and is of high quality. Children are making very good progress towards the early learning goals. The next inspection will take place in three to four years time.

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WHAT THE SETTING NEEDS TO DO NEXT

There are no significant weaknesses to report, but considerations should be given to improving the following: • Plan regular opportunities for older children to solve simple problems through everyday activities • Ensure activities are made available to develop children's sense of place. The provider must draw up an action plan within 40 working days of receipt of this report showing how the key issues detailed above will be addressed. The action plan must be made available to all parents and to the Local Authority if required. An evaluation of the action taken will form part of the next inspection of funded nursery education.

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WHAT THE SETTING NEEDS TO DO NEXT

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000; and Section 122 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998

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STANDARD 1 - SUITABLE PERSON

Adults providing day care, looking after children or having unsupervised access to them are suitable to do so.

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STANDARD 2 - ORGANISATION

The registered person meets required adult: child ratios, ensures that training and qualifications requirements are met and organises space and resources to meet the children's needs effectively.

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STANDARD 3 - CARE, LEARNING AND PLAY

The registered person meets children's individual needs and promotes their welfare. They plan and provide activities and play opportunities to develop children's emotional, physical, social and intellectual capabilities.

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STANDARD 4 - PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

The premises are safe, secure and suitable for their purpose. They provide adequate space in an appropriate location, are welcoming to children and offer access to the necessary facilities for a range of activities which promote their development.

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STANDARD 5 - EQUIPMENT

Furniture, equipment and toys are provided which are appropriate for their purpose and help to create an accessible and stimulating environment. They are of suitable design and condition, well maintained and conform to safety standards.

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STANDARD 6 - SAFETY

The registered person takes positive steps to promote safety within the setting and on outings and ensures proper precautions are taken to prevent accidents.

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STANDARD 7 - HEALTH

The registered person promotes the good health of children and takes positive steps to prevent the spread of infection and appropriate measures when they are ill.

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STANDARD 8 - FOOD AND DRINK

Children are provided with regular drinks and food in adequate quantities for their needs. Food and drink is properly prepared, nutritious and complies with dietary and religious requirements.

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STANDARD 9 - EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

The registered person and staff actively promote equality of opportunity and anti-discriminatory practice for all children.

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NEEDS AND DISABILITIES)

The registered person is aware that some children may have special needs and is

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NEEDS AND DISABILITIES)

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000; and Section 122 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998 proactive in ensuring that appropriate action can be taken when such a child is identified or admitted to the provision. Steps are taken to promote the welfare and development of the child within the setting in partnership with the parents and other relevant parties.

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STANDARD 11 - BEHAVIOUR

Adults caring for children in the provision are able to manage a wide range of children's behaviour in a way which promotes their welfare and development.

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STANDARD 12 - WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PARENTS AND CARERS

The registered person and staff work in partnership with parents and to meet the needs of the children, both individually and as a group. Information is shared.

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STANDARD 13 - CHILD PROTECTION

The registered person complies with local child protection procedures approved by the Area Child Protection Committee and ensures that all adults working and looking after children in the provision are able to put the procedures into practice.

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STANDARD 14 - DOCUMENTATION

Records, policies and procedures which are required for the efficient and safe management of the provision, or to promote the welfare, care and learning of children are maintained. Records about individual children are shared with the child's parent.

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STANDARD 14 - DOCUMENTATION

This inspection was carried out under the provisions of Part XA of the Children Act 1989, as inserted by the Care Standards Act 2000; and Section 122 of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998

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