Early Years Local Offer response

Learning and development

Systems and strategies we have in place to identify children that may require additional support

Regular observations are carried out to assess all children's learning and to identify their interests, characteristics of learning and stage of development. Assessments include a baseline, 2 year old check and ongoing observations. We use the ECAT monitoring tool to identify speech and language needs. Every child has a keyworker who receives support and advice from the SENCO's.

How we identify and support children's learning and development needs

The activities provided along with our enriched learning environment are planned to meet the children's interests, needs and abilities. Resources are accessible, both indoors and out, enabling children to make choices and become independent learners. Keyworkers and other staff support children through scaffolding their learning, ensuring they reach their full potential.

Links we have to other agencies

We have a good working relationship with our Area SENCO, the Inclusion Team and Speech and Language Therapists. We have links with the Child Development Centre and Educational Psychologist. We work very closely with Kennall Vale Primary School.

How we support children transferring to school

During the Summer Term, teachers from local primary schools visit our Setting to meet and engage with the children. We support all local schools' transition arrangements. In particular, children who will attend the neighbouring Kennall Vale School, visit the school for three afternoons. Additionally, a lunchtime visit is arranged for the children to experience the lunchtime routine. We liaise with teachers so that they gain a good background knowledge of every child's needs, interests and abilities. Additional transition arrangements are planned to support children with SEND and their families.

Welfare

Specialist skills or training our staff have

The majority of staff are qualified to level 3 or higher, their professional knowledge and many years of experience provide  positive experiences for children in an inclusive, interesting and caring setting. All members of staff have paediatric first aid and have undertaken child protection training, which is updated on a regular basis. Staff continue to develop their skills and knowledge through ongoing training and courses. The SENCO regularly attends network meetings and training to ensure the best outcomes for our children. We are a recognised Makaton Setting and have in-depth knowledge and experience of Autism and Downs Syndrome.

Support we offer regarding children's health and well-being

We work closely with parents to establish good relationships and complete an initial profile when a child joins us. This enables us to gain valuable background information and support transition into pre school. Keyworkers ensure that all children are made to feel included, safe and valued within the Setting. Our staff are aware of the Prevent Duty and actively promote 'British Values' to enable children to be become compassionate, considerate adults. 

All adults are good role models and endorse good behaviour, such as kindness and willingness to share. Children are given constant opportunities to make their own choices and develop their independence. We offer a free-flow system from the indoors to the outside, this enables children to enjoy the fresh air throughout the year.

Children's nutrition is of paramount importance to us. We have a level 4 award in the Nippers Nutrition programme and have been awarded the highest level Food Hygiene rating from the Local Authority. All snacks provided are healthy and well-balanced and we support parents in providing a healthy packed lunch. Children can access water to drink at all times.

Low level toilets and handbasins enable children to access these independently and children learn about the importance of good hygiene. A planned daily physical activity supports children in learning about the importance of exercise and the effect it has on their bodies. The prime location of our Setting, on Ponsanooth playing field, allows the children to have extended opportunities to explore larger climbing equipment. Risk assessments are conducted to ensure that the children are safe whilst also providing opportunities to learn about taking risks.

Ways we inform parents about how their child is being supported

Primarily through daily conversation, all staff build strong, positive relationships with parents and carers. Parents are encouraged to be involved in their child's learning by making contributions to their online Learning Journey and advising us of their child's interests. Additionally, we offer parents the opportunity to meet termly to discuss progress, their achievements and any areas where extra support may be required.

Our complaints policy

We follow statutory guidelines and procedures as laid out in our Complaints policy.

Access

Alterations we have made to make our building accessible

The building is accessible for all children and adults.

Facilities we have for personal care

Low level toilets and wash handbasins. Accessible toilet and nappy changing area.

Specialist resources we have

Resources are adaptable to meet the needs of individual children. Specialist equipment and other resources are usually provided by physiotherapists and occupational therapists.

How we include all children in activities, such as trips

We are committed to working in accordance with our Equal Opportunities policy. When planning trips and outings away from the Setting, a risk assessment is completed prior to the trip, taking into consideration the individual needs of all children. Additional staff and parent volunteers ensure that all children's needs can be met.