Nothing to fear
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
When I read the 'Letter of the week' (4 August) I did not know whether to laugh or cry. Surely the whole point of the unannounced inspections is to raise standards and to prevent settings raising their game just for a short period of time while they feel that their inspector might call.
Surely the whole point of the unannounced inspections is to raise standards and to prevent settings raising their game just for a short period of time while they feel that their inspector might call.
Keeping paperwork up to date is an essential part of childcare - personal detail sheets, attendance, pay, Birth to Three Matters, Foundation Stage and so on. Providing evidence of children's work is essential to develop children's awareness and pride in their efforts and to show parents what their children have been doing. An inspection is simply a case of showing Ofsted what you show the parents.
No setting should need to think twice about outings or visitors - they should have clear systems, procedures and protocols to ensure the safety of the children at all times, not just in case an inspector calls.
Regarding holidays, what a shame that this manager and deputy do not have enough confidence in each other, their systems or their staff to be away from their setting.
And as for the cartoon, what a shame that Ofsted is pictured as a dark shadow to be feared.
We have an excellent relationship with Ofsted. Perhaps it is simply a frame of mind. We do not fear Ofsted inspectors, but see them as partners who wish to give us an opportunity to demonstrate how good we are, and provide valuable and constructive advice as to how and where we might improve.
* Steve and Barbara Whitewood, 0-2-12, registered accredited network childminders and early years education providers, Sarisbury Green, Hampshire
