Little Gems Afterschool Club

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this early years setting?

This provision meets requirements Children arrive excited and happy at the friendly and well-organised club. They chat and laugh with each other and adults as they relax after their school day.

Children show that they are independent, confident and happy. They swiftly choose their own activities and concentrate on completing their tasks. For example, children spend periods of time creating 'masterpieces' with junk modelling resources.

Children behave extremely well and show they understand the behaviour expectations. All children at the club interact with each other and staff politely and calmly. They show a good understanding of the club's 'golden rules' ...and follow them well.

The provider and staff are excellent role models. They work together to make sure children feel happy and safe while attending the club. Staff always deploy themselves well to ensure excellent supervision of children.

They consistently check the numbers of children as they move between environments. Staff show enthusiasm as they take part in activities and play games with the children. Children are regularly praised by staff and feel proud of their achievements.

Staff ask for children's views on what they like to do during the sessions. This informs future planned activities tailored to the interest of children that attend.

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

The experienced provider is passionate about providing high-quality care for children.

She knows the children's personalities very well and shares this information with staff. The provider evaluates the effectiveness of the club. She continually makes positive changes to meet children's individual needs and improve daily experiences.

The provider monitors staff practice carefully. She can identify good practice and the impact it has on children's engagement and development. She has regular meetings with her staff and offers them regular training opportunities.

Children of all ages play well together. They are self-motivated and engaged throughout the club session. Children form strong friendships and enjoy each other's company.

Older children support younger children as they settle into their new environment. Children are confident to share their views and say that the club 'is fun' and they like 'playing games'. Others enjoy doing arts and crafts and taking their finished work home.

This helps them build on their creative and social skills.Children have plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh air and develop their physical skills. They show delight when exploring the climbing equipment in the playground.

Children work together as they negotiate with one another on the equipment. They take risks as they skilfully climb and balance, showing excellent body control.The provider and staff encourage children to be highly independent.

They follow good hygiene routines, such as washing their hands before eating. Younger children confidently share the importance of washing 'germs' off their hands. Mealtimes are sociable occasions where children and staff come together.

Staff support children to learn the importance of healthy eating. Children tell staff that they need healthy food 'to give their bodies more energy to play'.Staff speak passionately about the children and how well they know them.

The designated key person for younger children establishes strong attachments to support their emotional well-being. The key person swiftly recognises when younger children are shy or unsure. She sensitively guides them to quieter activities.

Staff build positive relationships with all children to help promote their well-being.Parents are complimentary of the care and opportunities their children receive at the club. They share that staff expertly communicate information and that children are safe and happy.

Parents are in awe of the attention to detail that the provider and her staff pay to each individual child. They feel the staff are 'supportive and caring' and that the club is a 'fantastic' end to the school day.Partnerships with the host school are strong.

The headteacher is happy with the service the club provides. Some staff also work in the host school and know the children who attend the club. They hold regular discussions with class teachers about each child's welfare.

This supports children's continuity of care.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective.The provider and her staff understand their responsibilities to safeguard children.

They complete mandatory training and are passionate about continuously updating their knowledge, including on risks such as domestic abuse, cyberbullying and exposure to extreme views. The provider consistently tests and strengthens staff's knowledge. Staff are aware of procedures to follow should they need to report a concern about a child or an allegation against a colleague.

The provider follows effective safer recruitment procedures. She also regularly checks the ongoing suitability of staff working with children. Staff maintain the premises as a safe and secure environment for the children.

Also at this postcode