Childminder EY344550

Overall effectiveness Outstanding

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

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The provision is outstanding

Children thrive with the support of this experienced childminder. She plans a highly ambitious and varied curriculum for all children. The childminder takes time to understand children extremely well and uses this information to make sure that every learning opportunity is meaningful and matched to the children's individual needs. For example, she recognises children's fascination with puzzles and imaginative play with vehicles and uses these interests to develop their dexterity to a very high level. With consistently high expectations, she encourages children to manipulate intricate puzzle pieces, connect tracks with precision, and handle small objects with care. Through patient guidance and carefully timed support, children develop excellent hand-eye coordination and control. By setting challenging yet achievable goals within play, the childminder ensures that children make exceptional progress from their starting points

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The provision is outstanding

The nurturing and inspiring childminder develops excellent relationships with children. Children are visibly happy in the childminder's care, laughing together and enjoying the warm, joyful environment she creates. The childminder sets clear expectations for how children interact with each other and with their environment, encouraging turn-taking, sharing, and consideration for others. Children show they feel extremely safe and secure by being confident in moving freely around the house and selecting what they play with. When needed, children seek cuddles from the kind childminder who is quick to provide warmth and affection. This positive emotional environment enables children to feel valued and safe, supporting their curiosity, independence, and enthusiasm for learning.

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need to do better?

n Language development is exceptionally well supported. The childminder takes every opportunity to build children's vocabulary. She talks through what is happening, responds to what they notice in their environment, and expands on their comments. For example, when children show an interest in a spider's web, she introduces new descriptive words such as 'sticky' and 'delicate'. Children repeat words, answer questions thoughtfully, and engage in extremely articulate conversations. n The childminder supports children to develop independence and self-care extremely well. Even very young children show a strong determination to do things for themselves. The childminder gives them the time and space to explore and practise these skills. The childminder consistently encourages children to take ownership of everyday tasks. She celebrates their achievements and offers gentle prompts, only when necessary, fostering a strong sense of pride,

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need to do better?

capability, and perseverance. n The childminder supports children to develop concentration. She uses her rich

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need to do better?

29 September 2025 knowledge of child development to provide engaging interactions that capture children's curiosity and match their current interests. For example, when children pretend to make meals in the play kitchen, she encourages them to explore ingredients and follow simple steps. Through her skilful involvement, children remain attentive and absorbed, building their ability to focus. n The childminder provides excellent support to help children recognise and manage their emotions. When children are upset or frustrated, she responds with calm reassurance, offering cuddles and gentle words that help them feel secure and understood. Her consistent calmness helps children learn that experiencing strong emotions is normal and that they can respond to them in positive ways. n The childminder inspires a strong love of books by providing a rich and engaging reading environment. Children eagerly choose books, join in with familiar stories,

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need to do better?

and explore illustrations. These experiences foster early literacy skills, helping children to recognise words, understand story structure, and develop an appreciation for reading. n The childminder skilfully supports children to build positive relationships and develop early social awareness. She regularly takes them to local playgroups and community activities, giving them valuable opportunities to mix with others and learn social skills in real situations. Through gentle encouragement and guidance, she helps children understand the importance of kindness and cooperation. As a result, even very young children show genuine care for their friends, often offering toys or comfort to others with warmth and thoughtfulness. n The childminder works closely with parents to support every aspect of their children's development. She provides detailed updates on routines, progress, and experiences. The childminder offers simple, practical ideas for home

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need to do better?

activities, such as practising cutlery skills, which further support learning at home. Parents praise her sensitive approach to transitions, healthy eating, and social opportunities, noting how their children have become confident, happy, and independent.

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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 EY344550 Local authority Croydon Inspection number 10399477 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 3 Date of previous inspection 3 December 2019

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Information about this early years setting

The childminder registered in 2006. She has a childcare qualification at level 3. She lives in Sanderstead, in the London Borough of Croydon. The childminder offers care all day, from 8am to 5.30pm on Monday to Thursday, all year round.

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Inspection activities

n The childminder and the inspector discussed how the childminder organises their early years provision, including the aims and rationale for their early years foundation stage curriculum. n Children spoke with the inspector during the inspection. n The inspector observed the interactions between the childminder and the children. n Parents shared their views of the setting with the inspector through written statements. n The childminder provided the inspector with a sample of key documentation on request.

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Inspection activities

29 September 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

29 September 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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