The Hangout Afterschoolclub LTD

Inspection of The Hangout Afterschoolclub LTD Purford Green Infants School, Purford Green, Harlow CM18 6HP

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This provision meets requirements

Children are warmly welcomed on arrival, creating an immediate sense of belonging. Staff take time to greet each child individually and share any important information. New children are sensitively supported through a buddy system, helping them settle quickly and confidently. Staff also introduce themselves and the group, encouraging friendships and building a strong sense of community from the outset.

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This provision meets requirements

Staff gather the children at the start of the day to revisit the club rules. These are reinforced in an engaging and inclusive way, with children confidently recalling expectations, such as using 'kind hands', listening well and helping to tidy up. Staff act as positive role models and consistently reinforce these throughout the day, helping children to understand expected behaviour. As a result, children behave well.

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This provision meets requirements

Children benefit from a well-organised routine that includes a range of stimulating and freely accessible activities. These include role play, arts and crafts, small-world play and games, all of which promote children's creativity, cooperation and independent choice. Staff plan a range of engaging workshops, including external visitors, such as the soft-play bus. In-house activities, such as slime-making and baking, enrich children's experiences. Craft activities are thoughtfully linked to these themes. For example, children paint wooden dragons ahead of a martial arts session.

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need to do better?

n Staff demonstrate consistently strong practice in supporting children's well- being, development and enjoyment throughout the day. Positive relationships between staff and children are evident. Staff join in with children's play, asking thoughtful questions and showing genuine interest in their ideas and conversations. This helps build trust and supports children's communication and confidence. Children talk freely with staff about their interests and experiences, reflecting a warm and supportive environment. n The provision for early years children is delivered effectively. Children benefit from a carefully structured environment that caters to their developmental needs. A dedicated key-person system is in place, ensuring continuity and a strong point of contact for parents. Staff are mindful of younger children's learning needs and provide a variety of age-appropriate resources, including mathematical activities and fine motor skill tasks, such as play dough and

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need to do better?

bracelet making. n Staff demonstrate a strong understanding of how to meet the individual needs of

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need to do better?

5 August 2025 children with special educational needs and /or disabilities (SEND). A range of strategies are used to help children regulate their emotions and understand routines. These include the use of visual timetables, and access to a designated 'calm down' area, equipped with sensory toys and a tent. Staff provide consistent, proactive support, enabling children with SEND to participate fully and confidently in the club activities. n Outdoor play is well resourced and safely managed. Children have access to a wide range of physical play opportunities, including climbing equipment, football and large tyres. Staff remind children of the safety rules before they go out and children show good recall and understanding, knowing not to use the monkey bars. Staff remain attentive and are deployed well to ensure children's safety at all times. n Transitions are managed smoothly throughout the day. Staff give clear

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need to do better?

instructions and supervise children closely during all movement around the club, including lining up for the toilet, snack and outdoor play. Children respond well to routines and follow instructions promptly. Hygiene routines are embedded, with particular care taken to reduce the risk of allergens. Children wash their hands before and after eating, and staff supervise mealtimes closely. n Partnerships with parents are well established and leaders are proactive in communicating with families. A white board at the entrance shares daily updates, while an online page provides regular photos and useful resources, such as healthy eating tips. Parents are encouraged to engage with the club, including responding to surveys or visiting to share their professions and cultural celebrations. n Leaders provide strong support for staff through regular supervisions and observations, ensuring consistent, high-quality practice. Mandatory training is

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need to do better?

kept up to date, and staff are offered a wide range of professional development opportunities. Leaders demonstrate a clear commitment to continuous improvement, ensuring children receive the best possible experiences.

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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 2724945 Local authority Essex Inspection number 10392338 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 669 Name of registered person The Hangout Afterschoolclub Ltd

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reference number

Telephone number 07512011780 Date of previous inspection Not applicable

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Information about this early years setting

The Hangout Afterschoolclub LTD registered in February 2023. The club is based in Purford Green Infant School in Harlow and employs 13 childcare staff. Of these, six hold early years qualifications at level 2 or above. The club opens in the school holidays only from Monday to Friday. Sessions are from 8.30am until 4pm.

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Inspection activities

n Children spoke to the inspector about what they enjoy doing while at the club. n The inspector spoke to staff at appropriate times during the inspection and took account of their views. n The provider showed the inspector the premises and discussed how they ensure they are safe and suitable. n The inspector looked at relevant documentation. This included evidence of staff suitability, staff records and training certificates. n The inspector spoke to parents during the inspection to gain their feedback.

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Inspection activities

5 August 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

5 August 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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