4-11 After School Care And Learning

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this early years setting?

This provision meets requirements Staff create an exciting and stimulating environment based on the ages and interests of all children who attend.

Children play tennis, football, and use chalks to create pictures in the extensive playground area. Those who wish to engage in more sedate activities, enjoy decorating pencil cases and making keyrings indoors. The vast choice of activities available ensures all children are happy and remain deeply engaged in play.

Children behave exceptionally well. They demonstrate impeccable manners and are kind and supportive to one another. For example, children compliment one another's artwork during craft activities.
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Staff adopt exciting strategies that encourages children to follow the rules and promotes positive behaviour. For example, children receive 'star of the week' awards to acknowledge the positive contribution they make to the after-school club.Staff provide immense emotional and practical care for all children who attend.

They demonstrate genuine enthusiasm when joining in children's play and deep empathy during one-to one conversations. A highly effective key-person system offers additional support for the youngest children and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). As a result, all children settle extremely well and enjoy their time at the after-school club.

What does the early years setting do well and what does it need to do better?

Children settle extremely well in the after-school club. The provider has robust induction processes in place to support this. Staff gather detailed information about children's experiences and interests and use this to inform their planning.

The setting adopts a 'buddy' system for new children. Older, more established children support their new friends during the first few weeks. They engage them in play and familiarise them with the routines of the after-school club.

Parents are highly complimentary about the dedicated staff and the nurturing care they provide. They comment on how children look forward to attending and thoroughly enjoy all the activities staff provide. Parents of the youngest children deeply appreciate the written feedback and photographs documenting children's time at the after-school club.

Children are incredibly confident and engage exceptionally well with staff, visitors, and one another. They chat enthusiastically to visitors, discussing their favourite activities and encouraging them to join in their play. Staff support children's self-esteem well.

They offer an abundance of praise for children's efforts during activities and nominate them for various awards that recognise their talents and achievements.Children of all ages form exceptionally close bonds with one another. They are kind and friendly towards each other and adults.

All children have a good understanding of taking turns and cooperate well in activities. For example, older children organise football matches with their younger friends.Staff work hard to build strong relationships with the schools they provide care for.

They communicate well with class teachers to gather information about children's time at school. Staff collaborate particularly well with teachers when supporting the youngest of children and those with SEND. This ensures all children settle well in the after-school club.

Children's safety is paramount. Staff have a clear understanding of how to identify when children may be at risk from harm and the correct referral process to follow. Staff supervise children well in all areas of the setting.

They use walkie-talkies to communicate with one another, ensuring children are always within sight.The provider regularly evaluates the care she provides. She seeks regular feedback from staff, parents, and children, making changes where appropriate.

Children create a wish list of activities they would like to explore. The provider refers to this when purchasing additional resources. This ensures the club continues to meet the changing needs and interests of all children.

Children develop a good understanding of healthy lifestyles. Staff promote healthy eating by offering a nutritious breakfast and healthy snacks after school. They provide children with a wealth of opportunities to be active.

For example, children organise football matches on the field and have access to play equipment in the extensive playground.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.There is an open and positive culture around safeguarding that puts children's interests first.

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