Venture Camps Sandgate Holiday Camp

Highlights from Latest Inspection

What is it like to attend this early years setting?

This provision meets requirements Children are very excited to come into the camp. The staff are welcoming and ensure children settle and engage in activities as soon as they arrive. Children feel happy and safe as they interact with new and existing friends.

They are keen to join in with the exciting range of activities on offer. For example, older children talk about racing in the go-karts and having a go with the archery. Staff set clear rules and boundaries.

They take time to talk to the children at the beginning of the day about how to stay safe at camp. The children attentively listen to staff as they explain the rules for games. For instance, staff ...talk about how many children can stand on the benches during the hot lava game.

The children remind their friends of the rules if there are too many children on a piece of equipment. The children's behaviour is good and they are kind to their friends. For example, older children help the younger children manoeuvre over the large climbing frame.

A fort making activity is a firm favourite with the children and staff alike. The children concentrate as they investigate how to fit the sides of the fort together using the discs and corner triangles. Staff skilfully talk to the children about angles and shapes.

Children develop their problem-solving skills as they use trial and error to build the forts.

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

The provider has clear aims for the future of the camp. They work very closely with the manager and are dedicated to providing high-quality play experiences for all children.

The manager ensures that staff are effectively deployed throughout the day to make sure children are safe and have the freedom to explore. Staff carry out regular risk assessments during the day and remind children of the rules to maintain their welfare.Robust recruitment and vetting procedures have been implemented by the provider.

This ensures staff's suitability to work with children. The staff carry out mandatory training at the beginning of each holiday camp. For example, they watch safeguarding videos and get together via online meetings.

Staff state that they feel valued and very supported in their role.Parent partnerships are strong. The manager and staff communicate effectively with parents.

For instance, parents receive information on daily activities when dropping off and collecting children. Parents state that they are very happy with the holiday camp.The management plan active and fun games for the children to take part in.

The staff make sure that activities are appropriate for children's age and stage. Staff encourage children to take managed risks in their play while reminding them how to stay safe. For instance, outdoors children negotiate space as they drive the go-karts around the playground.

Indoors, staff remind children about the rules, such as keeping their safety glasses on as they play target games.Staff remind children to have a drink and stay hydrated throughout the day. At mealtimes, children come together to eat and talk about what they have been doing.

Children are particularly excited to share jokes and chat with staff. There is a real relaxed feel as children refuel and socialise in preparation for their next activity.Children are keen to engage in conversations with the staff.

The staff listen to the children's ideas and ensure all children take part in activities. For instance, staff encourage children to make up stories about the forts they have constructed. Staff use skilful questioning to encourage children to express their thoughts and inspire their imagination.

Staff provide a wide range of opportunities for children to develop their physical skills. For example, younger children are enthusiastic and motivated when playing a sports day sack race. There is lots of fun and laughter as the children cheer their friends on.

Staff make strong use of praise and encouragement to support children and recognise their achievements.

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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