Barracudas (Woodford)

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this early years setting?

This provision meets requirements Staff are kind, warm and caring. Managers and staff work effectively with children and parents to create an inclusive club, where all children are welcome and supported. Children are safe and happy.

They form strong bonds with staff. Older children say they can turn to staff if they have problems or concerns outside of the club. They describe attending the club as a positive and 'major experience'.

Younger children benefit from gentle staff, who understand their needs. They are reminded about washing their hands before they eat. Staff carefully nurture children's independence skills.

Children are encouraged to per...severe, for example, when they have difficulty putting their shoes on. They develop resilience and gain pride from their achievements.Children respond well to the high expectations staff have of their behaviour.

They are polite to each other and say please and thank you. Children are encouraged to learn how to manage risk while playing on large pieces of equipment. Staff carry out regular risk assessments and supervise them carefully as they play.

Children learn about keeping themselves safe. Staff talk to them about drinking water after getting hot from exercise. Children's physical and emotional well-being is important to staff.

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

Parents praise the managers and staff. They talk about how they appreciate the support provided for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities who join the club. Parents say their children are empowered to participate in activities, which provide them with opportunities to experience new environments and people.

Staff ensure there is a secure two-way flow of information with parents. They focus on building strong partnerships with them. Parents say they provide detailed information to staff when their children join the club.

Staff use this information to keep children safe and well.Managers and staff understand that not all children have the same advantages. They strive to provide children with experiences they may not be able to access outside of the club.

For example, children enjoy go-karting, fencing and spend time in woodland that the club has access to. Children benefit from outdoor activities. For instance, they play football and tennis.

Staff skilfully encourage all children to participate fully in the activities they offer.Children build on a wide range of skills. They use their fingers to make intricate patterns using a variety of shapes and creative materials.

Children talk about the shapes using their mathematical words. They make their own resources and proudly wear crowns they have made for themselves as they dress up. Staff plan carefully and support children in following their interests and gaining confidence.

For example, children learn dance routines and prepare to put on a show for themselves and staff.Children think about the food they eat and making healthy choices. They design plates showing what they like to take on picnics and suggest 'cheese' and 'cucumber'.

Children support each other in staying safe. For example, they remind others that 'we sit down' while eating. They develop skills that will support them in later life.

Staff say their professional skills and knowledge are supported. They benefit from regular observations and supervision. Staff discuss how they receive in-depth safeguarding training.

They use this to keep children safe. For example, staff ensure children playing in water during hot weather cannot be seen by passers-by. Staff highlight the support they receive as they take on additional responsibilities within the club.

Managers reflect carefully on the service they provide and how they can build on what they offer children. They spend time observing children and considering how to promote their well-being. Managers are currently developing how they can provide activities that help children think about their emotions and mental health more deeply.

Staff provide opportunities for children to develop their social skills. All children attending the club eat lunch together. Managers say children enjoy this time to sit and relax together.

Children meet new friends and can spend time with siblings.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.Staff benefit from regular safeguarding training.

They use this effectively to keep children safe. Staff talk confidently about the signs and symptoms which may cause them concern about the welfare of a child in their care. They are secure in their knowledge of the policies and procedures to follow if they have a concern.

Staff are aware of how to identify a child who may be at risk of being exposed to extreme ideas or beliefs. Leaders have robust systems in place to ensure that staff are suitable to work with children. For example, they have a rigorous recruitment procedure and carry out relevant background checks.

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