Willowdene Club

Inspection of Willowdene Club Christ Church, Reading Road, Chineham, BASINGSTOKE, Hampshire RG24 8LT

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This provision meets requirements

Children arrive confidently and engage well with familiar staff. Transitions between school and the after-school club are smooth and very well managed. Leaders ensure that children's school teachers share relevant information about each child's school day. Staff use these details to support children's emotional well-being. As a result, children quickly settle and happily choose from a range of activities that reflect their interests. They chat enthusiastically with staff, who are attentive, responsive and genuinely interested in children's contributions. Interesting conversations take place about children's day and upcoming plans. This demonstrates that children feel safe, comfortable and secure.

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This provision meets requirements

Staff have high expectations around children's behaviour and safety. Children are polite, well mannered and behave exceptionally well. Clear routines are firmly in place and children follow the rules and staff's instructions with ease. Older children mirror staff's kindness and compassion as they play cooperatively with younger peers. For example, they thoughtfully suggest ways to play board games that are available to them. Children readily share and take turns, without the need for reminders. Staff provide plenty of praise, especially when children recognise that they need quiet moments to unwind after a busy day at school. Others choose to explore their creativity and make unique props, such as a 'tickle stick' with feathers attached to one end. Staff laugh and join in the fun, reinforcing the warm and mutually respectful atmosphere that characterises this inclusive club.

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need to do better?

n All children remain focused and engaged throughout their time at the club. They thoroughly enjoy playing games with staff, such as noughts and crosses. Staff skilfully encourage children to think critically about where to place their marks and to consider their partner's next move. Conversations flow naturally. For instance, after practising the game a few times, they excitedly recognise it by an alternative name, 'tic tac toe'. These meaningful social interactions contribute to children's overall development and help them form strong, positive relationships. n There is a well-balanced mix of child-initiated and adult-led activities available. Children develop their decision-making skills as they decide whether to take part in these activities or use their time to relax. Staff readily embrace children's ideas and suggestions, such as introducing a daily disco, demonstrating that their voices are heard and respected. This approach helps children feel welcome

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need to do better?

and valued, as well as fostering a true sense of belonging. n Children's health and hygiene routines are promoted effectively. For example, they demonstrate a secure understanding of the importance of washing their hands on arrival, before eating and after using the toilet. Staff are well informed

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need to do better?

17 July 2025 about children's allergies, dietary requirements and medical conditions. They talk to children about alternative options, to raise their awareness. During a health- themed activity, children draw on their prior knowledge and impressively identify whether different foods are healthy or not. They discuss where milk comes from, including goats, cows and plants. Children know the benefits of drinking milk on their bodies, such as to strengthen their teeth and bones. Staff praise children's contributions and show a true appreciation for their knowledge and awareness of healthy lifestyles. n Children speak positively about their experiences at the club. They describe the minibus journey from school as a real treat and enjoy the sense of adventure it brings. Staff know each child's personalities well and children often share humorous moments with them, which creates a joyful and relaxed atmosphere.

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need to do better?

Children say that they love playing with the different resources, particularly those they do not have at home. For instance, they immerse themselves in the kitchen role-play area and invent impressive meals for their friends. Staff eagerly engage with children, showing their excitement, for example, when using the arts and crafts equipment. This encouragement inspires children to express themselves creatively through art. n Staff provide children with ample opportunities to develop their physical well- being, such as through exploration in the woodland area. These experiences are extremely welcomed by children, who demonstrate perseverance and determination when tackling challenges, such as when negotiating the newly created rope walk. Older children support their younger peers by offering helpful hints and encouragement, while younger ones show resilience as they concentrate and swiftly recover when they lose their footing. Staff celebrate

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need to do better?

children's efforts and achievements, which significantly boosts their self-esteem and confidence in their own abilities. n Leaders have an accurate understanding of the club's strengths and areas of development. They are passionate about delivering the highest standards of care and enriching experiences for children. Recognising the positive impact of children's outdoor exploration, leaders plan to further enhance the woodland area, such as constructing tables from recycled materials. The close-knit staff team take great pride in creating a safe, enjoyable space, where children can thrive and have fun. n Relationships with parents are strong and built on trust. Staff ensure that any school messages are communicated effectively. Parents speak positively about the club. They notice how keen their children are to attend and how much they enjoy the nutritious, home-cooked meals. Parents highly value the staff team's

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need to do better?

child-centred approach, and comment that 'children always come first' at this club. Staff and parents work together well to ensure children's happiness.

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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 EY471829 Local authority Hampshire Inspection number 10399068 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 112 Number of children on roll 63 Name of registered person Hargraves, Marilyn

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reference number

Telephone number 01256324191 Date of previous inspection 19 November 2019

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Information about this early years setting

Willowdene Club registered in 2013. The club operates from Christ Church, in Basingstoke, Hampshire. It offers care before and after school, during term time and also offers a holiday club. The club is open Monday to Friday, from 7.30am to 9am for breakfast club and from 3pm to 6pm during school term times. The holiday club is open daily during the school holidays from 8am to 6pm. The club employs six staff, four of whom hold appropriate early years qualifications from level 3 to level 6.

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Inspection activities

n The inspector viewed the provision and discussed the safety and suitability of the premises. n The inspector observed children's interactions with staff and in their play indoors and outdoors. n The inspector viewed a sample of documentation, such as suitability records for staff. n The inspector had discussions with the manager, staff and children at appropriate times. n The inspector spoke to several parents during the inspection and took account of their views.

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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

17 July 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

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