After-school club rated inadequate (From Swindon Advertiser)

After-school club rated inadequate

10:00am Thursday 20th October 2011 in News By Emma Dunn

AN AFTER-school club for young children which promises childcare of the highest standard has been judged inadequate by Ofsted officials.

Inspectors who visited The Big Adventure Club, at Lainesmead Primary School, which is just one of the club’s settings, could not find evidence all members of staff had undergone Criminal Records Bureau disclosures and also found the manager did not hold an appropriate qualification.

Evidence that staff were first aid trained could not be provided either and officials have ruled insufficient procedures were in place to ensure children are adequately safeguarded.

Inspectors said: “The owners and manager have some understanding of the areas for development; however, systems to evaluate practice are not adequate to meet the specific legal requirements of the early years foundation stage, with regard to the suitability of adults and documentation.

“Nevertheless, children are welcomed by friendly staff who follow adequate procedures to gather sufficient information about children’s individual require- ments to meet their needs overall.

“Children settle well and take part in a suitable range of activities which support their development, although the setting has yet to establish an appropriate space for children to rest.”

The setting, which has two members of staff working with the children, operates between 3pm and 6pm, five days a week, during term times only.

It was registered earlier this year to care for up to 24 children under eight years.

Inspectors added: “Staff sufficiently meet the needs of children overall. They are seen to care about children and be sensitive to their needs. For example, staff are aware some children need quiet time, or support in play.”

Officials have said that to improve, the club must ensure people whose suitability has not been checked do not have unsupervised access with children and ensure the manager holds a full and relevant level-3 qualification – which he is currently undergoing training for.

The club also needs to ensure records are easily accessible and available for inspection by Ofsted and maintain a record for risk assessment.

Peter Bailey, childcare director at The Big Adventure Club said: “We have no comment at present.”