Empower Kids Club

Inspection of Empower Kids Club Leigh & Bransford Primary School, Hoopers Close, Leigh Sinton, Malvern WR13 5DX

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This provision meets requirements

Staff greet children warmly and take time to check in with them individually, fostering trusting and respectful relationships. As a result, children settle quickly and feel safe and secure in the setting. They clearly enjoy attending the club and form strong, positive bonds with staff, who know them and their families well. This nurturing environment enables children to express their ideas with confidence and make independent choices, promoting their independence and a strong sense of belonging.

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This provision meets requirements

A well-planned weekly themed programme offers children a broad and engaging range of activities. For example, 'Tranquil Tuesdays' include yoga sessions that promote well-being, while 'Wild Wednesdays' feature baking activities that develop practical skills. Staff are highly responsive to children's interests, regularly adapting plans to reflect their ideas. When children expressed an interest in cricket, staff introduced them to the relevant equipment and taught them the rules of the game. This flexible and inclusive approach ensures children feel listened to and valued, which in turn enhances their motivation and engagement. Additionally, opportunities to take part in team games promote children's physical health and support the development of their social skills.

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This provision meets requirements

Staff set clear and consistent expectations for behaviour, which are linked to the school rules and clearly understood by all children. They actively model and promote respectful interactions, contributing to a calm and inclusive environment. Children of all ages play cooperatively and support one another, demonstrating consistently positive behaviour, good manners and respectful attitudes. This reflects their secure understanding of the behavioural expectations in place.

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need to do better?

n Staff offer a wide range of stimulating, age-appropriate activities that reflect children's interests and foster active engagement. They also lead structured activities, such as biscuit decorating and team games. Children confidently choose how to spend their time and take responsibility for their play. A variety of alternative options are consistently available, ensuring all children feel included and engaged in activities they enjoy. n Children are encouraged to express their ideas and contribute to how the space is used, fostering a strong sense of ownership and belonging. This supports the development of their self-esteem and enhances social skills as they work collaboratively with their peers. Children are curious, motivated and fully engaged in a broad range of play experiences. They demonstrate strong communication and teamwork skills. For example, some children invent their

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need to do better?

16 July 2025 own movement games, exploring different ways to cross the hall, while others collaborate on construction activities or enjoy quieter moments colouring and chatting with friends. This varied range of child-led activities effectively promotes both creativity and social development. n Snack time is a calm and sociable occasion, where children of all ages sit together, enjoy their food and engage in relaxed conversation. They make independent choices, such as selecting fillings for their wraps, which helps develop their understanding of healthy eating and promotes autonomy. Staff are nearby to offer support where needed, while sensitively encouraging independence. n The club operates staggered start and finish times, contributing to a calm and well-organised environment. These arrangements support smooth and reassuring transitions, particularly for younger children. Staff collect children directly from their classrooms and ensure they are signed in upon arrival. At the

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need to do better?

end of the session, parents ring the doorbell and staff conduct thorough handovers, ensuring that any key information is shared promptly and effectively. n Healthy lifestyles and independence are consistently promoted through the club's daily routines. Children demonstrate a strong understanding of mealtime expectations. They sit appropriately at the table during meals and wait patiently until everyone has been served. Children value the healthy food options provided and appreciate having choices. If children do not want the main snack, they are offered a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables with favourites, including cucumber and oranges. n Outdoor play is an integral part of the provision, with children enthusiastically engaging in activities, such as hula hooping, skipping and team sports. These opportunities support their physical development and encourage positive attitudes towards maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle.

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need to do better?

n Strong and effective partnerships with parents are a key strength of the provision. Staff maintain open and regular communication with families, ensuring they are well informed and involved in their children's experiences. Parents express high levels of satisfaction, valuing the club's emphasis on purposeful play, the nurturing environment and the prompt, effective handling of any concerns. n Leaders have a clear vision and ensure all staff complete essential training. Staff demonstrate a strong understanding of the club's policies, creating a safe, inclusive and well-organised environment. Effective communication and teamwork support the smooth running of the club, enabling prompt responses to children's needs. As a result, children benefit from a high-quality, well-managed provision, where their welfare is prioritised.

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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 2732868 Local authority Worcestershire Inspection number 10406505 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 40 Number of children on roll 60 Name of registered person Empower Active C.I.C

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reference number

Telephone number 07507895355 Date of previous inspection Not applicable

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Information about this early years setting

Empower Kids Club registered in 2023 and is part of Empower Active. The club operates Monday to Friday, term time only. Sessions are from 7.30am to 8.40am and 3.15pm to 6pm. The club employs three members of staff, one of whom holds an appropriate qualification at level 6.

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Inspection activities

n The inspector viewed all areas of the club used by children. n Children and staff spoke to the inspector during the inspection. n The inspector observed the interactions between the staff and children during the inspection. n The inspector reviewed a range of documentation to demonstrate the suitability of staff. n The inspector spoke to parents during the inspection and took account of their views.

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Inspection activities

16 July 2025 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

16 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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