Two Ulverston childminders say they are overwhelmed by their recent Ofsted inspection reports.
Inspectors described mother and daughter Janette Dawson and Nicola Kelly’s services 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".
Janette and Nicola have both been childminding since 2003 and are part of the Furness and South Lakes Children Come First Network. Together they can care for a maximum of eight children and they are currently minding 10 children from 12 months to seven years in their home.
Janette is also a support childminder in Ulverston who helps newly registered childminders in the area. Each has undertaken a number of qualifications related to childcare including level 3 diplomas in childcare, education and pre-school, and a National Certificate in Childcare.
In the Ofsted report, the inspector notes that the childminders "act as positive role models and help them to develop very good behaviour, such as being kind to each other, taking turns and sharing."
It goes on to say, "a particular strength in this setting is the focus on providing children with many opportunities to develop their social skills as they mix with other children and adults in various activities at the local pre-school nurseries, birthday parties and outings."
Responding to the Ofsted inspector's findings, Janette Dawson said:
"We are so pleased to have each obtained an outstanding grade. It's great to be recognised for the professionals we are. We love the job and the children we care for are like our extended family. Like most childminders, we work hard to provide the best possible care for the children we 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."
Cumbria County Council's Children's Information Service provides details on local childminders and also more information for anyone interested in becoming a childminder. The helpline number is 08457 125737.
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Notes
Both inspections took place in November 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 or 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
Follow the link below to visit Ofsted's website where you can find more information about Ofsted inspections