Deepdale is a registered charity, established in October 1985, and operating from a new building at Boston Spa Children's Centre.
Registered for 30 children, it employs 11 childcare staff and is open during term time from 9am to 3pm. Since 2007, children have been able to attend their 15 hours in any combination of sessional or full days.
Lots of lessons have been learned since flexibility was introduced. The team is well-qualified, knowledgeable and skilled, and regularly accesses professional training.
Planning at Deepdale aims to offer a well-resourced learning environment which is stimulating, exciting and safe; the session plans are designed to promote children's imagination and curiosity and acknowledge the importance of play. Changes have been made to curriculum planning and all are actively engaged in planning. Paperwork such as the observation record sheets have been simplified so record keeping is manageable.
Session plans use the same resources for morning and afternoon sessions, yet the activities and focus change to avoid repetition for children attending the full day. Each session plan incorporates targeted support for individual children. As children reach targets, key workers agree next steps and this is incorporated into future planning.
Each child has their summative play plan updated regularly and shared with parents.
When moving to an extended day, Deepdale decided afternoon sessions would operate with slightly lower numbers. The team is able to provide higher ratios, a quieter session and targeted work with individual children.
The extended offer and flexibility has had benefits all round. Parents are happy because they have an opportunity to use their 15 hours in a pattern that suits their needs. Children can spend time with familiar adults and groups of peers, enabling them to develop consistent relationships and learn how to make friends. The school says it supports individual children effectively and has a healthy waiting list.
Further information:
James Hempsall is director of training and research provider Hempsall's (www.hempsallconsultancies.com)
