A Thursby childminder says she is overwhelmed by her recent Ofsted inspection report.
Louise Dickson is the first early years provider in Allerdale to achieve '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 2003, Louise Dickson is a member of the National Childminding Association and the North Allerdale Childminding Group. She is registered to care for four children at any one time and currently has twelve children registered with her.
Louise has also achieved a Level 2 qualification in British Sign Language and although she currently does not care for any children who sign she is keen to develop this provision for the area.
In the Ofsted report, the inspector notes that, "All children have a real sense of belonging due to the childminder's extremely warm and caring nature, and her outstanding ability to relate to children.
"They feel special and develop confidence as they are praised for their achievements. Children's individual needs and characters are clearly understood and respected by the childminder."
The report also highlighted the fact that, "Children are able to gain exercise and fresh air from outdoor play in the garden, going on walks to local parks, visiting places of interest and attending a toddler group, where they can use a wide range of play equipment as well as socialise with other children and adults. The childminder helps children to develop a positive attitude that keeping fit and healthy can also be fun."
Responding to the Ofsted inspector's report, Louise Dickson said:
"I am overwhelmed, and really 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."
"Children’s Services have supported me along my journey as a childminder and I will continue to develop my practice with their help and guidance. I would also like to recognise the support I have received from being a member of the North Allerdale Childminding Group; it’s been really helpful to attend a local group who each help one another.
Amanda Coates, Development Worker for the county council's Children’s Services, said:
"Louise is an enthusiastic childminder who attends all of the relevant training and Childminder Exchange meetings we provide.
"She is continually reflecting on, and developing, her practice and is always open to new ideas, which has shone through in her report.
"I am delighted Louise’s provision has been judged as outstanding, it is thoroughly well deserved and as someone who works with Louise on a regular basis, I have no doubt that the care she provides is outstanding at all times."
Cumbria County Council's Children's Information Service can provide details about local childminders. The helpline number is 08457 125737.
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Further information, or to arrange an interview/photo with Louise, Amanda, and some of the children Louise looks after, contact Alison Lister, Media Team, (01228) 606335
Notes
The Ofsted inspection took place in February 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 inspection there has been no complaints made to Ofsted that required the provider of Ofsted to take any action in order to meet the national Standards
The 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 http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/ (external link)