Play in Hallam

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this early years setting?

This provision meets requirements Children receive a warm welcome from staff when they arrive at the club.

They follow routines with confidence. Children listen carefully as staff check who is present and explain their choice of activities for the session. Staff ensure children are supervised well at all times.

They check numbers of children regularly as they move between different areas of the school, for instance, to take part in sports or outdoor activities. Children behave well. They contribute to agreeing meaningful rules, which include being kind, safe and respectful.

Staff promote children's social skills effectively, such as during mealtim...es. Young children sit together with staff and chat while they enjoy their packed lunches. Staff thoroughly check food to make sure that those children with allergies are not at risk.

They offer praise and encouragement during children's play, with additional support for the youngest children where needed. Staff ensure every child develops a sense of belonging, for example they listen to their views and ideas and respond with enthusiasm. They create a positive environment, where children feel they belong.

Staff get to know children and their interests. Children say they enjoy coming to the club as there are always plenty of choices for things to do.

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

The manager reflects on how to make continuous improvements to the holiday playscheme to benefit children's well-being and experiences.

She consults with parents, staff and children and takes account of their views, wherever possible, when making changes. She is passionate about supporting children and families well through the flexible and inclusive provision.Children enjoy a broad range of activities, including sports, baking, arts and crafts, construction play, board games and playground games.

They particularly relish team sports with their friends and join in excitedly, running around until they are out of breath. They benefit from fresh air and exercise.Staff value spontaneous ideas from children, who they encourage to take the lead in their own play.

For example, children make up games to share with their friends. This helps to build their self-esteem.Children practise being independent.

For example, they make choices in their play. They follow routines confidently, such as handwashing and lunchtime preparations. Children willingly help to tidy away resources at the end of sessions.

Staff use effective strategies to signal a change in routine. For instance, they clap when it is time to clear up and children show that they know what is expected of them.Staff are good role models.

They provide additional guidance and support for young children with an effective key-person system. Children cooperate well together, such as when they share and take turns with nets, magnifiers and collection pots for a bug hunt. They form new friendships with each other, often across different age groups.

Children develop good relationships with the adults caring for them.Children learn about keeping themselves safe. For example, staff make sure they know to avoid sharp objects when hunting for insects in the undergrowth under trees.

Children follow instructions well as they move safely around the buildings and grounds. They use sunscreen when they go outside and carry their water bottles to help stay hydrated in the sunshine.The manager supports staff strongly.

She ensures that all staff complete necessary training and are well prepared for their roles. She provides ongoing supervision and support for team members, alongside another manager on site. The manager recognises the importance of positive staff interactions with children.

She makes sure that they understand the policies and procedures that underpin their work.Children have plenty of fun and are enthusiastic during activities. For instance, during a minibeast hunt, they listen carefully to the leader of the group and follow instructions eagerly.

Staff, including key persons, hold ongoing conversations with children, which helps them to practise their socialising and communication skills.

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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