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At Shelford Childcare, children are encouraged to become explorers and gain a sense of wonder through the provision of activities and resources that build on their interests and allow them to use their imaginations. Through this they become hands-on learners and develop a sense of belonging and togetherness with their peers.
The small childminding business brings a ‘family’ feel to the care provided and the ability to give important on-to-one attention, while also giving the children the experience of being in a group with a mixed age of children.
‘In the moment planning’ is used because it allows them to relate directly to what children are doing and are interested in at that time – introducing new language, concepts and ideas, asking open questions and checking their understanding through conversations and when they invite staff into their play. The small setting enables children to be regarded as individuals with their own learning styles, personalities and uniqueness, and a focus is given to getting to know their families so their holistic needs can be met. Parents share calendars of events and celebrations that their family participates in to provide relevant ideas for activities and to increase staff and children’s knowledge.
They care for several children with English as an additional language, as well as children who need a differentiated curriculum to support their development and learning, including children who are awaiting assessment for ASD and supporting a child with selective mutism to ‘find’ her voice. The setting’s lead professional liaises with the early support team, children’s other settings and with parents to ensure that each child is supported to develop and grow as individuals and to achieve.
The setting has developed strong links within the local community through local outings and interactions with its neighbours. This can take the form of wishing elderly neighbours happy birthday or taking around Christmas cards, and talking to local people as they pass by to pick blackberries locally. They visit the community allotments and speak to the allotment-holders about seasonal foods and healthy eating and even get to pick some of the produce, taste it and cook with it. Children also enjoy outings to local woods and country parks.
Staff send out parent questionnaires to gather their views on the provision and make changes if appropriate, because it is recognised that each cohort of children and families has differing needs. They form bonds with parents during handover chats and strive to offer advice when asked.
FINALISTS
Bears Daycare – Bewdley, Worcestershire
The Playroom Marple – Stockport, Greater Manchester
Rachael’s Childcare – Staithes, North Yorkshire
CRITERION
Open to settings where registered childminders are working with other childminders and/or assistants, including those registered as ‘childcare on domestic premises’.
