Childminder in Nottinghamshire

Overall effectiveness Outstanding

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

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The provision is outstanding

In this exceptionally nurturing environment, children flourish under the expert guidance of the childminder. Tailoring each child's learning journey with meticulous care, she crafts ambitious individual goals that ignite curiosity and inspire growth. Children are empowered to shape their own play experiences, encouraged to explore possibilities and develop their problem-solving skills through engaging daily activities. The children creatively problem-solve, seeking out the perfect tools. For example, children wanted to scoop up more pieces of lemon at once, so they eagerly explored the outdoor kitchen area, ultimately discovering ladles and larger utensils that would help them achieve their goal. A rich tapestry of age-appropriate resources supports their holistic development, fostering a love of learning. Through meaningful, two-way conversations, children are invited to share their ideas and perspectives, building strong relationships with the childminder and their peers.

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The provision is outstanding

Children cultivate a sense of independence under the nurturing guidance of the childminder, who fosters self-reliance at every opportunity. From fetching their own shoes to washing their hands with minimal assistance, all children are encouraged to take ownership of their self-care routines. The childminder sets high expectations for their behaviour, promoting kindness, courtesy, and respect. Children consistently demonstrate exemplary manners, using phrases like 'please' and 'thank you' naturally and thoughtfully. Their awareness of others' feelings shines through in their interactions, as they apologise for unintentional bumps without prompting, that creates a compassionate environment.

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need to do better?

n Children thrive under the expert guidance of the childminder, making exceptional progress and preparing for future transitions with confidence. Through careful assessments, the childminder accurately identifies each child's unique developmental needs and tailors engaging play experiences to foster their growth. This personalised approach is regularly shared with parents and carers, ensuring a seamless partnership in supporting children's success. n Children's vocabulary expands as they engage in meaningful conversations. During a water play activity, for example, they learned about 'wedges' and 'slices' of lemons as they expertly cut them into pieces. Their fine motor skills were further developed as they used tongs to carefully pick up individual lemon pieces and drop them into the 'pink lemonade,' creating a delightful sensory experience. n Children are encouraged to expand their play experiences through thoughtful

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need to do better?

questioning and open-ended exploration. During water play, for example, children are prompted to consider alternative sources of water for their individual watering cans, whether this be indoor water, or from outdoors. By sharing their

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need to do better?

3 September 2024 ideas, they develop confidence in their problem-solving abilities and are rewarded with positive reinforcement. n The childminder fosters a deep appreciation for scientific activity by incorporating hands-on learning experiences. Children are encouraged to explore the connections between different elements, such as observing how sand slows the flow of water in a water play activity. Through these engaging experiments, children develop a curiosity and understanding of their surroundings. n Parents speak highly about the childminder's exceptional care and the warm, welcoming atmosphere she creates for their children. They value the open communication and support she provides, especially in addressing their children's health needs. Parents also appreciate the meticulous attention to detail in assessing each child's individual requirements and implementing tailored plans to support their growth and development.

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need to do better?

n The childminder fosters a culture of independence, empowering children of all ages to take on new challenges. Even the youngest children are encouraged to feed themselves, while older children are supported in overcoming setbacks, such as falling off the balance beam. With patience and encouragement, the childminder allows children ample time to practise new skills, celebrating their efforts and perseverance. Children's positive attitudes towards learning are evident as they try to master the balance beam. Their determination is supported by the childminder's unwavering support. The joy and pride on their faces when they finally succeed are a testament to their resilience and growth. n The childminder thoughtfully designs daily routines that foster a sense of community and engagement. During group time, children come together to participate in a variety of activities, including singing songs, learning about the

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need to do better?

days of the week, and exploring stories related to the day's theme. These shared experiences encourage children to concentrate, participate, and mirror the behaviour of their peers, building important social and emotional skills. n The childminder is a dedicated professional who continuously strives to enhance her skills and knowledge. Through ongoing training and reflective practice, she stays abreast of the latest developments in early childhood education and adapts her approach to support children's growing independence. A prime example is the creation of a sensory room, a thoughtfully designed space that benefits all children in the setting.

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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 EY538172 Local authority Nottinghamshire County Council Inspection number 10351642 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 15 Date of previous inspection 3 October 2018

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Information about this early years setting

The childminder registered in 2016 and lives in Retford, Nottinghamshire. She operates all year round from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, except for the week between Christmas and New Year, bank holidays and family holidays. The childminder provides funded early education for two-, three- and four-year-old children. She holds an appropriate early years qualification at level 3. The childminder works with another registered childminder.

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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 childminder shared evidence of her paediatric first-aid qualifications and her suitability to work with children. n The childminder and inspector conducted a learning walk of the premises together. n The inspector observed the quality of education being provided, indoors and outdoors, and assessed the impact on children's learning. n The inspector spoke to a parent and considered their views, along with other parents' written testimonies n The childminder spoke to the inspector about her intentions for children's learning. n The inspector observed the interactions between the childminder and children.

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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

3 September 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

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