Childminder in Wirral

Overall effectiveness Outstanding

The quality of education Outstanding Behaviour and attitudes Outstanding Personal development Outstanding Leadership and management Outstanding Overall effectiveness at previous inspection Outstanding

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The provision is outstanding

Children truly flourish in this warm and very welcoming setting. They arrive showing sheer delight and excitement to engage in the wonderfully planned and enticing activities. The childminder consistently adds to resources to spark children's curiosity. For instance, children use props, helping to bring the story of 'The Gruffalo' to life. They follow a recipe to make 'Gruffalo crumble', developing excellent mathematical skills such as identifying numbers, counting and measuring ingredients. Children also link their learning from their favourite story during walks in the woods. They exclaim, 'It's owls house,' when they see a hole up above in a tree trunk. The childminder expertly supports children to build on their fascinations so that they are highly motivated and engaged in learning.

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The provision is outstanding

Children have very high levels of emotional security. They form extremely close bonds with the exceptionally kind and caring childminder. They show that they feel very safe and comfortable in her presence. When children arrive, they place a photo of themselves on an 'emotions board' to communicate how they feel that day. They engage in discussions with the childminder, who is highly tuned in to their emotional well-being. Children talk about how they feel and find strategies to cope if they are feeling emotionally challenged. Children's behaviour is exceptional. They negotiate with each other and talk about any differences in opinion. Children know, understand and follow the clear rules and routines. For example, they patiently take turns to use the slide and give each other the space they need. Children constantly use good manners and are very polite to each other.

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need to do better?

n The childminder has the highest expectations for every child. She gives great consideration to what resources are required that will best suit what she intends children to learn. Her meticulous and thoughtful planning and preparation support children to build superbly on their prior skills and knowledge. Children have plenty of opportunities to practise and master new skills. They make exceptional progress across all areas of learning. n The childminder places a very strong focus on supporting children to be independent and confident in everything that they do. For instance, she gives children simple tasks to complete to help them to feel proud and important. Children are very keen to take on the role of 'drinks monitor' or 'mini vac volunteer'. The childminder offers other strategies for children to help them calm if their feelings overwhelm them. For example, children choose to take quiet time in a dark den, or share cosy cuddle time with the childminder and a

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need to do better?

storybook. This helps children to very quickly self-regulate and manage their emotions successfully. n Children thoroughly enjoy frequent outings in the local community. The

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need to do better?

26 July 2023 childminder very skilfully links new learning seamlessly during these experiences. For instance, following on from reading a book about an enormous turnip, children visited a farmer's field. They searched for crops and learned about growing root vegetables. Children also made vegetable soup and talked about the size and weight of leeks, potatoes and onions. The exceptional range of experiences that children access help to prepare them incredibly well for their future success. n The childminder is passionate about promoting a love of books and a fondness for reading. She recognises that reading with children helps to build on their language and communication skills. The childminder provides a wide range of books and props that are at the heart of children's learning and play. Children are keen to sit and listen during story time sessions. They engage in thoughtful and stimulating conversations with the childminder and their friends. The

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need to do better?

childminder expertly builds on children's growing vocabulary and they become fluent speakers. Children make excellent progress in speaking. n Parents are highly complimentary of the childminder. They say that her dedication to her job is impressive. Parents report that their children have 'made so much progress since starting' and that the childminder shows 'a natural talent and empathy' with children. n The childminder is a highly reflective practitioner and places a strong focus on her continued professional development. She uses new information gained to help to raise outcomes for children. For instance, she has accessed training that supports her in developing children's communication and language skills. Consequently, children benefit from the enhanced teaching and are making excellent progress in this area of development. n The childminder is an excellent mentor who supports other childminders to help

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need to do better?

them to raise their practice to higher levels. She invites other childminders to visit her setting, sharing her knowledge and expertise to inspire them. The quality of the childminder's teaching and interactions with children is inspirational and worthy of sharing with others.

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Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

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Safeguarding

The childminder has a first-rate understanding of safeguarding and a comprehensive knowledge of the signs and symptoms of abuse. She is fully aware of the procedures to follow should she have concerns about a child's welfare. The childminder knows what to do should an allegation be made against her. She has comprehensive risk assessments in place that she uses effectively. The childminder explains to children the reasons for rules, such as not to walk around with food in their mouths. Children learn that food might get stuck in their oesophagus and cause them to choke. This helps them to develop a secure understanding of how to keep themselves safe.

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Setting details

Unique reference number EY441170 Local authority Wirral Inspection number 10301461 Type of provision Childminder

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Registers

Early Years Register, Compulsory Childcare Register, Voluntary Childcare Register Day care type Childminder

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inspection

Total number of places 6 Number of children on roll 9 Date of previous inspection 19 January 2018

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Information about this early years setting

The childminder registered in 2012 and lives in Irby, Wirral. She operates all year round from 8am to 5pm, Monday to Thursday, except for bank holidays and family holidays. The childminder holds an appropriate early years qualification at level 4.

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Inspection activities

n This was the first routine inspection the childminder received since the COVID- 19 pandemic began. The inspector discussed the impact of the pandemic with the childminder and has taken that into account in their evaluation of her practice. n The childminder explained her intentions for the children's development and how she plans and implements her educational programme. n Children spoke to the inspector during the inspection. n The inspector observed the quality of teaching during activities, indoors and outdoors, and assessed the impact this has on children's learning. n The inspector spoke to some parents during the inspection. She took into account the views of other parents through their written feedback.

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Inspection activities

26 July 2023 We carried out this inspection 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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Inspection activities

26 July 2023 regulates and inspects to 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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Inspection activities

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Inspection activities

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Inspection activities

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Inspection activities

T: 0300 123 1231 Textphone: 0161 618 8524 E: enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk W: www.gov.uk/ofsted

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