Fun Science

Inspection of Fun Science Scout Association, St. Bartholomews Road, Bristol BS7 9BJ

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This provision meets requirements

Children arrive happy and excited, eager to start their busy day. For those new to the club, some can be a little apprehensive. Sensitive, kind staff are on hand to help them settle quickly and feel secure. Staff remain observant and responsive, ensuring all children are content and engaged throughout the day. Children look forward to seeing their friends and forming warm, positive relationships with others. Older children and staff act as excellent role models. For example, younger children, unsure how to decorate their creations, watch the older ones closely, and draw inspiration and confidence to try for themselves.

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This provision meets requirements

Knowledgeable staff skilfully nurture children's scientific understanding in age- appropriate ways. Children are curious and motivated to learn, exploring a wide range of science magazines and information books. They ask staff to read aloud facts of interest and delight in sharing what they've learned, such as crocodiles carrying their babies in their mouths. Staff respond with equal enthusiasm, modelling a love for learning.

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This provision meets requirements

Children's safety is paramount during science activities and throughout their day. Clear rules and boundaries are shared by leaders at the start of the day and consistently reinforced by staff. As a result, children develop a strong understanding of how to keep themselves safe and behave very well.

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need to do better?

n The well-organised club excels in sparking children's curiosity and imagination, particularly through engaging science experiments, which follow a theme for each day. Children eagerly anticipate these sessions, often jiggling in their seats in excitement. Staff explain scientific concepts clearly, using terms such as 'acid' and 'alkali' while linking them to everyday items to support understanding. Children enjoy being referred to as 'scientists' and take pride in wearing their safety goggles. In this way, they develop an understanding that fun and safety go hand in hand. n Leaders and staff ensure all children are included in the wide range of experiences on offer. Beyond the science experiments, they are given ample opportunities to work as a team or freely explore the resources on offer. For instance, children make models with construction equipment and set each other mini challenges, such as building the tallest tower. Children remain focused,

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need to do better?

thinking of ways to strengthen the foundation to prevent premature collapse. Others choose calmer activities, such as colouring seasonal pictures, which helps them unwind and express their creativity. n There is plenty of praise for children's efforts, questions and achievements.

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need to do better?

8 April 2025 Children respond with confidence and intrigue. They know they can approach any member of staff and they will be listened to. Staff get to know children incredibly quickly. They find out more about each child through meaningful discussions. Children beam with pride when they receive certificates at the end of their day. This contributes to a positive atmosphere of celebration, respect and emotional security, where children foster a genuine sense of belonging. n Children's individual care needs are managed effectively. Leaders collect detailed information from parents on registration and continue to communicate closely with families. Before the day starts, staff double-check with parents if any materials used in the science experiments, are not appropriate for their child. This ensures children's health and well-being remain a top priority. n Healthy lifestyles are promoted consistently by staff. Children understand the

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need to do better?

importance of good hygiene routines and bring in nutritious packed lunches. Mealtimes are sociable occasions, with lively conversations held between children and staff. Phrases such as 'food is fuel' help children make meaningful connections between eating well and staying healthy. Outdoor play is active and energetic, with children creating their own games, running freely and building their stamina. n Parents speak highly of the setting. They comment on the warm, welcoming environment, the high quality of care, and how excited their children are to attend. Children proudly take home their science inventions, which become talking points at home. In this way, the connection between home and the club is strengthened. n Leaders are dedicated and child-centred. To help drive continuous improvement, they actively seek feedback from children, parents and staff. In addition, leaders recognise the importance of supporting staff on an ongoing basis to understand

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need to do better?

and fulfil their roles and responsibilities. Staff feel respected and supported. They work together as a cohesive, motivated team to help ensure children have valuable experiences at the club.

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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 2696501 Local authority Bristol City of Inspection number 10372471 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 25 Number of children on roll 27 Name of registered person Fun Science Bristol LTD

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reference number

Telephone number 07708214840 Date of previous inspection Not applicable

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Information about this early years setting

Fun Science registered in 2022 and is an activity club based in a scout building in St Andrews, in Bristol. The setting runs in the school holidays on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9am to 3pm. It employs five members of staff, one of whom holds qualified teacher status.

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Inspection activities

n The branch manager showed the inspector the premises and discussed how they ensure it is safe and suitable. n The branch manager and the inspector discussed how the provision is organised for early years children. n Children spoke to the inspector about what they enjoy doing while at the activity club. n The inspector talked to staff at appropriate times during the inspection and took account of their views. n The inspector and the branch manager carried out a joint observation of an activity. n The inspector observed the interactions between staff and the children. n Parents shared their views of the setting with the inspector. n The inspector looked at relevant documentation and reviewed evidence of the suitability of staff working at the activity club.

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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

8 April 2025 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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T: 0300 123 1231 Textphone: 0161 618 8524 E: enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk W: www.gov.uk/ofsted

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