Hartlepool Sixth Form College

INSPECTION DETAILS

Inspection Date 21/09/2004 Inspector Name Theresa May

p.1

SETTING DETAILS

Day Care Type Full Day Care Setting Name Maytime Montessori Nursery Setting Address 341 Cranbrook Road Ilford Essex IG1 4UF

p.1

ORGANISATION DETAILS

Name The Partnership of Mr John and Mrs Mary O'Mahoney Address Maytime Montessori Nursery 341 Cranbrook Road Ilford Essex IG1 4UF

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

Maytime Montessori Nursery has been registered since 1992. It is a privately owner nursery. It is situated in a residential area within the Ilford area and serves the local community. It is close to Ilford shopping centre and the Northern line tube station. It uses the Montessori method of teaching and the Early Years Curriculum. Operational hours are from Mondays to Friday, 8.00 a.m. to 18:00 p.m. It operates from a converted house. The pre-school children are based in the downstairs rooms and the young babies and toddlers are based upstairs. There is a fully enclosed garden for outside play. There are currently 35 children on roll. There are 16 funded three and 5 funded four year olds. There are currently no attending with special needs, and none where English is supported. There are 9 members of staff on duty at each session, including the person in charge. All the staff hold Early Years qualifications or are attaining them.

p.2

How good is the Day Care?

The quality and organisation of the day care is good. All the staff have an early years qualification or attaining them. There is a commitment to training through the Early Years Partnership. They organise the space and materials effectively for the children allowing them to make choices. There are a wide range of toys and equipment which meet the children's individual needs and help to create a stimulating environment for the children. All the required documentation is available. However, some of the policies and procedures, operation plan lack detail. The premises are light bright, clean and well maintained. They appear safe and secure with effective systems for the arrival and collection of the children. Staff have good hygiene routines with the children. All children are treated with equal regard and there are systems in place to support and include children with special needs. The staff are aware of child protection issues and understand how to progress

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 concerns. The staff plan a range of activities for the children which promote their learning and development. However, this includes planning for the under three's using the Early Learning Goals. There is a key worker system in place and the staff know the children well. The staff listen and value what children say. The children appear happy and settled. The children behave well and are happy to share and co-operate with each other. The nursery work in partnership with the parents. They are welcomed in to the nursery, offered a settling in period and information is obtained from the parents regarding the care of their children. This is recorded and parents wishes are respected. Parents are informed about their children verbally on a daily basis. They

p.2

How good is the Day Care?

receive a final report of achievement when they leave. There is a parents handbook for them to refer too.

p.3

What has improved since the last inspection?

Since the last inspection the nursery have added to there complaints procedure that the name and address of Ofsted can be obtained from the office. Ofsteds name and address has been displayed on the notice board in the front hall for parents to view. The deputy and supervisor of the baby room have now attained the NVQ 3 to ensure they have suitable training for their areas of work. The nursery have devised a system to record any significant incidents to be able to share with parents and Ofsted. They have also devised a form which is filled out by the babies key worker which informs parents on a daily basis about what the baby has eaten, how long they have slept and their general welfare. They have also addressed their nappy changing routine to ensure good hygiene practises by using disposable gloves and aprons. Their operational plan has been updated, but lacks detail. It includes the electrical testing certificate.

p.3

What is being done well?

• The staff know the children well; they listen and value what children say, they talk with them about what they are doing and give praise and encouragement to the children. The children appear happy, settled and well behaved. They listen and co-operate with each other and adults. • There are a wide range of toys and equipment which meets the children's needs. It is accessible for the children so they are able to make choices and decisions in their play. • The environment is light, bright clean and well maintained. The space is organised effectively for children to be able access the equipment.

p.3

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

p.3

What needs to be improved?

• the planning for the under three's • the detail of some of the operational policies and procedures.

p.4

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 3 Have regard to for the Birth to Three strategy when planning for this age group. 14 Review and develop the written documentation to include all necessary detail in the complaints procedure, special needs statement and child protection statement.

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?

Maytime Montessori nursery provides a friendly, welcoming, environment where children learn through a range of well planned and stimulating activities. Children are making very good progress in all areas of learning. They are happy and motivated to learn. Teaching is very good. Staff have a good understanding of the foundation stage. They use a variety of teaching methods to promote children's learning. Resources and equipment are readily available, they are of good quality and are used creatively by staff to promote learning in all areas. Staff plan interesting activities that offer challenge and encourage children to concentrate. There are good opportunities for children to initiate their own learning by choosing activities that interest them. Staff work with children individually through out the day. They make good use of everyday routines to consolidate children's learning particularly their language development

p.5

How effective is the nursery education?

and mathematical understanding. Planning is detailed and effective a good balance is achieved across all areas of learning. Staff use their knowledge of the stepping stones and early learning goals to inform their assessment records. Records are regularly completed and they are used well to progress children's learning . The leadership and management is very good. The manager works closely with her staff, she uses her time to support staff and evaluate working practices. The well established staff team work well together, they have specific roles and responsibilities throughout the nursery. There are good opportunities for in service training. Partnership with parents is good. They are encouraged to become involved in their children's learning by sharing their observations of children's learning from home. They are kept informed of themes and topics. They are very happy with the care and education provided. They attend open evenings to discuss their child's progress.

p.5

What is being done well?

• Staff have a clear understanding of the foundation stage. They use this knowledge to plan stimulating, interesting activities that encourage children to concentrate. • Children are well behaved and confident they show independence when choosing activities that interest them and are motivated to learn. • Staff use of every day routines well to develop children's understanding of simple number operations and to progress children's language skills. • Staff are skilled at supporting children's language development they use effective teaching methods and open ended guest ions to encourage children to think..

p.5

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 listen to stories with interest and enjoy using the story props. They respond with enthusiasm when joining in the repeated lines of the story..

p.5

What needs to be improved?

• observing and record keeping • written information for parents.

p.6

What has improved since the last inspection?

Very good progress has been made on the issues identified at the last inspection. children's independence is promoted through regular free choice times each day. Resources and materials are easily access able and attractively displayed. Children have good opportunities to use creative resources and materials the well resourced craft area is used regularly by children to express their own ideas and respond creatively using their senses.

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 happy and motivated to learn. They share and co-operate everyday routines are used well to encourage children's independence and to help them build relationships. Children are confident and concentrate for a long time at activities they have selected for themselves. Their behaviour is very good they are taught to share and take turns, Children are caring and supportive to each other. They show personal independence.

p.7

COMMUNICATION, LANGUAGE AND LITERACY

Judgement: Very Good Children know how to form letters accurately, they write lists and copy their names on their paintings. Story props are used effectively to encourage children to listen to stories. Children are confident speakers, expressing their ideas freely. Staff help children recognise letters in their names and to identify the sounds the letters make. Staff make good use of questioning to introduce new words and build children's language skills. Children use books independently.

p.7

MATHEMATICAL DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Very Good Children are starting to do simple calculations when predicating in number rhythms and songs. They practice simple addition in everyday routines. There are many opportunities for children to sort, match and order using practical equipment. Children read numbers using the number line and use mathematical language when filling containers and when playing at the water tray. Children count to 10 and above. They compare and predict when producing graphs and Montessori equipment.

p.7

KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE WORLD

Judgement: Very Good Themes such as the seasons and people that help us are used well to develop children's understanding of the local community. Children make predictions when talking about electricity circuits and using the water tray. Children have good opportunities to learn about different cultures and beliefs when celebrating festivals and events. They find out about caring for living things when caring for the nursery pets. They are confident users of technology and programmable toy's.

p.7

PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Very Good Children have many good opportunities to use tools and small equipment, cutters puzzles and scissors which they use confidently and safely. Children use the outdoor space well manovering around objects while pedalling their bikes or pushing pushchairs. Every day routines are used well to develop children's understanding of keeping healthy and healthy eating. Outdoor activities are planed for and encourage children to practice their skills at throwing catching and balance.

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 A good range of activities and resources are available each day to help children express their ideas and feelings freely. They explore texture, colour and shape using paint clay and paper mache. They enjoy using musical instruments and singing and dancing to taped music. Children use their imagination confidently in the well resourced role play area they enthusiastically act out stories..

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 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.

p.9

WHAT THE SETTING NEEDS TO DO NEXT

There are no significant weaknesses to report, but considerations should be given to improving the following: • There are no significant weaknesses to report but consideration should be given to further improving the following. • continue to develop the systems for observing and recording children's progress. • providing regular written report on children's progress. 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

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