The Winchester Project

Inspection of The Winchester Project Old Winchester Arms, 21 Winchester Road, London NW3 3NR

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This provision meets requirements

Staff warmly welcome every child into this unique setting. Staff greet each child by their name and ask how their day has been. This helps children to feel safe and secure. Staff are dedicated and friendly. They positively work with children to help them thrive. For example, children confidently move around the environment and gravitate towards staff for cuddles when required.

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This provision meets requirements

Staff are excellent role models for behaviour, and children respond well to boundaries. Children are kind, calm, and empathetic, with older children being particularly caring towards their younger peers. Staff support children to develop their independence skills very well. The setting has a 'Winch Children's Council' that invites children to be part of a parliament. Children are able to have their voices heard and are a big part of decision-making in the setting.

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This provision meets requirements

Staff support children's social skills very well by planning fun group activities. For example, children are split into mixed-age teams to play dodgeball. Children are able to build on their social skills, share, take turns, and follow instructions. Furthermore, children are able to build cross-community links as they develop friendships with children from different schools. This further strengthens a sense of belonging in the local community.

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need to do better?

n Every member of staff is long standing and committed to providing high-quality care for all children. For example, staff complete training to develop their knowledge and understanding of children with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Staff use this knowledge to build on their existing skills and provide an inclusive environment for all children. n Staff help children to develop their self-confidence. Children are encouraged to plan dance and drama shows. Children perform these for friends, which helps to build their self-esteem. n Staff support children's emotional well-being. Staff know children very well and are sensitive to their needs. For example, when younger children are feeling overwhelmed they are taken to the 'Lego room'. This helps children to calm down and feel more comfortable. n Staff skilfully support children to enjoy fresh air and exercise. For example, children play ball games in the adventure playground. Children are able to run

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need to do better?

and jump. They strengthen their leg muscles as they play outside, regardless of the weather. n Staff support children to develop healthy eating habits. One member of staff, who the children affectionately refer to as 'grandma', cooks healthy and

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need to do better?

12 March 2024 nutritious meals for all children. This means that children are able to access a varied and balanced diet. n Staff use resources well to help children to learn new skills. For example, younger children use play dough and cutters to create shapes and letters. Staff model correct letter formation, which children copy. Younger children benefit from these more-focused activities as they continue their learning from school. n Staff have excellent behaviour management skills. Children are incredibly polite and follow instructions immediately. For example, children understand that when staff clap they must copy to stop and listen. Children learn to follow instructions through these rules, and children's attention is gained quickly. n Staff understand children well and adapt their approach accordingly. For example, as children get older, staff understand the potential risks of social media to children's safety. Staff teach children to recognise the risks that they

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need to do better?

could be vulnerable to, and what to do if they do not feel safe. Children learn to protect themselves by gaining this knowledge from an early age. n Parent partnerships are a true strength of this setting. Parents say that the setting is 'like a family'. For example, they are helped with managing changes, such as children starting school. n The manager is incredibly passionate about her role. She prioritises staff happiness by creating a positive work environment. Staff report that there is very good individual support for their well-being. In turn, the well-supported staff create a positive atmosphere for children to thrive.

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Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.

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Safeguarding

There is an open and positive culture around safeguarding that puts children's interests first.

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Setting details

Unique reference number 116358 Local authority Camden Inspection number 10316912 Type of provision Childcare on non-domestic premises

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Registers

Early Years Register, Compulsory Childcare Register, Voluntary Childcare Register Day care type Out-of-school day care

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inspection

Total number of places 50 Number of children on roll 42 Name of registered person The Winchester Project

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reference number

Telephone number 020 7586 8731 Date of previous inspection 11 May 2018

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Information about this early years setting

The Winchester Project registered in 1994. It is located in the London Borough of Camden. The setting opens on weekdays from 3.30pm until 6pm during term time, and from 9.15am until 5.45pm during school holidays. The setting employs seven staff members, including the manager. Of these, one holds early years professional status and two hold relevant qualifications from level 2 to level 6.

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Inspection activities

n This was the first routine inspection the provider received since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The inspector discussed the impact of the pandemic with the provider and has taken that into account in their evaluation of the provider. n The inspector observed the interactions between staff and children. n The manager and the inspector conducted a learning walk. n Parents shared their views with the inspector. n The inspector and the manager conducted a joint interview. n The manager shared key documentation with the inspector about the suitability of staff.

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Inspection activities

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

12 March 2024 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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