The Links Primary School

INSPECTION DETAILS

Inspection Date 27/01/2004 Inspector Name Sarah Warren

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SETTING DETAILS

Day Care Type Sessional Day Care Setting Name Holway Community Playgroup Setting Address Holway Primary School Shakespeare Avenue Taunton Somerset TA1 2JA

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REGISTERED PROVIDER DETAILS

Name The Committee of Holway Community Playgroup

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ORGANISATION DETAILS

Name Holway Community Playgroup Address Holway Primary School Shakespeare Avenue Taunton Somerset TA1 2JA

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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

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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. When making judgements, inspectors have regard to how well the provider meets the National Standards for under Eights Day Care and Childminding. A list of these is attached. The report identifies strengths and areas for improvement. This inspection report must be made available to all parents.

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Information about the setting

Holway Community Playgroup is situated within the grounds of Holway Park Primary School on the outskirts of Taunton. Children attend from the local residential areas, and most go on to attend the primary school, therefore, good links have been established between the school and playgroup. The group can accommodate up to 20 children aged between 2.5 and 5 years. Sessions run mornings and afternoons, the group is closed currently for one morning for a mother and toddler club. The group is managed by a newly elected committee of parents. A team of five dedicated staff are led by supervisor Sue Robertson. All staff are experienced in childcare and some have qualifications relating to their role, and continue to undertake further training. The group currently have 25 children on the register. The group have experience of supporting children with special needs.

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How good is the Day Care?

Holway Community Playgroup provide good care for children. The premises are safe, clean and cheerfully decorated. Most staff are qualified and all have good experience of working with children. The group have a good range of equipment that challenge children and encourage their all round development and learning. The group keep accurate and up to date records. The group carries out risk assessments every session and are safety conscious, although arrival times of children can be improved. Children behave well and respond well to staff's encouragement and praise. The group place great importance on snack time where children can learn and socialise, and develop their vocabulary and relationships. Children's dietary needs are carefully considered and taken into account. Children have easy access to a wide range of play resources. Activities are carefully planned and organised and help to stimulate children's learning and natural curiosity.

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How good is the Day Care?

Staff interact with warmth, enthusiasm and support children well, further enhancing their learning experience. Parents have access to a wide range of information about the group and their children's progress.They have excellent relationships with all the staff, who 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 friendly and approachable.

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What has improved since the last inspection?

At the last inspection the group was asked to ensure that they had written consent from parents to seek emergency medical advice or treatment. They have now put this in place and is sought from parents at pre-registration, along with all the other consents, agreements and contracts required.

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What is being done well?

• Staff interact with warmth and enthusiasm, asking questions that further the children's learning experience. • The group provide a warm, welcoming environment that is cheerful and relaxed. • Children have good access to a wide variety of challenging play resources, that help to encourage their all round development and learning. • Snack time is an enjoyable experience for children because of the choice, planning and the interaction of staff. • Children behave well and respond well to staff's support and encouragement. • Parents have strong partnerships and trusting relationships with all the staff, they are well informed and listened to.

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What needs to be improved?

• management of children's arrival time • the level of staff qualifications

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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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WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE 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

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by the time of the next inspection

Std Recommendation 1 Inform Ofsted of updated staff qualifications. 6 Manage children’s arrival to comply with the preschool’s written procedures.

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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

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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 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

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