Croft Pre School

INSPECTION DETAILS

Inspection Date 21/10/2004 Inspector Name Rosemary Beyer

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SETTING DETAILS

Day Care Type Sessional Day Care Setting Name The Croft Pre-School Setting Address The Scout Hut High Street Market Weighton East Riding of Yorkshire YO43 3AA

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REGISTERED PROVIDER DETAILS

Name The Committee of The Croft Pre-School 1020205

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ORGANISATION DETAILS

Name The Croft Pre-School Address The Scout Hut High Street Market Weighton East Riding of Yorkshire YO43 3AA

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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

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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

The Croft Preschool was registered thirty years ago to provide sessional care, and meets in the Scout Hall in the centre of the town of Market Weighton, behind the shops. It is a committee run group, comprised of parents and carers, which serves the town and the surrounding rural area. The group meets every morning, Monday to Friday 09:15 - 11:45; and afternoons Monday, Tuesday and Thursday form 12:45 - 15:15 and Wednesday 13:30 -16:00 term time only. Children attend from the town of Market Weighton and the surrounding rural area. Eight members of staff are employed, with at least three present during each session. Six staff are qualified to Level 3 in Care and Education, and one has the Diploma in Pre-School Practice. The staff group is established, experienced and committed to training to further improve their practice. Parents are invited to assist during sessions. The premises comprise of the main hall, a small room, kitchen and toilets. There is

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Information about the setting

also a secure outside area at the rear. The neighbouring play area is secure and also used. Currently 56 children attend, of whom 36 are funded, all 3 years old. No children with special needs or with English as an additional language attend, although arrangements are in place for their attendance.

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How good is the Day Care?

The Croft Pre-School provides good quality care for all the children who attend. The children are secure and settled, in a warm and welcoming provision, where they have good relationships with the staff. The staff ensure the premises are safe, and provide the children with opportunities to learn about health, hygiene and looking after their personal care. There are

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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 policies in place to ensure the children are protected and those with different needs included. Staff provide a wide range of toys, equipment and activities to meet the learning needs of the children both inside and in the secure outside area, although children do not have sufficient opportunities to select resources independently. Activities are adapted to provide sufficient challenge to help funded children progress through the Foundation Stage in all the areas of learning and the two year olds to learn at their appropriate level. Staff have experience of caring for children with special needs and systems are in place to support them. Children with English as an additional language are welcome to attend.

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How good is the Day Care?

Partnership with parents is good. Parents are very satisfied with the care their children receive. They are included in the education of their children through the contact with key workers, information they receive and opportunities to help at the sessions. All the necessary paperwork is in place to ensure the safe and efficient management of the setting.

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What is being done well?

• The group provides a wide range of stimulating activities for all the children, whatever their stage of development and interests. There is a good range of toys and equipment for play both inside and out. • The staff have good relationships with the children and know them well. They help new children to settle through patient support. They enjoy children's company and spend the time talking, reading and supporting their play to help them learn and have fun. Staff are very conscious of the different stages of development of the children and ensure they all have opportunities to meet their needs. Children are able to withdraw from activities if they are uncomfortable taking part, such as the bubbles outside. • The group supports each child to help social and emotional development, and by planning and recording ensures educational needs are met. Individual plans are developed if children have different needs from their peers.

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What is being done well?

• Support is available for children with special needs and advice sought from outside agencies if necessary. Children with English as an additional language are welcome in the group. • Staff have high expectations and the children behave well. They respond well to guidance and praise, taking part in activities and clearing up afterwards. • Relationships with parents are good, staff and parents work together to ensure the children's needs are met and information exchanged. Parents appreciate the work staff do to support their children while in the group.

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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

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What needs to be improved?

• the opportunities for children to select resources independently.

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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 5 Give children more opportunities to select activities and resources independently

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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?

The Croft Preschool provides very good quality education where the children are making very good progress towards the early learning goals in all areas. The planning and recording of the educational programme is detailed and effectively promotes and supports their development. Teaching is very good and staff encourage the children to develop personal independence, concentration and confidence. They have high expectations of the children who behave well. A good and varied selection of toys and equipment is available to support the children's learning in all areas, however children do not have enough opportunities to select resources independently. Systems are in place for children with special needs which reflect the Code of Practice, and staff have had experience supporting children and their families to enable them to develop and learn. Leadership and management of the setting are very good, with the staff working

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How effective is the nursery education?

effectively as a team, all being aware of their roles and responsibilities. Through appraisal and training, staff are encouraged to develop their knowledge and practice. Partnerships with parents are very good and help the children to progress. Information for parents is clear and informative, both in the initial brochure and subsequent newsletters and notices. Parents are valued by staff, who ensure they are in regular contact to discuss any concerns or progress. The key worker system and the information on recording sheets help parents feel more involved.

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What is being done well?

• Staff have a very good understanding of the early learning goals and provide opportunities for the children to develop in all the areas of learning through careful planning. • Children's behaviour is very good. Staff have high expectations and encourage children's personal independence, confidence and concentration. • Staff work together well, providing a positive environment in which the children feel valued and settled. They use the premises and outside area to provide different learning opportunities through a range of different activities. • Relationships with parents and carers are very good. Information about the setting and activities is available and parents feel involved in their child's learning.

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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

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What needs to be improved?

• opportunities for the children to select resources independently • opportunities for the children to widen their knowledge of the musical instruments used to create the music they listen to on tape

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What has improved since the last inspection?

Very good progress hs been made since the last inspection. Recording has been developed by key workers to ensure parents are aware of progress, and any concerns, but as far as possible, in a positive way. Plans are produced to provide appropriate support and encouragement. Increased opportunities are provided for children to experience music through the use of instruments and the tape recorder. IT is supported by the use of the computer, Pixie and the listening centre. More opportunities are provided for children to learn their names, and simple words, through the use of name labels and increased labelling in the setting.

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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 are confident and are encouraged to take responsibility for their own personal care. They are developing independence, choose activities, concentrate well and they are curious and keen to learn. Staff have high expectations and the children behave very well. They relate positively to each other and the adults, and are interested in the activities provided. They are considerate of each other, negotiate and take turns, and co operate well to complete tasks they could not do alone.

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COMMUNICATION, LANGUAGE AND LITERACY

Judgement: Very Good The children are keen to engage in conversation with each other, members of staff and visitors. They listen attentively and respond well to guidance and instructions. They are confident to express themselves and their feelings in both discussion and role play. Children have access to books and through stories, labelling and displays understand that printed words have meaning. They are able to recognise their names and are starting to learn simple words.

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MATHEMATICAL DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Very Good Children use counting during singing and rhymes which helps to support their understanding of number. They are developing an understanding of mathematical language and number recognition, which they use during independent play with their friends. The computer, Pixie and table top games, some with adult support, provide opportunities to consolidate their learning.

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KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE WORLD

Judgement: Very Good The children have opportunities to learn about the natural world and their local community. They are specially interested in insects and the plants they have grown in their garden. They are given natural resources such as leaves and fruits to investigate, and enjoy using the magnifying glasses and telescope. They enjoy talking about themselves, events in their lives, and activities they have undertaken in the past, also about the local community

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PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Very Good They move confidently around the provision, both indoors and outdoors. They demonstrate good body control, balance and an awareness of space. They use a wide range of both large and small equipment, tools and resources. Children are encouraged to stay healthy by good personal hygiene, safety and healthy eating. They are aware of changes to their bodies due to exercise and are able to access drinks independently.

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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 A wide range of materials and equipment is available to create pictures, models and collages. They explore colour, shape and texture through a range of activities and enjoy baking. They sing simple songs from memory and enjoy listening to classical music, which could be further explored by showing examples and providing information about the instruments used. Children use their imaginations and communicate their feelings through role play, stories and discussion of photos of their activities.

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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: • provide more opportunities for the children to select resources independently • provide opportunities for the children to learn about the instruments used to create the music they hear

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WHAT THE SETTING NEEDS TO DO NEXT

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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