Childminder, Out-of school day care in Hertfordshire

Inspection date 1 March 2019 Previous inspection date 21 April 2016

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This inspection: Good 2

Previous inspection: Good 2 Effectiveness of leadership and management Good 2 Quality of teaching, learning and assessment Good 2 Personal development, behaviour and welfare Good 2 Outcomes for children Not Applicable

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This provision is good

n The childminder provides a welcoming and homely environment where children can play safely. She has a good understanding of the needs of children after a full day in school. Children demonstrate that they are happy and settled and clearly enjoy spending time with the childminder. n The childminder has formed good relationships with the teachers in the schools that children attend. This helps to ensure continuity in their care and learning and support children's individual needs. n Children develop strong bonds with the childminder, her family and each other. This promotes their self-esteem and supports their sense of belonging. The childminder ensures that children's views and contributions are valued. n Children's communication and language are supported well. The childminder continually talks to children and asks them questions, such as what they enjoy doing at school. Children talk confidently with each other, the childminder and visitors.

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This provision is good

n Children develop a good understanding of the importance of a healthy lifestyle. The childminder provides healthy snacks for children to enjoy. Children play outside every day and benefit from the fresh air and exercise. They practise their physical skills as they play in the garden and go on visits to parks and soft-play areas. n The childminder has established very good relationships with parents. They regularly exchange information about children's learning and achievements. Parents say their children have fun, are very happy and enjoy being with the childminder. n The childminder does not always make the most of ongoing training opportunities to help strengthen her existing knowledge and skills. n At times, the childminder does not make the best use of opportunities to encourage children to do more for themselves and extend their independence even further.

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What the setting needs to do to improve further

To further improve the quality of the early years provision the provider should:

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What the setting needs to do to improve further

n engage with further professional development opportunities, to help strengthen existing knowledge and skills to the highest level n make best use of opportunities for children to develop and use their independence further.

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What the setting needs to do to improve further

Inspection activities n The inspector observed the activities indoors and outdoors and the interactions between the childminder and children. n The inspector held discussions with the childminder and spoke to children. n The inspector looked at relevant documentation, such as suitability and qualifications and policies and procedures. n The inspector took account of the views of parents by reading written comments and feedback.

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Effectiveness of leadership and management is good

The childminder is well qualified and experienced in looking after children. She regularly reflects on her practice and the service she provides. She uses feedback from parents and children, to identify her strengths and areas for improvement. Safeguarding is effective. The childminder has a secure understanding of possible signs that could indicate that children are at risk of harm. She is aware of the procedure to follow should she need to report any concerns about children's welfare. Clear policies and procedures are in place to underpin all aspects of her practice. She checks the premises each day to help to make sure children play in a safe environment. The childminder supports children to learn about risks and staying safe. For example, she teaches them to be vigilant and look out for traffic when they are out with her. Children also learn how to safely negotiate the steps down to her garden.

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Quality of teaching, learning and assessment is good

The childminder knows the children well. She provides a good range of toys and resources that are appropriate for their ages. Children develop confidence as they explore and make choices for themselves. They share ideas with each other and develop problem-solving skills as they work together to create a 'mansion' with building blocks. The childminder supports them with topics that children are learning about at school. Children enjoy reading to each other. The childminder continually reinforces their knowledge of letters and sounds. She often incudes mathematical language, such as counting, shapes and colour recognition, during their play. Children demonstrate good social skills. For example, they listen carefully and follow instructions well. They enjoy going on trips, such as swimming, seeing the animals at a small farm and taking part in exciting activities in the forest.

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Personal development, behaviour and welfare are good

Children enjoy a warm relationship with the childminder and this helps them to feel safe and secure. Children have fun. They are confident to freely explore the toys and resources available. The childminder is a good role model and children behave well. She provides them with consistent boundaries and expectations and involves them in helping to consider 'house rules'. They learn to be kind to each other and to take turns and share their resources. Children tidy away their toys after play and put on their own shoes and coats when going outside. They are encouraged to use good hygiene routines. For example, children know to wash their hands when they arrive back from school and before eating. The childminder encourages children to eat healthily and drink water throughout the day. Children learn about different festivals, such as Chinese New Year and Diwali. This supports their knowledge about similarities and differences in each

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Setting details

Unique reference number EY475664 Local authority Hertfordshire Inspection number 10075789 Type of provision Childminder

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Registers

Early Years Register, Compulsory Childcare Register, Voluntary Childcare Register Day care type Childminder Age range of children 4 - 10 Total number of places 5 Number of children on roll 4 Date of previous inspection 21 April 2016

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Registers

The childminder registered in 2014 and lives in Sawbridgeworth. The childminder cares for school-age children and she operates from Monday to Friday, 7.15am until 8.40am and 3.15pm until 5pm, during school term time. She holds an appropriate qualification at level 3.

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Registers

This inspection was carried out by Ofsted under sections 49 and 50 of the Childcare Act 2006 on the quality and standards of provision that is registered on the Early Years Register. The registered person must ensure that this provision complies with the statutory framework for children's learning, development and care, known as the early years foundation stage.

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Registers

procedures set out in the guidance Complaints procedure: raising concerns and making complaints about Ofsted, which is available from Ofsted's website: www.ofsted.gov.uk . If you would like Ofsted to send you a copy of the guidance, please telephone 0300 123 4234, or email enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk . achieve excellence in the care of children and young people, and in education and skills for learners of all ages. It regulates and inspects childcare and children's social care, and inspects the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass), schools, colleges, initial teacher training, further education and skills, adult and community learning, and education and training in prisons and other secure establishments. It assesses council children's services, and inspects services for looked after children, safeguarding and child protection.

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Registers

If you would like a copy of this document in a different format, such as large print or Braille, please telephone 0300 123 1231, or email enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk .

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Registers

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Registers

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Registers

T: 0300 123 4234 Textphone: 0161 618 8524 E: enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk W: www.ofsted.gov.uk

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