Childminder in Essex

Overall effectiveness Good

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

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The provision is good

The childminder provides a rich and engaging environment that supports the holistic development of each child in her care, allowing them to make good progress. The childminder places a big emphasis on physical development through regular outdoor activities, such as forest school sessions, music and movement classes and garden play. Children benefit from access to resources that encourage both gross and fine motor skills, including bats, balls, scissors, puzzles, and dressing themselves. These experiences help children to build coordination, strength and confidence. Events such as sports day, which involve parents and the wider community, further support social development and create a sense of belonging for both children and their families.

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The provision is good

Children are respected as individuals. The childminder demonstrates attentive care by speaking with parents about their child's preferences and needs, for example checking whether they enjoy sand before planning a beach outing. Communication with parents is used to support planning and emotional well-being, resulting in happy, settled children. Children's learning is extended through everyday conversations and activities. Discussions about the human heart, 'World Bee Day' and fireworks allow for natural learning moments, with the childminder using appropriate questions to encourage curiosity and memory recall. These opportunities allow children to build on their knowledge of the world. Children are supported to explore future aspirations, such as wanting to be a doctor, giving them a sense of identity and purpose. They talk proudly about their achievements, such as doing up their shoes independently, supporting high levels of self-esteem.

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need to do better?

n The childminder knows each child well. She has a clear vision of what children need to learn next and plans a curriculum that builds upon what children already know and can do. The childminder promotes children's holistic development effectively, particularly around children's communication and language development, literacy and mathematical learning through daily activities and her interactions with them. n Children separate from their parents extremely well and settle into sessions quickly, becoming engaged in activities and remaining involved in a range of experiences throughout their day, promoting high levels of concentration and involvement. n A big emphasis is placed on recycling and giving children the responsibility of caring for the planet. Children are provided with first-hand experiences of sustainability, such as using the local bottle bank or composting leftover food. As a result, children are considerate and conscientious of the natural world.

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need to do better?

n Children are especially kind and loving towards each other. They are extremely

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need to do better?

21 May 2025 well behaved and mindful of each other's needs and feelings. Older children act as positive role models for younger ones by sharing toys and inviting them to join in with games and activities when they see them playing alone, creating an inclusive environment. n The childminder makes great use of the local amenities, such as play groups, the library and zoo. She incorporates this into an exciting curriculum, resulting in children being given opportunities to learn about and experience things they might not get to otherwise. Children also gain a greater understanding of the natural world as they explore green spaces and the beach that are close by. n The childminder has built a strong local network and liaises very well with families and other settings, including primary schools and nurseries to share vital information and fully support children's transitions. This allows children to approach changes confidently and feel secure when these transitions are in

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need to do better?

progress. n Strong, meaningful partnerships with parents have been developed. The childminder is highly regarded and is seen as an 'extension of the family'. This creates trusting and secure relationships, which are observed by the children and emulated. Families often return with siblings. n Children are tremendously independent, with opportunities being provided to dress themselves, prepare their own snack and regularly choose activities and experiences. This empowers children to make decisions, developing their self- esteem and self-worth. n Early years pupil premium funding is used effectively to support children's development. Tailored resources, such as busy boards and lock boxes, are provided to enhance children's early interests. Additional sessions are also provided to help children settle and build self-confidence. n Opportunities are provided in the setting for children to make marks and be

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need to do better?

creative. However, some pre-printed worksheets do not always allow for this to take place or give children the chance to fully explore different media.

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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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should:

n review the use of available resources to promote children's creativity and enable them to freely express themselves.

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Setting details

Unique reference number EY437727 Local authority Essex Inspection number 10398642 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 6 Date of previous inspection 4 November 2019

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Information about this early years setting

The childminder registered in 2011 and lives in Clacton-on-Sea, Essex. She operates all year round from 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, except for bank holidays and family holidays. The childminder holds an appropriate early years qualification at level 3. The childminder provides government funded childcare for all eligible children.

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Inspection activities

n The childminder showed the inspector the premises and discussed how they ensure they are safe and suitable. n The inspector observed the quality of education being provided, indoors and outdoors, and assessed the impact that this was having on children's learning. n Children spoke to the inspector about what they enjoy doing while with the childminder. n The inspector observed the interactions between the childminder and the children. n The inspector looked at relevant documentation and discussed how the childminder safeguards children's welfare. n The inspector spoke to parents and read testimonials and took account of their views. n The childminder talked to the inspector about how she evaluates the effectiveness of her provision and drives ongoing improvement.

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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

21 May 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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Inspection activities

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

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