The Oval School

INSPECTION DETAILS

Inspection Date 21/01/2004 Inspector Name Helen Hunt

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SETTING DETAILS

Day Care Type Sessional Day Care Setting Name Taunton Opportunity Group Setting Address Wooden Spoon House Crowcombe Road Taunton Somerset TA2 7NF

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REGISTERED PROVIDER DETAILS

Name The Committee of Taunton Opportunity Group

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ORGANISATION DETAILS

Name Taunton Opportunity Group Address Wooden spoon House Crowcombe Road Taunton Somerset TA2 7NF

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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 Taunton Opportunity Group is a preschool for children with special needs. The group is housed in its own purpose-built building situated on the site of Wellsprings Primary School Taunton. It is registered to care for up to 26 children aged from two years to five years of age per session. The catchment area covers Taunton, Wellington and the surrounding villages. The group provides transport and a staff member escort if parents wish. The Taunton Opportunity Group is open for six sessions a week during term time, on Mondays from 09.30 - 12:00 and from 13.00 - 15.00; on Tuesday to Friday 09.15 - 12:00. The Friday morning sessions are generally for children between eighteen months and three years and Monday afternoon sessions for under two year olds. Both of these sessions require a parent or carer to accompany the children under two years of age. The building is spacious offering good sized playrooms including a conservatory and

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Information about the setting

enclosed outside area. There is also a multi-sensory unit for children with sensory impairments, a physiotherapy area and two small rooms for visiting professionals such as speech therapist. The group have a large friendly staff team including experienced, qualified and visiting professional people. The group has a voluntary management committee and is partly funded by Education, Health and Social Services. The group is a registered provider of nursery education. All the children attending have special educational needs but none have English as an additional language.

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How good is the Day Care?

Taunton opportunity Group provide good quality care for children.

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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 The premises are purpose built and offer spacious well organised accommodation for parents and children. Children are provided with a broad range of activities to suit their individual needs and abilities. Specialist equipment is provided as needed to aid their progress. Resources are well managed and activities planned and set out prior to arrival of the children. Children are given choice and freedom to explore. Staff are well qualified and experienced and have extensive knowledge of each child and plan activities to develop their learning. New staff are inducted into the group and share good practice in staff meetings. They discuss behaviour management and work well as a team to gain consistency. Relationships with parents are very good. They are regularly consulted about the

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How good is the Day Care?

care of their children and have use of a family room. Staff assess the children and keep parents well informed of progress. Good attention is paid to safety. Regular risk assessments are made and actions taken if required. A good system is in place for monitoring fire safety and evaluating fire drills.

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What has improved since the last inspection?

At the last inspection the group was asked to improve the registration system. This has now been greatly improved and the office manager records children's names as they arrive and then this information is transferred to a formal register where staff's attendance is also recorded.

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What is being done well?

• Attention to individual children's needs are given great priority. • The accommodation is spacious, well organised and attractive. • Relationships with parents are very good and accommodation includes a family room for the use of parents. • Behaviour is well managed and staff work well as a team to gain consistency. • The range of activities offered is broad and provides the children with opportunities to explore.

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What needs to be improved?

• the complaints procedure, to include the name and address of Ofsted.

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Outcome of the 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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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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CONDITIONS OF REGISTRATION

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?

Taunton Opportunity Group offers high quality provision which helps children to make very good progress towards the Early Learning Goals. Teaching is very good. Staff have a very good understanding of the Foundation Stage and design topics and activities that can be tailored to children's individual needs. Planning is closely linked to the stepping stones in children's development. The implementation of the curriculum is specific to the group of children attending. Staff's interaction with children is excellent. All members of staff show high levels of care and patience plus enthusiasm for their work. They work closely with all relevant agencies, including education and health professionals who contribute to the children's individual learning programmes and assessments. Behaviour management is very good. Children are encouraged to take turns and to play co-operatively. Staff are sensitive to the age, stage and personal needs of each child

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How effective is the nursery education?

when implementing behaviour guidance. Excellent staff deployment during sessions ensures that children are assisted when necessary but also allowed to develop their own independence. Staff work very well as a team. Assessments for each child are detailed, up to date and useful. Leadership and management is very good. The group benefits from the support of a committee which includes parent representatives. The staff team, led by the teacher in charge, carry out self-assessments and monitor their provision by means of regular planning meetings and multi-disciplinary working. Current strategies in place to cope with the temporary loss of a deputy are effective. The partnership with parents and carers is very good. Staff provide an excellent information pack which is comprehensive and written in a friendly style. They are keen for parents to be involved with their child's learning. Parents are welcome to

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How effective is the nursery education?

stay during sessions and to use the family room. Home contact books maintain good links between staff and parents.

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What is being done well?

• Staff are keen to ensure that every family feels welcome and that children settle well at the group. An excellent range of information is provided for parents. Staff are available for daily feedback before, after and during sessions. The family room is well equipped. • Staff ensure that each child has access to all activities. These are tailored to the individual needs of each child. • Planning shows a very good balance across all areas of learning. The curriculum is comprehensive and supported by a good range of resources.

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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 • Staff put an emphasis on developing communication at the group. They are skilled in the use of sign language and demonstrate appropriate interaction with each child. They know the children well. • Staff make very good use of the building, the outside space, the range of small rooms and multi-sensory unit. They are able to give children group experiences and one to one attention as necessary. Staff have identified the potential benefits of inclusive play times with children from the nursery next door.

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What needs to be improved?

• opportunities for joint play with the adjoining Local Education Authority nursery.

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What has improved since the last inspection?

Taunton Opportunity Group has made very good progress since the last inspection. Parents are supplied with information regarding topic plans, starter words and songs regularly. Home contact books are provided. Staff hold parents evenings for those children who do not have a formal review. An audit of resources has been made and staff have identified areas for extending toys and equipment. Activities are planned to help children to learn about other cultures and these include major festivals in creative work and displays.

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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 Staff create a happy and relaxed atmosphere which is conducive to children learning through play. Staff ensure that each child receives individual care and attention. Children are encouraged to grow in independence and self esteem. Familiar routines, such as the welcome and goodbye songs, help children to settle and to feel a valued member of the group. Snack time and circle time give children good socialising experiences.

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COMMUNICATION, LANGUAGE AND LITERACY

Judgement: Very Good There is an emphasis on children being encouraged to communicate through signing and speech. Staff are sensitive to the body language and responses of those children with limited or no speech. Staff speak clearly, explain activities and ask questions to elicit a response from children. The book corner is inviting and stocked with a good range of fact and fiction books. Books are made at the nursery recording recent events and trips. Children have personalised books which include photographs.

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MATHEMATICAL DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Very Good The curriculum for mathematics demonstrates that staff are aware of the needs and stages of children in the group. Activities are planned to reinforce basic skills such as counting and recognising number. Mathematics is integrated throughout the Opportunity Group sessions. Staff encourage children to become familiar with using maths language when comparing number, size and position. Staff exploit opportunities at circle and story times to help children to develop maths skills.

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KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE WORLD

Judgement: Very Good Staff provide children with a wide range of activities which introduce them to the world about them. They are encouraged to take part in finding out and investigating activities, such as smelling and tasting sweet and sour foods. They are encouraged to express likes and dislikes. The curriculum is orientated towards sensory exploration as this is most relevant to the children attending. Topics are related to children's own experiences. Resources are good.

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PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT

Judgement: Very Good All physical activities are tailored to children's levels of skills and development. Staff provide suitable challenges to extend children's performance. All children are encouraged to join in. This area of learning is supported by a very good range of resources balanced across the use of fine motor-control skills and use of large muscle groups. Children have access to physiotherapy at the group.

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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 Children are encouraged to express their creativity through a large variety of means. An emphasis on sensory stimulation is beneficial to many of the children who attend. There is a good selection of dressing up clothes. Songs and music figure largely in the day to day routines of the group. Resources for art and craft are good. The multi-sensory rooms are used regularly.

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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: • explore opportunities to allow for children from the Taunton Opportunity Group to have joint play times with children from the adjoining Local Education Authority nursery.

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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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