Inspection

“In the pre-school, leaders ensure that children’s needs are met by effectively planning and delivering activities that help children learn through play and develop their physical, emotional and social skills.”

“Leaders in the early years ensure that staff are well trained so that they understand the children’s needs and deliver a high standard of care. Leaders ensure that appropriate staffing levels are maintained and that staff are deployed effectively so that children receive the support and supervision they need. Arrangements are made so that each child has a specific member of staff assigned to them to oversee their care, which creates stability and allows them to form secure attachments.”

“In the early years, children develop their communication and literacy capability. Staff model vocabulary and scaffold sentences so that children are able to express themselves and develop confidence. Children are also taught basic numeracy, such as counting and telling the time.”

“In the early years, staff plan activities with clear learning intentions linked to all areas of the early years curriculum. The ‘meet and greet’ routines help children practise their communication skills. Children develop their dexterity and fine motor skills through creative activities, for instance using scissors safely and accurately. They successfully learn about the sounds that letters make and how to count and carry out simple numeracy tasks. Staff listen and respond to children’s thoughts and feelings and involve them in decision-making, so that children learn through following their interests.”

“All staff in the early years hold suitable paediatric first aid qualifications.”

“In the early years, children are always within sight or hearing of a member of staff and are supervised diligently while eating.”

“In the early years, practitioners provide careful supervision, calm spaces and clear behaviour expectations so that children show kindness and co-operate well with each other during activities. Through circle time and targeted encouragement, children learn to express their feelings with confidence. Staff are well trained to provide emotional support and consistent key-person relationships help children feel secure and develop resilience.”

“In the early years, leaders promote social development through a variety of experiences so that the children begin to understand the world around them. For instance, children engage in activities such as ‘little chefs’ and ‘little gardeners’ so that they learn practical life skills. Children learn about aspects of life in Britain and how to be responsible in their interactions with others. They co-operate with each other and take turns when engaged in activities.”

“In the early years, effective liaison with health visitors and the local authority enables early identification of needs and improves outcomes for vulnerable children.”