A good report for children’s centre in Swindon (From Swindon Advertiser)

Swindon's children centre gets good grade from Ofsted

5:40pm Thursday 25th October 2012 in News By Emma Dunn

INSPECTORS have given a big thumbs up to the way youngsters are taught and cared for at Parks and Walcot East Children’s Centre.

The centre, which is based at Goddard Park Primary School in Welcombe Avenue, has been awarded an overall grade of good by Ofsted officials who visited at the end of last month.

Inspectors praised the staff’s commitment to families and said that as a result children’s progress is good and sometimes outstanding.

Daycare leader Diane Yohans said: “We were pleased that the Ofsted inspection identified that from a young age children develop good independence and that the range of resources and the learning environment effectively support children’s all round development.

“The report also stated that we work very hard to ensure our professional team give children the best start in life.

“One of the many outstanding features in an all round good inspection was that staff have highly effective partnerships with parents and external agencies.”

The children’s centre was also awarded the same grade in its last inspection in 2006.

There are 124 children aged 0 to four in daycare at the centre and plans to increase next year.

Inspectors encouraged the daycare centre to develop its space and use of natural materials in its outdoor playgrounds.

Inspectors said in the report: “Skilled staff facilitate children’s development across all areas of learning through play, strongly supporting those children with additional needs and their families.

“Staff gain an in-depth view of children’s starting points and plan educational programmes that provide interesting and challenging experiences, particularly to promote children’s communication and language.

“The provision strongly meets all requirements to safeguard children’s welfare. Staff maintain detailed, daily documentation to consistently meet children’s care needs.

“It is evident the staff team work together successfully to maintain continuous improvement of the provision.

“Staff commitment towards families and partnership working enhances children’s learning and development. As a result their progress is good and sometimes outstanding.”