Ad Astra Infant School

INSPECTION DETAILS

Inspection Date 11/11/2003 Inspector Name Christine Clint

p.1

SETTING DETAILS

Day Care Type Sessional Day Care Setting Name Sunbeams Pre-School Setting Address The Pavillion School Lane, North Mundham Chichester West Sussex PO20 1LA

p.1

REGISTERED PROVIDER DETAILS

Name The Committee of Sunbeams Pre-School

p.1

ORGANISATION DETAILS

Name Sunbeams Pre-School Address The Pavillion School Lane, North Mundham Chichester West Sussex PO20 1LA

p.1

ORGANISATION 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

p.1

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.

p.2

Information about the setting

Sunbeams Pre-school has been registered since the year 2000 and is situated in the village hall in North Mundham, children from the local rural community attend and those wishing to enrol in North Mundham Primary School. The pre-school uses two areas within the hall on a daily basis and offers regular outside play. The registration is for 29 children aged 2 - 5 years, of whom only four may be aged 2 - 3 years. The sessions operate on weekday mornings during term time and there are five members of staff on duty daily. At the time of the inspection there were 19 funded children attending, 2 aged 4 years and 17 aged 3 years. Children with special educational needs also attend and close links are maintained with the nearby primary school. There are currently no children attending for whom English is an additional language.

p.2

How good is the Day Care?

Sunbeams Preschool provides good quality care for children. There are organised procedures for appointing and vetting staff and positive encouragement for staff to become qualified. The premises offer ample indoor and outside play space in a safe, secure environment. Appropriate play equipment is organised daily and includes regular topics. Most documentation is completed in appropriate detail. There is a strong commitment to maintaining consistent levels of safety and supportive documentation is in place. Comprehensive policies and procedures are in place for health, most contain appropriate detail. Staff have a high level of awareness regarding healthy snacks for children and there are clear systems in place to recognise children's individual needs or allergies. The equal opportunities policy is broad, with relevant links to other policies and procedures. Staff have a proactive attitude towards children's special needs, they

p.2

How good is the Day Care?

are dedicated and committed to improving facilities and include regular liaison with other agencies. There is limited understanding of the Area Child Protection Procedures.

p.2

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 Staff provide a good variety of activities and children have freedom of choice for the majority of the session; staff understand how to manage behaviour according to the understanding of the child. Balanced information is available for parents and constructive ideas are included for involving parents in children's formal learning, and for maintaining confidentiality.

p.2

What has improved since the last inspection?

At the last inspection the registered provider agreed to ensure that minimum staffing ratios were maintained; an action plan was implemented on 26/09/2002. An action was also agreed to provide information for parents about the exclusion of children who are ill or infectious; this was included on 26/09/2002. The implementation of a plan for all staff to receive induction training, including health and safety and child protection was in place by 01/12/2002. The registered provider also agreed to ensure that written parental permission was obtained for seeking emergency medical advice or treatment, this has been obtained, however amendments are required. An informal risk assessment has taken place.

p.3

What is being done well?

• Safety has a high priority; staff are aware of policies and procedures and regular routines are established to supervise children at all times, especially when using the dedicated outside area. • The use of indoor space is well organised; children gain in confidence from the freedom to move between areas. • Staff have a good awareness and understanding of children's special needs and individual needs; there is strong support and regular linking with specialists.

p.3

What needs to be improved?

• the level of qualified staff to meet the minimum requirements; • the qualification of the named deputy; • the procedure for signing records of medication administered; • the permission for emergency treatment forms; • the understanding of responding to the Area Child Protection Committee Procedures;

p.3

What needs to be improved?

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

p.3

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.

p.4

by the time of the next inspection

Std Recommendation 2 Continue to work to the action plan to ensure that staff who deputise have completed a relevant qualification and at least half of all staff hold a level 2 qualification. 7 Keep a written record, signed by parents, of medicines given to children and ensure that parents understand the permission for emergency treatment form 13 Ensure that the child protection procedure complies with the local Area Child Protection Committee, (ACPC) procedures and that this includes a procedure to be followed in the event of allegations of abuse or neglect by staff.

p.4

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

p.4

How effective is the nursery education?

Sunbeams Pre- school offers good quality nursery education. Children are making generally good progress in their mathematical development and communication language and literacy , and very good progress in all other areas of learning. The quality of teaching is generally good. Staff plan a range of exciting activities which promote children's learning experiences across all areas of the curriculum. However there are some missed opportunities to further develop children's problem solving abilities and practice their writing skills. An effective system of recording children's progress and achievements is in place and used to inform future planning. Staff work well together as a team, they know the children well and are interested in what they have to say. They encourage and promote positive behaviour, setting consistent boundaries which the children achieve. The quality of leadership and management is very good. The committee provide a

p.5

How effective is the nursery education?

strong and committed leadership who are very aware of their roles and responsibilities. They are supportive staff through training and appraisals. The day to day running of the group is organised effectively by the supervisor, systems are in place for the assessment and continual improvement of facilities. There are strong links fostered with the local Primary school. The partnership with parents is generally good. They have access to clear information via the parent pack, notice board and regular newsletters. Parents are supportive of the group through fundraising, standing as committee members, and sharing their skills with the children. However there is little opportunity for parents to share information regarding their child's progress and achievements in a regular structured way.

p.5

What is being done well?

• The staff provide a well planned stimulating environment where children learn through a wide range of practical experiences. The organisation and lay out of the setting allows children to make independent choices and move freely between activities. • A dynamic and enthusiastic partnership between leadership and management ensure the continued improvement of facilities for the benefit of children. • Staff have high expectations for the children encouraging their self confidence and self esteem. The children respond positively by showing respect and consideration for each other, and developing their independence.

p.5

What needs to be improved?

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 • systems for sharing children's progress with parents • opportunities for children to develop their mathematical problem solving skills • opportunities for children to practice writing skills.

p.5

What has improved since the last inspection?

The setting has made generally good progress since the last inspection. Staff have attended Foundation Stage training and are planning an exciting range of activities to cover all areas of learning, however some areas of the children's mathematical understanding still need to be developed. An effective assessment system is in place to record children's progress and achievements and to inform future planning.

p.6

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

p.6

PERSONAL, SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Very Good Children are encouraged to be independent, they are able to dress and undress themselves select resources and choose activities. Children understand the agreed protocols for working together, they share and take turns and want to see 'rules' upheld consistently. Children have established friendships they are supportive of one another and recognise the differing needs and abilities of the group. They enjoy the responsibilities they are given - tidying up and serving their friends at snack time.

p.7

COMMUNICATION, LANGUAGE AND LITERACY

Judgement: Generally Good Children are confident to express their opinions in small and large groups. They listen intently to stories being read aloud, often predicting the ending and joining in with familiar refrains. They know how to handle books appropriately and enjoying 'reading' stories to their friends. Children are encouraged to recognise their names However they have few opportunities to practice writing their own names or developing phonic recognition.

p.7

MATHEMATICAL DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Generally Good Children enjoy singing number rhymes to re enforce their understanding of the value of numbers. They recognise numbers and count confidently from 1-10. Children are familiar with shapes and use them to create pictures. Children are beginning to use some positional and mathematical language, however they have limited opportunities to develop their problem solving skills through everyday activities.

p.7

KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE WORLD

Judgement: Very Good Children are given opportunities to make predictions, they are curious and interested in observing the changes which happen to living creatures - tadpoles. Children explore the features of their local environment through well planned topics. They have a good understanding of the passage of time,are able to talk about past and present events that are important to them. Children are provided with opportunities to understand how other people live through talks from invited guests.

p.7

PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Very Good Children move confidently throughout the setting, They have regard for the safety of others and negotiate space effectively. Children are encouraged to be responsible for their own personal hygiene, and are aware of the importance of healthy eating. Children move with control and coordination using a variety of outdoor equipment. They handle a range of small tools and equipment appropriately and with increasing control.

p.7

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

p.7

CREATIVE DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Very Good Children are provided with opportunities to explore colour and texture in two and three dimensions. Their artwork is displayed attractively and valued. Through self initiated role play activities children use their imaginations to act out real and imagined experiences. Children enjoy singing and joining in with favourite songs exploring rhythm and rhymes, some are confident to sing alone. Children have the opportunity to take part in weekly cooking activities.

p.8

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

p.8

OUTCOME OF THE INSPECTION

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

p.9

WHAT THE SETTING NEEDS TO DO NEXT: THE KEY ISSUES

• share children's progress and achievements with parents on a regular basis; • provide opportunities for children to develop their mathematical problem solving skills in a practical way; • provide more opportunities for children to practice their writing skills. 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.

p.9

WHAT THE SETTING NEEDS TO DO NEXT: THE KEY ISSUES

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

p.9

STANDARD 1 - SUITABLE PERSON

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

p.10

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.

p.10

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.

p.10

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.

p.10

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.

p.10

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.

p.10

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.

p.10

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.

p.10

STANDARD 9 - EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

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

p.10

NEEDS AND DISABILITIES)

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

p.10

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.

p.10

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.

p.11

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.

p.11

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.

p.11

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.

p.11

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

p.11