Brentfield Primary School

INSPECTION DETAILS

Inspection Date 09/02/2004 Inspector Name Ruth Tharme

p.1

SETTING DETAILS

Day Care Type Sessional Day Care Setting Name Mary Godwin Under Fives Setting Address The Pavilion Wymans lane,Swindon Village, Cheltenham GL51 9QF

p.1

REGISTERED PROVIDER DETAILS

Name The Committee of Mary GodwinUnder Fives

p.1

ORGANISATION DETAILS

Name Mary GodwinUnder Fives Address Mary Godwin Under Fives, The Pavilion Wymans Lane, Swindon Village Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL51 9QF

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

The Mary Godwin Under Fives operates from The Pavilion which is situated at the edge of the playing fields, in the Wymans Brook area of Cheltenham. The building comprises of a main room that is used as a play room, a hall and toilets. Outside the children have the use of a fenced, paved area and have access to the field. The group serves the local residential community and is open during term time. On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday they are open from 09.15 to 11.45 and on Friday from 10.00 to 12.30. There are currently 20 children on the roll. This includes 14 funded 3-year-olds and 3 funded 4-year-olds. The group supports children with special needs. There are currently no children who have English as an additional language. Three members of staff are employed to look after the children. The playleader is working towards a foundation degree in Early Years and the deputy holds a level 3 qualification in childcare. Rota parents provide extra support. The group receives

p.2

Information about the setting

support from a foundation stage consultant through the Early Years Chilcare Services.

p.2

How good is the Day Care?

Mary Godwin Under Fives Play Group provides good quality care for children. The well-presented playroom provides a stimulating and inviting environment where children feel happy and contented. There is a high level of risk awareness as staff are well informed about health and safety procedures. Fire procedures are practised regularly and an effective programme of risk assessment is in place to ensure the children's safety. There are considerate procedures for dealing with children when they are ill and an effective exclusion policy for infectious diseases. The staff use their observation and assessments of children's progress to plan a

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 range of stimulating activities which help children to learn. Activities are generally well resourced and staff present equipment attractively to appeal to children. Staff work closely with parents and other professionals to ensure that individual needs are fully met. Children with special needs are particularly well supported. Staff model good behaviour and treat children with respect. The children are polite and behave extremely well. There is a good relationship with parents. Staff ensure that parents are well informed by providing high quality information. They make themselves available before and after each session to discuss any aspect of children's care. Parents are encouraged to play an active role in the running of the group by joining the committee, taking part

p.2

How good is the Day Care?

in social events or helping at the sessions. Documentation is generally shared with parents, although they have not been asked to acknowledge all entries in medication records.

p.3

What has improved since the last inspection?

At the last inspection three actions were set. The group has made good progress and has addressed each of them appropriately. They were required to write an action plan to show how the person in charge would attain a level 3 qualification. The action plan has been fully implemented and the play leader is expected to be appropriately qualified by summer 2005. Children are cared for by staff with appropriate levels of skill and experience. The second action required them to record the times of arrival and departure for staff and children. This has been effectively put into practice so it is clear which children are present at any one time. Finally, they were required to record all incidents and inform parents on the same day. An appropriate system has been put in place so all incidents are clearly recorded and parents are asked to acknowledge all entries.

p.3

What is being done well?

• There is a high level of risk awareness. Staff are well informed about safety procedures and implement a regularly reviewed risk assessment programme. • Staff use their observation of children's progress to help plan a broad range of stimulating activities and the next steps for the children's play. • Staff have a clear understanding of equal opportunities issues. They work closely with parents and other professionals to ensure that individual needs are met appropriately. • There is a well-implemented behaviour management policy and children behave extremely well. • There is a good relationship with parents. They are well informed about their children's progress and play a key role in the running of the group.

p.3

What needs to be improved?

• Documentation to provide evidence that parents have been informed when

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 medication has been administered.

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 7 Ensure that parents acknowledge all entries in the medication records.

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?

The provision for nursery education at Mary Godwin Under Fives is of high quality. Children making very good progress towards the early learning goals in all areas of learning. Particularly good use is made of the outdoor area to support children's physical development and their knowledge and understanding of the world. The quality of teaching is very good. Staff plan a variety of activities both indoors and outdoors and clearly understand what children learn from them. Resources are well presented and organised to encourage children's learning. Staff are skilled at providing opportunities for children to develop their independence. They encourage them to pour their own drinks and teach them simple methods for putting on their own coats. They set good examples, model good behaviour and treat children with respect and affection. This is reflected in children's own good behaviour. Staff regularly observe and assess children's progress. They maintain detailed records

p.5

How effective is the nursery education?

which are effectively used to inform future plans. The leadership and management of the setting is very good. Committee and staff members have clearly defined roles which complement each other well. There is an effective system for evaluating the quality of teaching. Staff evaluate their work at regular meetings. There is a clear commitment to ongoing improvement. The group is about to submit the Gloucestershire Quality Award scheme and works closely with outside agencies. The partnership with parents is very good. Parents and grandparents spend time in the setting as volunteer helpers or to present specific activities such as cooking. They are well informed about the curriculum and their children's progress. Parents complete 'All About Me' records before their child starts at the setting. They also contribute to the assessment of their child's progress on a regular basis. Parents evenings, social events and newsletters are used to help parents support their

p.5

What is being done well?

• Children's physical development and knowledge and understanding of the world are promoted effectively through the excellent use of outdoor areas. • Staff and parents work together to assess children's progress. This enables staff to plan effectively for the next stages of learning. • Staff have a clear understanding of the Foundation Stage and ensure that all adults involved in the session are clear about the aims and objectives of activities. A clear and effective planning cycle ensures that all areas of children's learning are promoted. • Resources and activities are well presented so that children are keen to take part.

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

p.5

What needs to be improved?

• extend resources so that children have more opportunities to join and build; • extend the use of information and communication technology to support children's learning.

p.6

What has improved since the last inspection?

The group has made very good progress since the last inspection. Key issues required them to strengthen the planned programme with regard to mathematics, particularly addition, and to brief parents about learning intentions. Parents are now well informed about learning intentions. They receive written information and rota parents are briefed at the start of each session. A well-planned programme for mathematical development has been implemented. The second key issue required them to improve children's records of achievements by dating entries and to promote parents' right of access. All record entries are now dated and parents are able to access their child's record at any time. The final key issue was to review resources with regard to positive images, particularly those of disability. Resources have been supplemented to include a good range of books, toys and posters which reflect positive images.

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 A well-considered room lay out and well-presented resources enable children to leave their parents with confidence and quickly join in with play. They demonstrate a good level of independence and select activities for themselves. Close friendships are formed and children treat each other with care and respect. They are aware of, and value, each others differences. Polite and confident children behave extremely well.

p.7

COMMUNICATION, LANGUAGE AND LITERACY

Judgement: Very Good Staff provide positive opportunities for children to express their ideas and feeling. Children communicate well with adults and each other, they talk freely about their experiences. Staff present stories in an interesting way to encourage children's enthusiasm for books. The well-presented book corner is appealing and well used. The children are confident mark makers.

p.7

MATHEMATICAL DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Very Good Children count confidently and are encouraged by staff who provide frequent opportunities for them to practise their skills. They make simple calculations and subtract confidently during a rendition of 'Ten Fat Sausages'. Mathematical language such as 'big', 'small' and 'middle-sized' is used frequently as children play. They successfully recreate patterns following simple plans.

p.7

KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE WORLD

Judgement: Very Good Children enjoy frequent opportunities to explore the natural world and discover how things grow. Children learn about the local environment and celebrate a variety of festivals to develop their knowledge and understanding of the world. Children confidently use craft resources for designing and making and they enjoy using technology, such as the tape recorder, to record their own voices.

p.7

PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Very Good Excellent use is made of outdoor areas to provide opportunities for physical play. Children demonstrate a good level of spatial awareness and confidently use a range of large and small equipment. They respect each others space and are able to run, jump, balance and climb with confidence. Children use tools competently and cut accurately with scissors and dough moulds. The recent 'All about Me' project has developed children's understanding of their own bodies.

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 selection of pre-planned and free-choice activities provide ample opportunities for children to explore media and materials. Children have access to a range of natural and made resources. Imaginary play is well supported by attractively presented role play and small-world equipment. Children sing enthusiastically in group situations and 'hum' contentedly as they play.

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 the following: • extend resources so that children are able to experiment with a wider range of materials as they join and build • extend the opportunities to use information and communication technology to support children's learning.

p.9

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.

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