Barracudas (Twickenham)

Inspection of Barracudas (Twickenham) St. Catherines School, Cross Deep, Twickenham, Middlesex TW1 4QJ

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This provision meets requirements

Barracudas (Twickenham) is a vibrant and welcoming camp that offers children a safe and engaging environment in which to play, learn and grow. The atmosphere is lively and full of energy, with staff consistently showing genuine enthusiasm and warmth towards the children. Children behave extremely well. From the moment they arrive, children eagerly look at the day's timetable to see what exciting activities are planned. They are greeted with smiles and encouragement, which helps to create a strong sense of belonging. Activities are well planned and varied from imaginative dance and drama and sports, including swimming, to quieter moments to explore and play. Children are encouraged to take part, share ideas and support one another, which promotes teamwork and builds their confidence.

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This provision meets requirements

Staff are attentive and proactive, stepping in with praise, redirection or comfort as needed. They act as respectful, good role models and always have positive interactions with children. The camp fosters independence and choice, allowing children to take appropriate risks within a structured routine. The indoor and outdoor spaces are well organised and used effectively, ensuring that children remain engaged and stimulated throughout the day. For example, children show sheer delight as they build forts or make passports to go on adventures, searching for the seven wonders of the world.

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need to do better?

n Leaders meticulously plan environments that foster children's well-being. Children engage in a range of activities, such as building forts that promote imagination, collaboration, problem-solving and sharing ideas. They demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the activities. n Leaders and staff manage a camp where children feel secure, valued and free to be themselves. They plan an environment that clearly promotes emotional well- being, physical activity and social development in a fun, inclusive way. n Staff promote children's well-being effectively. Children follow routines, such as washing their hands before snack and lunchtime. Staff gather information from parents about allergies and dietary needs, and provide guidance on nutritious snacks. These practices help children develop a secure understanding of healthy lifestyles n Children are confident communicators. They engage in meaningful conversations

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need to do better?

with staff, who listen carefully to what they are saying. Children delight in talking about previous activities they have enjoyed at the club. For instance, they discuss how much they enjoyed recent 'explore and play' activities. Staff use skilful questioning to encourage children to express their thoughts and ideas and expand on conversations.

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need to do better?

24 July 2025 n Children have lots of opportunities to develop their physical skills. They engage in crafts, drawing and painting, which enhances their fine motor skills for writing in school. Children enjoy playing in spacious outdoor areas and large halls, which helps to build their physical resilience. n Staff complete regular risk assessments to keep children safe during their activities. For example, they frequently review areas, such as the pool, to identify any potential new hazards. Staff also encourage children to consider risks for themselves. For example, children hold rails on the stairs and take swimming tests so staff understand children's ability in the water. Through this, children's understanding of personal safety is promoted. n The leaders and their team are dedicated and committed to providing a very high quality of provision. They demonstrate a strong vision, determination and passion for continual improvement, which is shared by all members of staff. The

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need to do better?

staff are well qualified and use their knowledge and understanding to create an environment for children to explore, thrive and express themselves in their own way. The staff team at the camp feel well supported within their roles. There is a mentoring system in place for all staff to monitor training and offer further professional development opportunities. n Parents are highly positive about the club's organisation, communication and strong focus on safety. Parents highlight their children's enjoyment, particularly of the activities, including swimming and groupings with friends. They praise the helpfulness of staff at drop off and pick up times.

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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 EY330986 Local authority Richmond Upon Thames Inspection number 10392296 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 160 Number of children on roll 158 Name of registered person Young World Leisure Group Limited

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reference number

Telephone number 01480 467 567 Date of previous inspection 14 August 2019

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Information about this early years setting

Barracudas (Twickenham) registered in 2006. The setting runs during Easter and summer school holidays. It operates Monday to Friday, from 8am to 6pm. The club employs 41 staff. All of the staff working with children in the early years age range hold relevant early years qualifications, either at level 7, qualified teachers or at level 3.

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Inspection activities

n The inspector viewed the provision and discussed the safety and suitability of the premises. n Parents' views were taken into consideration. n Staff and children spoke to the inspector during the inspection and shared their experiences. n The inspector observed the interactions between staff and children indoors and outdoors. n The area manager showed the inspector documentation to demonstrate the suitability of staff.

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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

24 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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