Two Kendal childminders have been overwhelmed by their outstanding Ofsted inspection reports.
Suzanne Earnshaw and Amanda Robb's services were described as 'outstanding' in all the key areas that the report covers:
- helping children to be healthy
- protecting children from harm or neglect and helping them stay safe
- helping children achieve well and enjoy what they do
- helping children make a positive contribution and
- the organisation of the childminding
'Outstanding' is the highest judgement that Ofsted awards in its inspection reports for early years provision, and it means "this aspect of the provision is of exceptionally high quality".
A registered childminder since 1989, Suzanne Earnshaw supports children with learning difficulties, is a member of the National Childminding Association and is the secretary of Kendal and District Childminding Group. She is a childminder for up to six children.
Suzanne is also part of the local 'buddy' scheme, providing support for newly registered childminders, and is one of only two childminders in cumbria to achieve the 'Quality Counts' Award to Level Three.
In the Ofsted report, the inspector notes that "There is a great emphasis on healthy eating and the childminder is very proactive in teaching children about the importance of a good diet." In terms of physical activities, the children "particularly relish their visits to the nearby park......They move with confidence, control and coordination....Their achievements are celebrated which makes them feel very proud of themselves."
The report also highlighted the fact that "Children are very excited when they arrive at the childminders' home" and that they "are inquisitive and ask many questions. For example, the children approach the inspector and engage in conversations. They frequently converse animatedly and are developing their language for thinking as they chat to each other during play....The children benefit greatly from the excellent variety of activities and outings organised for them on a daily basis."
Responding to the Ofsted inspector's report, Suzanne Earnshaw said:
"I am pleased to have obtained an outstanding grade, not just for myself but on behalf of all childminders; it's good to be recognised for the professionals we are.
"I love my job and, like most childminders, work hard to provide the best possible care for the children I look after in a safe, fun and learning environment whilst at the same time offering the flexibility that makes it easier for parents to return to work."
Amanda Robb also supports children with special needs, is a member of the National Childminding Association, and she is the chairperson of Kendal and District Childminding Group. She is a childminder for up to six children.
Amanda has undertaken a number of qualifications related to childcare,including a Certificate of Professional Development in work with protecting children, and is the other childminder in the county, along with Suzanne, to achieve the 'Quality Counts' Award to Level Three.
In her Ofsted report, the inspector highlights that "Children learn about being healthy in may ways because the childminder acts as an excellent role model.........The children spend most of their mornings out and about with the childminder, enjoying a wonderful range of different activities, many of which benefit their physical wellbeing.
The inspector also notes in her report that " Children stay safe and sound and their welfare is completely safeguarded by the fact that the childminder has undertaken Level 3 training in the protection of children" and that they "have excellent opportunities to learn about their own community and make a positive contribution."
Amanda Robb said;
"I am actually really thrilled that these two reports are from inspection visits to childminders.
"They show that people who childmind in their own homes are doing a proper, professional job, and that we are on equal footing with nurseries in providing really good services."
Cumbria County Council's Children's Information Service can provide details about local childminders. The helpline number is 08457 125737
ENDS
Further information, or to arrange an interview/photocall with Suzanne, Amanda and some of the children they look after, contact Alison Lister, Media Team, (01228) 606335
Notes
Both inspections took place in June 2007.
Inspection reports for early years provision are to assure government, parents and the public of the quality of childcare.
The judgements included in the report are made in relation to the outcomes set out in the children Act 2004, the national Standards for under 8s daycare and childminding and, where nursery education is provided, the 'Curriculum guidance for the foundation stage.'
The report also includes information on any complaints about the childcare provision which Ofsted has received since the last inspection. Since the last inspections there have been no complaints made to Ofsted that required the provider of Ofsted to take any action in order to meet the national Standards
They key inspection judgements used in early years provision reports are:
- Outstanding: this aspect of the provision is of exceptionally high quality
- Good: this aspect of the provision is strong
- Satisfactory: this aspect of the provision is sound
- Inadequate: this aspect of the provision is not good enough
You can find more information about Ofsted inspections at www.ofsted.gov.uk
Follow this link to get to Ofsded's website