Holly Mount Owls

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this early years setting?

This provision meets requirements Children are happy and content at this friendly club.

Leaders recognise early years children benefit from some quiet time when they first arrive at the club after their school day. There is a separate space for early years children to eat their snack and complete a small activity. They then have the opportunity to mix with older children if they wish to.

Children enjoy talking to the inspector about what they like doing at the club. They recall lots of activities from their time at the club's summer play scheme. For example, children explained about learning to safely climb trees and toast s'mores in the woods behind the s...chool.

Children behave well and are kind to their friends. They help each other to find their coats before going home. Older children link with younger children as "special friends.

" This helps younger children to become familiar with the club and have a familiar person for support. Furthermore, this supports children's emotional well-being and helps to develop positive relationships. All the staff know the children well.

Some of the staff work at the school during the day in other roles. This helps to settle younger children and provides continuity of care.

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

Managers and staff provide a range of activities that support children's current interests.

They also work alongside the early years teachers to link their learning with topics being taught during the school day. For example, children are currently focusing on the book, 'We're Going on a Bear Hunt'. Staff from the club incorporate activities around the book to extend this learning.

Staff effectively support children's understanding of being healthy. They encourage them to manage their own personal hygiene, such as washing their hands independently before snack. Children enjoy a range of nutritious and healthy snacks and opportunities for fresh air outdoors.

Parents are very happy with the club and particularly praise the effective communication between the staff at the club and school. Parents have excellent relationships with the manager and staff, and feel confident to raise any concerns should they arise. Staff provide 'learning journeys' for parents with information about what their children have been enjoying at the club.

This supports effective partnership with parents.Children's physical development is well supported at the club. There are different activities on offer such as, cutting and rolling dough.

Children are very independent; they put on their own coats and help themselves when putting on role-play equipment.Before children start at the club staff find out any essential information and their likes and dislikes. Children can also attend the summer play scheme before starting the school and the club.

When children arrive, they are already familiar with staff and the routines. As a result, they settle quickly.Children have the opportunity to explore a range of learning areas.

They enjoy making "musical shakers" with used items, such as bottle lids and kitchen roll holders. Furthermore, they take part in events such as recycling week. This supports children's knowledge and understanding of the world.

The manager has a good overview of the club. She ensures staff attend mandatory training and works with staff through supervision and coaching to further their professional development. The manager seeks regular feedback from children and parents about the club and any improvements they could make.

This helps support the club's self-evaluation.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.Staff have a good understanding of safeguarding policies and procedures.

They attend safeguarding training as part of their induction process. Leaders and staff are alert to possible signs of abuse and know who to report any concerns to. Staff from the club work closely with the school to ensure continuity for any children and families who may be being supported by children's services.

Staff conduct regular risk assessments to help to ensure that the club remains a safe place for children to attend. Furthermore, they teach children to identify and manage their own risks. For example, they gently remind children to walk indoors to prevent them from falling.

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