CHILD PROTECTION POLICY AND PROCEDURE

In addition to this policy and procedure, the setting has adopted the Local Authority's generic child protection policy and procedures. These outline more specific steps to take when safeguarding children and provide relevant contact details from our local safeguarding children board.  The Local authority procedures will be followed in the first instance, and the nursery policy will be used to clarify the specifics of our setting.

Lead practitioners in charge of child protection and looking after children are Mrs Joanne  McManus and Mrs Wendy Brooks

We intend to create in our setting an environment in which children are safe from abuse and in which any suspicion of abuse is promptly and appropriately responded to. In order to achieve this, we will:

Ensure all staff members are police cleared on appointment. Whilst time elapses between the appointment and the arrival of clearance papers, practitioners will not be left unattended with any children. Students will never be left unattended with children.

Exclude all known abusers. It will be made clear to applicants for posts within the setting that the position is exempt from the provisions of the rehabilitation of offender act 1974. All appointments, both paid and voluntary, will be subject to a probationary period and will not be confirmed unless the setting is confident that the applicant can be safely entrusted with children.

Prevent abuse by means of good practice. Adults should not be left with individual children.  In such cases as nappy changing, when this is necessary, the door will be left ajar.  The layout of the setting will permit constant supervision of all children.

Respond appropriately to suspicions of abuse. The first concern will be the child.  Children whose condition or behaviour has given cause for concern will be listened to, reassured, and helped to understand that they themselves are valued and respected and have not been at fault. Changes in children’s behaviour/appearance will be investigated.  Parents will normally be the first point of reference, but if they are not in a position to allay any legitimate anxieties, the matter will also be taken up with the children’s social care department.  In exceptional circumstances, the children’s social care department may be the first point of reference.  All such suspicions and investigations will be kept confidential and shared only with those who need to know.

All staff will be made aware during induction of the ‘what to do if you’re worried a child is being abused – summary’ document. Staff training will cover materials giving practitioners the knowledge and confidence to identify children at risk of being drawn into terrorism, and to challenge extremist ideas. (Prevent awareness training) The department of education has a dedicated helpline:-020 7340 7264 or exremism@education.gsi.gov.uk for any enquiries.

If a volunteer or member of staff is accused of any form of child abuse, he or she will be interviewed immediately by the person in charge of the setting. The person accused may choose to attend the interview accompanied by a friend or colleague and seek advice from a union representative. The person against whom the allegation is made will be informed of the allegation and will immediately be suspended on full pay while an investigation is made.  Confidential records will be kept of the allegation and of all subsequent proceedings.

Keep records. Whenever worrying changes are observed in a child’s behaviour, physical condition, or appearance, for example, signs of neglect, unexplained bruising, marks or signs of possible abuse, or comments that children make that give cause for concern, a specific and confidential record will be set up. The record will include timed and dated observations, describing objectively the child’s behaviour or appearance, without comment or interpretation; where possible, and the exact words spoken by the child; the dated name and signature of the recorder. (Use the format on page 58 of Lancashire’s child protection policy and procedure document.)

Liaise with other bodies. Confidential records kept on children about whom the setting is anxious will be shared with the children’s social services department if the setting feels that adequate explanations for changes in the child’s condition have not been provided.

Support families. Where abuse at home is suspected, the setting will continue to welcome the child and family while investigations proceed.  With the proviso that the care and safety of the child must always be paramount, the setting will do all in its power to support and work with the child’s family.

The registered provider will inform Ofsted and the Lancashire child protection agency of any allegations of serious harm or abuse by any person working at the premises, whether committed on-site or elsewhere, within 14 days of the allegations being made, along with an account of action taken.

MOBILE PHONES AND SMARTWATCHES

Mobile phones are to be kept in handbags in the staffroom during working hours. Use is limited to lunch breaks. The nursery phone number can be given as an emergency contact. Smartwatches and equivalents must be deactivated to use of cameras and text messages whilst in session with the children.

We request that parents will not use mobiles during the ‘drop off’ and ‘pick up’ periods. Anyone found using a mobile device within the nursery will be asked to switch it off.

Photographs and Images

Consent will always be gained from parents before any photographs of their children are taken or used for educational publications or training purposes. Permission is sought from all parents in the admissions document. (This will be included on the child’s admission form).

Photographs of children will only ever be taken on nursery cameras, and these devices will remain on the premises at all times.

OFSTED HELPLINE 0300 1231 231

Catherine Isherwood; 07909 001 430 / 01772531555

(Advice and safeguarding concerns)

Children’s Social Care Services Emergency Duty team office hours 03001236720

Children’s Social Care Services Emergency Duty team out-of-office hours 03001236722

LCC confidential whistleblowing 01772 532500

Lancashire early years safeguarding officer 07909 001 430

Local authority designated officer (LADO) 01772 536694

Police 01772 203203

STAFF TRAINING

Designated Lead Practitioners – Mrs Joanne McManus and Mrs Wendy Brooks

Safeguarding Level 1

All staff.

Safeguarding Level 2

Mrs Joanne McManus and Mrs Wendy Brooks

LOST OR UNCOLLECTED CHILD PROCEDURE

If it becomes apparent that a child is missing during a nursery or out-of-school club session, one member of staff will search the building and grounds.  Another member of staff will group the remaining children together to complete a head count. If the child is not immediately accounted for at this stage, then the parents and the police will be informed.  Children are counted as part of the daily routine at specific intervals within the day.

If a child is not collected from the nursery or out-of-school club, then parents will be contacted.  Two members of staff will remain at the nursery or out-of-school club with an uncollected child. If, in rare circumstances, no one can be contacted, then children’s social services will be informed after half an hour and alternative arrangements will be made for the collection of the child. Parents will be charged the costs incurred by the setting as a result of the lateness. This may include staff wages and childcare costs, such as after-school club fees for staff children.

POLICE 01772 614 444

Children’s social care emergency duty team 0300 123 6722 (out of hours)

South Lancashire's children’s social care services 0300 123 6720 (office hours)

Early years safeguarding officer

Catherine Isherwood 07909 001 430 / 01772 531 555

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

We aim to provide the highest quality education for all our children. We believe children and parents are entitled to expect courtesy and prompt, careful attention to their needs and wishes. Our intention is to work in partnership with parents, and we welcome any suggestions on how to improve our group at any time. There is a suggestion box, permanently available, where parents can leave comments anonymously if they wish. Many concerns can be resolved quickly with an informal approach to the appropriate member of staff. If this does not achieve the desired result, the following procedures should be used.

• Firstly talk to the manager Mrs Wendy Brooks

• Secondly, contact Mrs Joanne McManus at 01257 262070

• If this proves unsatisfactory or a problem recurs, then a formal letter should be sent in writing to the manager. Any written complaints relating to the welfare requirements will be investigated by the registered provider, Mrs Joanne McManus, and the complainant will be notified in writing of the outcome within 28 days of having received the complaint.

• Following this, parents and the manager should meet, and an agreed record of the discussions should be made.

• Any records will be kept for three years and will be made available to Ofsted on request.

• If the matter is still not resolved to the parent’s satisfaction, then the registering body should be contacted.

• The owner, Mrs. McManus, must be informed of any complaint made at any of the above levels. A record of all complaints will be kept in the filing cabinet and will be made available if any parent requests to see it.

Registering body: Tel 03001231231

The National Business Unit, Ofsted, Piccadilly Gate, Store Street, Manchester M1 2WD

Further information is available in the operational plan within the safeguarding and welfare requirements for information and records, this includes information about:

Admissions from

Parental responsibility

Parents handbook

Information for parents about the EYFS

Complaints record

Ofsted report

ADMISSIONS POLICY

It is our intention to make our nursery and out-of-school club genuinely accessible to children and families from all sections of the local community. In order to accomplish this, we will:

• Ensure that the existence of the nursery and out-of-school club is widely known in the local community. We advertise on social media, which is shared around on groups and pages to reach the wider community.

• Arrange our waiting list in order of the dates parents would like their children to start. Parents will be consulted if their start date is available and what the procedure will be if spaces are not available at that time.

• Provide places on a first-come, first-served basis within age bands. Four-year-olds will have priority, followed by three-year-olds, and then two-year-olds. This is to ensure that families moving into the area also have equal opportunities.

• Make our equal opportunity policy widely known.

• Encourage parents to follow us on social media and to share our page.

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE OF CHILDREN, PARENTS AND STAFF PROCEDURE

Staff will park on the cricket club car park.  Children will arrive at the nursery or out-of-school club with a parent or caregiver and will be marked present in the register before left. 

Nursery and Out of School Club children will access the building via the main door from the cricket club, at both the beginning and end of sessions. The time of arrival is recorded on the register.

The children will be greeted and welcomed by the staff. Parents and caregivers are welcome to speak to staff before and after sessions and are always welcome to have a look at what we are doing.

Parents and caregivers will wait outside to collect their children after nursery. A member of staff will see each child out individually to ensure that they are collected by an agreed-upon adult.

Out-of-school club children will be collected by parents ringing the bell at the main entrance. 

Staff will not let a child leave the nursery or out-of-school club with an unknown adult unless clear written notification has been given by a parent or caregiver or the password system is used.

Any messages received about the alteration of arrangements for the collection of children will be recorded at the bottom of the register for that particular day. The time of departure is  recorded on the register.

All children are walked to school and line up while a member of Balshaw Lane staff checks and signs for each child

After-school collection procedure

At least two members of staff will collect the children at the appointed times.

Reception Children are brought from their classrooms by the TA and delivered to the hall, where the staff are waiting to sign for them. Junior children make their own way to the hall and staff sign them in.

The register will be taken. The children will be escorted across to the club. On arrival at the club, the register is checked again.

VISITORS POLICY AND PROCEDURE.

Visitors are welcomed, but the security of our children is our over-riding priority. We try to maintain a balance between ensuring that our setting is warm and welcoming and also a safe, secure, homely environment 

• We require all visitors to sign in and out in the Visitors Book. 

• Prospective families are asked to bring ID on their first visit to Nursery. 

• Visitors will be requested to verify their identity for example by showing identity/ badges or using a password. 

• No visitor will be left alone with children. 

• A member of staff will accompany all visitors. 

People who are welcome to visit  :-Ofsted /Teacher team, E.Y.D.C.P development workers, Inclusion officers, college tutors, Community workers- health visitors, speech therapist etc., topic based visitors e.g. dentist, doctor, fire service, police etc., parents. 

 All Contractors will be asked to visit out of setting hours, if possible. 

Visitor’s book kept on shelving unit by the main door. 

 Reviewed 04/10/24 

OUTINGS PROCEDURE

Children may be taken away from the nursery and out of school club premises on an outing.  Risk assessments will be carried out and documented for each route, and these will be reviewed before every outing. A copy will be kept within the operational plan, in the separate risk assessment file and also by the outings bag. Express written permission to take children on outings is sought from parents on admission. Children will only ever be taken out if this is granted. On such occasions, adult-to-child ratios will always be upheld.

• Four two-year-olds per one adult

• Eight three or four-year-olds per one adult

• One adult for every 8 children over 5

Wherever possible, this ratio will be increased.

A qualified first-aider will always be present on any nursery and out-of-school club outings.  Emergency contact numbers for all the children and staff will be taken on outings, along with a mobile phone and a first aid kit. The Mobile phone must be checked for charge and credit before any outing. These will be stored in a designated excursion bag.  The nursery and out of school club owner must always be informed of any outings that are planned beforehand.

As a safety precaution, children will be given a label/badge to wear showing the name and telephone number of the nursery or out-of-school club. This will not identify the children in any way.

The expected time of arrival will be recorded on the daily register.

If the nursery party does not arrive home at the designated time, the acting leader will be contacted by mobile phone. If the out-of-school club party is running late, the leader will ring to inform parents.

If no contact can be made

Where possible, an additional member of staff will track down the party

Emergency services will be contacted

If all children are on the outing, The mobile phone number, planned route, and estimated time of return will be noted on the front door.

A separate risk assessment review folder on the shelving unit is checked and signed before each outing

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES POLICY

This policy outlines the commitment of the staff, children and management of YARROW NURSERY to ensure that equality of opportunity is available to all members of the community.  For our setting this means not simply treating everybody the same but understanding and tackling the barriers which could lead to unequal outcomes for different groups of children in the setting, whilst celebrating and valuing the achievements and strengths of all members of the settings community. 

These include; 

• Children 

• Staff 

• Parents/carers 

• The management bodies 

• Multi agency staff linked to the setting 

• Visitors to the setting 

• Volunteers and students on placement 

• Administrative staff 

The setting context 

At YARROW NURSERY we provide information in clear, concise language, weather in written or spoken form.  We base our admissions policy on a fair system; we do not discriminate against a child or their family, or prevent entry to our setting on the basis of colour, ethnicity, religion or social background, such as being a member of the travelling community or asylum seeker. 

We do not discriminate against a child with a disability or refuse a child entry to our setting because of a disability. 

We are unprejudiced to diversity in individuals both children and adults, and therefore all types of persons may participate in our setting, we make sure that all parents/carers are aware of our equal opportunities policy and equality policy. 

Statement of principles 

At YARROW NURSERY we believe that equality at our setting should permeate all aspects of setting life and is the responsibility of every member of the setting and wider community. Every member of the setting community should feel safe, secure, valued and of equal worth. 

We are committed to the EYFS principles and understand that equality is the overall key principle for treating all people fairly and creating a society in which everyone has the opportunity to fulfil their potential- irrespective of their gender, ethnicity, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age or any other recognised area of discrimination. 

We are committed to providing a working environment free from discrimination, bullying, harassment and victimisation.  We aim to recruit an appropriately qualified workforce and establish a governing body/advisory board that is representative of all sections of the community in order to respond to the diverse needs of our population. 

We aim to provide all our service users with the opportunity to succeed, and to reach the highest level of achievement.  The progress of children will be monitored by the protected characteristics and we will use this data to support children, raise standards and ensure inclusive services. 

Roles and Responsibilities 

• Our Owners/directors will ensure that the setting complies with statutory requirements in respects of this policy 

• Owners/Directors are responsible for the implementation of this policy and will ensure that all staff are aware of their responsibilities, that they are given the necessary training and support. 

• The ENCO has day to day responsibilities for co-ordinating the implementation of this policy. The YARROW NURSERY ENCO is Wendy Brooks 

• Our staff will promote an inclusive and collaborative ethos in the setting, challenge inappropriate language and behaviour, respond appropriately to incidents of discrimination and harassment, ensure appropriate support for children with additional needs and maintain a good level of awareness equalities issues. 

• All members of the setting have a responsibility to treat each other and staff with respect, to feel valued, and to speak out if they witness or are subject to any inappropriate language or behaviour. 

• We will take steps to ensure all visitors to the setting adhere to our commitment to equality. 

Monitoring and Review 

YARROW NURSERY is an inclusive setting, working towards greater equality in the whole setting community.  We deliver the EYFS statutory framework and development matters to enhance self-esteem of all those it serves and to provide a learning environment in which each individual is encouraged to fulfil his or her potential. 

We collect and analyse a range of equality information for our children; 

• Progress and Attainment data (i.e. tracking tool- formative and summative, wellbeing and involvement data (TAPESTRY)) 

• Child progress meetings (supervisions) between key person and Managers. 

• Attendance data 

• Complaints made to Ofsted 

• Complaints of bullying/harassment and analysis of the accident/injuries records. 

• Annual parental questionnaires and parents ongoing verbal comments. 

We track children’s learning as they progress through the setting and as part of this process we monitor different groups, to ensure that all groups of children are making the best possible progress.  We use this information to adjust future teaching and learning plans, as necessary. 

Resources are available to support groups of children where the information suggests that progress is not as good as it should be.  The operational manager sees regular updates on children’s progress throughout the seven areas of learning. 

Due regard is given to the promotion of equality in the setting improvement plan. 

Publicising the policy 

This policy will be made available in the following areas; - 

• Setting website 

• Paper copy in the settings ‘Policy File’ 

• Induction process of new staff/Volunteers 

Annual review of progress 

The ENCO will report on any aspects of ethnicity, disability and gender.  This will also include progress to improve access for disabled children, which incorporates access to the curriculum, physical access and access to information where appropriate.  The policy will be reviewed don an annual basis or earlier if deemed necessary. 

RACE EQUALITY POLICY

Yarrow Nursery and Out of School Club is a full day care setting meeting the needs of children from two to eleven.

We at Yarrow take great care to treat each individual as a person in their own right, with equal rights and responsibilities to any other individual, whether they are adult or child.

The Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000 stated that all listed public authorities must aim to:

• eliminate unlawful racial discrimination

• promote equality of opportunity

• promote good relations between people of different racial groups

It will be the responsibility of Equalities Champion Wendy Brooks to ensure the implementation and monitoring of this policy. We expect all staff, parents, caregivers, and children to support this work. It will be the responsibility of the manager to report to the owner to ensure that this policy is implemented successfully.

The setting will fulfil its commitment to race equality by

Eliminating racism/racial harassment

The setting will fulfill its commitment to race equality by dealing firmly, sensitively, consistently, and effectively with racist incidents, harassment, and bullying.

Incidents could take the form of verbal or physical abuse.

Incidents can occur against a child, parent, visitor, or member of staff.

The setting will ensure that such incidents are investigated and recorded. This information will be made available to officers from the LEA.

Valuing diversity in Families/Ensuring consultation

There will be a consultation with families using the setting and the community.

Information from the setting is available in a variety of formats (i.e., parents are verbally informed as well as through letters and e-mails). If written information is required in a different format or language, then every effort will be made to meet these needs.

Through admissions/progress

There will be a fair admissions procedure based on advertisements and wide publicity based upon the needs of the community.

The setting will fulfill its commitment to race equality by collecting data on each child’s admission and using this to inform how representative of the community the setting is.

It is helpful for parents to provide ethnic monitoring to improve service, but it is not compulsory.

Employment

Fair criteria will be used during the advertising, recruitment, selection, interviewing, appointment, and induction processes.

Professional development of all staff

There will be opportunities for all staff to attend training sessions on issues of cultural diversity and race equality.

It will be the responsibility of the Equalities Champion to attend courses and cascade training, develop an understanding of inclusive practice in the setting, implement audits and policies, and monitor and evaluate the implementation of policies.

Implementing an inclusive curriculum (EYFS)

The setting will provide access to the curriculum for all children. We will:-

• Build self-esteem in children to know they matter.

• Have high expectations of all children.

• Promote positive attitudes toward diversity, helping children understand that some remarks toward others are not acceptable.

• Purchase resources to reflect a range of cultural backgrounds and challenge stereotypes.

• Create an environment to make all children feel valued, involving parents fully in the education of their child.

• Children with English as an additional language will be supported in order to access the curriculum.

Monitoring/Evaluation

This policy will be made available to all parents and caregivers and will be monitored in staff meetings. This policy will be reviewed annually by Equalities Champion Wendy Brooks and all other staff members.

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICINES

Occasions do arise from time to time when children are well enough to attend the nursery and out-of-school club, but have to take medicines.  If medicine has to be taken, it should be taken before and after sessions, to reduce the need to bring the medicine into the setting.  If a child is on medication that needs to be administered within normal session hours, policies and procedures must be followed.

 Please note that no medicine that contains aspirin can be administered at the setting, unless this has been prescribed by a Doctor.  If your child has a recurring medical problem, such as asthma, it is essential that the setting managers be consulted before any arrangements are made for the in-setting treatment of such children. In such cases, prior written information will be obtained from the parent, including clear instructions about the dosage and administration of the medication and permission for a member to follow the instructions.  Forms are available from the office.

In some cases, individual care plans are necessary. These are shared with all staff and are displayed clearly in the office area.

If specific training were needed, e.g., the administration of EpiPens, then this would be sought for each individual child. Medicines will be stored in accordance with product instructions and in the original container in which they were dispensed. This should include the prescriber’s instructions for administration.

Administration of medicine: This will first be recorded on a parent's sheet with directions for staff. When actually administering, this will be recorded in the administration of medicine book, and it will be signed and dated by an overseeing practitioner and by the parent or caregiver on the collection of the child.  The setting will ensure that the first aid equipment is kept clean, replenished, and replaced as necessary.  Sterile items will be kept sealed in their packages until needed.  The first aid box is stored out of reach of the children.  The equipment is stored in the original labelled container.  We will endeavour to ensure that there will always be on the premises at least one qualified first aider trained to administer first aid to the children.  A record of the first aid treatment administered will be kept and shared with parents.

Staff training

12-hour pediatric first aid certificates are held by most staff members. At least 1 qualified first-aider will be on shift in nursery and Out of school club each session.          

SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS POLICY 

The setting’s special educational needs co-coordinators (SENco) is WENDY BROOKS 

The aims and objectives of our special educational needs (SEN) policy are to identify early any difficulties a child may have, and on offering an appropriate learning environment in which we provide a range of differentiated activities to meet all individual needs.  We aim to develop a partnership with parents and will always consult with parents if we feel a child is having difficulties.  A child’s progress will be observed, monitored and recorded as appropriate.  If a child is placed on the SEN record, staff will liaise closely with the SENco on setting appropriate targets.  We will liaise with other professionals to ensure we are offering effective provisions for children with special educational needs.  The setting will welcome children with special educational needs and disabilities and will make reasonable adjustments.   

The Senco’s role is to: 

• Ensure the objectives of the SEN policy are reflected in the practice of our setting. 

• Ensure that staff are familiar with procedures of observation and assessment which would highlight an early indication of any difficulties, and to use their assessments to plan and target set. 

• Ensure the SEN record is up to date. 

• Promote effective relationships with parents of children with SEN. 

• Liaise with other professionals/agencies. 

• Seek staff training in relation to SEN when appropriate. 

The admissions arrangements for children with SEN are: 

• We aim to provide appropriate developmental learning opportunities for all children, as such, children with special needs are welcomed to our setting if our provision is appropriate or if it can be modified to make it accessible and appropriate for the child 

Resources we provide for children with SEN: 

• Staff members are deployed within each session to work with children as appropriate, either on a group or individual basis. 

• We provide a range of differentiated resources to promote early language and literacy skills, e.g. tactile books, pop up books, story rhymes tapes etc…) 

Identification and assessment of children with SEN: 

• We have regard for the code of practice in the identification and assessment of SEN. 

• We have adopted the wave system and the practice of our setting is described through these waves. 

Wave 1  

In addition to the formal checks, the staff will monitor and review the progress and development of all children throughout the setting. This is done by termly summative assessments made on each child, online record of achievements, daily focused activities and carpet time sessions. 

Wave 2  

When a child in the nursery setting appears to be behind expected levels and the child’s progress gives cause for concern the child’s keyworker and Senco Officer will consider all the information about the child’s learning and development from within and beyond the setting , from keyworker observations and more  detailed assessments of the child’s needs. If the setting still has concerns about a child the keyworker/Senco officer would speak to the parents regarding their concerns and obtain written permission from the parents/guardian to seek advice for involvement from outside professionals. 

Wave 3 

Where it is decided to provide SEN support for an individual child in conjunction with the parents we will take advice from the Local Education Authority and assessment team with regards to a formal assessment and procedures relating to the possibility of a child having a statement of SEN. The keyworker /Senco Officer will put in place individual mapping, T.L.P s and apply for AIS funding. Specialist input will be requested when necessary. 

Wellcomm 

Wellcomm is a complete Speech and Language toolkit that is designed to assess children’s Speech and Language skills. The assessment is recommended to be done every term or until the child score Green rating in their correct age band. The Wellcomm toolkit is designed from birth to 6 years so is used in Nursery, Reception and Year one. Wellcomm is an assessment which we complete one to one with the nursery children , each assessment takes on average 10-20 minutes per child and is completed in a quiet environment .Once a child is assessed they are given a Green, Amber or Red rating. 

If your child is given a Green rating they have been assessed at the correct age for their assessment, no targeted support is required. 

If your child is assessed as Amber rating your child would require some intervention for a short period of time, this will be instigated by the nursery setting and your child’s key worker. 

If your child is assessed as Red rating, your child my need external support or targeted support for an extended period of time. 

If you child has a Red scoring the SENco Officer will always speak to the child’s parents/careers where next steps will be decided and any action plan will be discussed. 

The results from Wellcomm will be passed on to your child’s chosen Primary School alongside their transition document. 

Transition 

The keyworker/SENco officer will support planning and prepare for transition before the child moves into another setting or school. To support the transition, information will be shared by the Nursery Setting with the receiving setting or school. The Nursery Setting will discuss with the parents that information on their child will be shared as part of the planning process. 

We plan our Early Years curriculum with regard to the EYFS to include children with SEN as follows: 

• By planning differentiated learning targets. 

• By assessing and monitoring individual progress in relation to the curriculum. 

• By teaching through a range of learning styles and techniques to ensure children with differing needs can access the curriculum. 

Our learning environment provides the following opportunities for all children to be included in the setting as a whole: 

• The setting takes heed of the disability discrimination act (DDA) and recognizes that disability does not necessarily mean SEN difficulties. 

• 0-25 years- Special Educational Needs and Disability Code of Practice. 

• The children and families Act 2014 

• Equality Act 2010 

• SEN ( personal budget) regulations 2014 

• Special Educational Needs and disability. 

• None of our furniture is fixed so we are able to make physical changes to our environment to ensure all children can be included in activities.  We have differentiated play equipment and learning activities for the children to draw on both inside and out. 

Our SEN policy will be reviewed annually. 

Reviewed on: Sep 24 

SICK CHILDREN POLICY AND PROCEDURE FOLLOWING ACCIDENTS

Parents are asked to keep their children at home if they have any infection, and to inform the setting as to the nature of the infection.  If the manager has reason to believe that this is a notifiable disease, then Ofsted will be informed (0300 1231231). COVID-19 Protocol will be followed as the guidance advises at that point in time. This will allow the setting to inform other parents as necessary and to make careful observations of any child who seems unwell.  Parents are asked not to bring into the setting any child who has been vomiting or having diarrhoea until at least 48 hours have elapsed since the last attack. Cuts or open sores, whether on adults or children, will be covered with a dressing. We do have members of staff who are qualified to give first aid for minor accidents.

When children are taken ill or have an accident in the setting, every attempt is made to locate and inform their parents immediately. If children are sent home due to illness, a record will be made on the daily register. Any accidents will be recorded on an accident form that day. This will be shared with parents/carers and their signatures will be requested. 

A separate accident book for adults must be completed following any accidents that occur to adults whilst on the setting's premises. If an accident happens at the setting to either an adult or a child during open times that leads to hospitalization for 24 hours or more or leads to an adult/child being absent from the setting for 3 days or more, this must be reported to RIDDOR using the forms available. In such cases, Ofsted must also be informed within 14 days of the incident occurring.  The registered provider will notify the local child protection agencies ( see LA child protection policy and procedure file for contact details) of any serious accident or injury to, or the death of, any child whilst in their care and will act on any advice given. 

The setting owner will be informed of any serious injuries recorded in either accident book that day.  It is important that the setting have the telephone number of the parents in case they need to be contacted.  Parents should notify the setting if there are any medical details of children which should be known if emergency treatment has to be given, e.g. allergy to penicillin.  In an emergency, 999 would be called, and parents or next of kin for adults would be contacted as soon as possible. Where an accident or sick child leads to a member of staff leaving the premises, a further adult must be contacted to work as soon as possible.

A list of suitable people and their contact information is available in the operational plan.

BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT POLICY

We believe that children and adults flourish best in an ordered environment in which everyone knows what is expected of them and the children are free to develop their play and learning without fear of being hurt or hindered by anyone else.  We aim to work toward a situation in which children can develop self-discipline and self-esteem in an atmosphere of mutual respect and encouragement. In order to achieve this:

All adults will try to provide a positive model for the children with regard to friendliness, care, and courtesy and will offer strategies for handling any conflict.

All adults in the setting will ensure the behaviour is managed consistently so that the children have the security of knowing what to expect.

Adults in the setting will praise and endorse desirable behaviour such as kindness and willingness to share.

We will take positive steps to avoid a situation in which children receive adult attention only in return for undesirable behaviour.

Bullying is unacceptable in this setting. All staff will encourage children to tell if they are bullied or if they see bullying take place.  This will be addressed through our personal, social, and emotional development when we discuss kind and unkind behaviour. All staff will act on the information that is given to them. They will talk through the issues with the children

involved, and parents will be informed of all actions taken.

 When children behave in unacceptable ways

They will be given one-to-one support in seeing what was wrong and how to act more appropriately.  Children and adults will work through the six steps to conflict resolution, this may be accompanied by a period of ‘time out’ for one or two minutes, whilst discussions take place, in order to come to a satisfactory conclusion for the child.

Children will not be left unattended.

Physical punishment or contact of any kind, such as smacking, shaking, or pushing, will neither be used nor threatened.

Techniques intended to single out and humiliate individual children will not be used.

Physical restraint, such as holding, will be used only to prevent physical injury to children or adults and/or serious damage to property.  Any such event, where physical intervention is used to manage a child’s behaviour, will be recorded in the incident book, and parents/carers will be informed the same day.

Adults will not shout or raise their voices in a threatening way.

In any case of misbehaviour, it will always be made clear to the child or children that it is the behaviour and not the child that is unwelcome.

Recurring problems will be tackled by the whole setting, using objective observation records to establish an understanding of the cause.

HEALTHY EATING POLICY

At the Yarrow Nursery and Out of School Club, we promote healthy eating. Children are encouraged to help themselves to fresh drinking water, which is permanently available.  Breakfast is available for children attending before 9 a.m.; this consists of cereal (high sugar/salt varieties are avoided) and/or wholemeal toast and/or other bread products. A mid-morning snack is provided and consists of fresh milk or water, whole-meal toast, and an apple.

Children bring their own packed lunches from home to eat at lunchtime. We encourage parents to pack healthy lunch boxes and provide advice in our brochure on the preparation and storage of foods. A fridge is available to refrigerate lunch box items. 

The registered provider will notify Ofsted, 03001231231, of any food poisoning affecting two or more children, looked after on the premises within 14 days of the incident occurring. 

Parents are advised through the brochure and newsletters, to be aware of food allergies when considering the content of lunch boxes, with particular reference to eggs and nuts. We strive to be a nut-free environment. Such foods should be avoided as they could pose potential risks to other children, as allergies can remain undetected.  Adults use meal and snack times as an extra opportunity to discuss healthy eating, discussing the different foods that the children bring with them and talking about the benefits of eating a variety of produce.

A mid-afternoon snack is provided for the children. This again consists of milk or water, and a wide variety of fruit and vegetables are offered at this time. The registered provider will notify Ofsted on 03001231231 of any food poisoning affecting 2 or more children looked after on the premises within 14 days of the incident occurring.

A light snack is available for children attending after school, the content is varied, and children are encouraged to be involved in the planning of menus, with our healthy eating agenda kept in mind at all times.

In line with our healthy eating policy, we do not encourage parents to bring in cakes or sweet treats for their children’s birthdays.  Each child’s birthday will be acknowledged and celebrated within a session, unless parents/carers expressly state that they do not want this to happen.

Food hygiene certificates held by: Joanne McManus, Wendy Brooks, Frances Worcester, Michelle Peet, Sharon Locke, Fiona Joy, Louise Turner

Oral Health

Oral health will be promoted at Yarrow Nursery and will be included in the curriculum; specific sessions will be allocated towards the teaching of good oral health via books, rhymes, puppets, and staff.

Further information is available in the operational plan within the safeguarding and welfare requirements for health, which includes information about:

• Communicable diseases

• Slapped cheek

• Febrile convulsions

• Hand, foot and mouth disease

• Swine flu

• Norovirus

• Ebola

Epi pen administration

Administration of medication from Ofsted as contact details for the local health protection unit for infectious diseases.

Content list of fully stocked first aid box

RIDDOR information

Notification form to use when informing local child protection agencies of Notifiable accidents and injuries

Safer food, Better Business for caterer’s food safety and training information kept in the main office on the shelving unit.

CONFLICT MEDIATION STRATEGY

Approach calmly, stopping any hurtful actions.  The adult is creating a ‘safe opening’ for discussion.

Acknowledge children’s feelings. The adult can often defuse a tense situation by this acknowledgement and acceptance of children’s feelings.

Gather information. The adult finds out the details of the dispute from each child’s point of view.

Restate the problem.  The adult repeats or reframes what the children have said, ensuring that each point of view has been understood.

Ask for ideas for solutions.  The adult encourages the children to be in charge of the outcome and find a collaborative solution to the problem.

Follow-up support.  The adult affirms the children’s accomplishments as problem solvers and ensures that the problem has really been resolved through careful and discreet supervision.

Further information is available in the operational plan within the safeguarding and welfare requirements for managing behaviour, this includes information about bullying in the early years.

FIRE SAFETY AND EVACUATION PROCEDURE

In the event of a fire

The whistle will be hung on the notice board in the office, and beside the door in the lodge.  Emergency contact details for all children and staff will be kept in the filing cabinet in the office.

 If a fire is detected in either room, the whistle will be blown to attract the attention of all adults and children in both buildings.  Please note, the person responsible must ensure the main building and the lodge are alerted.

There are 3 exits from the main building, the internal door, which is reached via a second internal locked door, the new main nursery door; and a back door leading to the school playing field. The safest exit will be identified by the adults present, and children will be safely escorted from the building. Children will be escorted to the black railings from the front of the building via the front door, or out of the back door onto the school field. The lodge has 2 fire exits; double doors directly out onto the playground or the single door leading to the Nursery main door. In an absolute emergency, all the windows in the lodge are fully opened.

The fire brigade will be rung by the first member of staff to leave the building, where possible, taking the contacts box with emergency contact numbers with them and the daily register/staff register/visitors log.

The remaining members of staff will ensure the safe eviction of the children.

The last adult in the building will check the ladies' and gents, accessible toilets, and the lodge to ensure that the building is empty.

Evacuation

Door 1-Nursery Internal door

Children will evacuate through the nursery side gate, and assemble near the railings on the path towards the cricket club

Door 2- Nursery side door

Children will walk over the school field and assemble on the other side of the railings on the path leading to Cricket Club

Door 3 - Main Nursery Door

Children will exit through the nursery door, through the main gate entrance, and line up against the black railings down by the cricket club.

Door 4/5- Lodge door/double doors-Children will leave via double black gates or nursery side gate AS ONE GROUP and assemble near the railings.

IF CHILDREN ARE OUT ON THE SCHOOL PLAYGROUND

A member of staff will alert the staff and children on the playground, and the group will come around to join the group if it is safe to do so; if not, communication will be kept via walkie-talkies until it is safe to regroup.

Fire drills will take place each half-term on different days and at different times to account for the fact that not all children are present at the setting each day. Drills will be recorded in the fire practice book. Fire extinguishers are checked annually.

 Information to be recorded:

• Date

• Time and duration of practice

• Number of children

• Number of adults

• Exit used

• Any problems encountered and how they were resolved

The children will assemble in a line at the far end of the car park, and a head count will take place.

FIRE INSTRUCTIONS

Detailed fire and emergency instructions are displayed on the wall within the main room and in the lodge. You must familiarise yourself fully with these instructions.

FIRE PRECAUTIONS

A fire blanket is located in the kitchen.

TOILETING AND NAPPY CHANGING PROCEDURE.

Nappy changing time and toilet training will be valued as an opportunity for adults to positively interact with the children on a one-to-one basis whereby each has the others undivided attention.  Where possible it will be the child’s key person who will change his/her nappy and support toilet training.  Nappies will be changed as and when necessary, throughout the day following this procedure. 

• Wipe mat with antibacterial spray 

• Adult wash hands 

• Get items ready from children’s own bag; nappy and wipes. From the stock; nappy sack, gloves and apron. 

• Put on gloves and apron 

• Change nappy 

• Wipe mat with disinfectant wipe 

• Put used nappy into designated bin, in the main bathroom. 

• Adult and child wash hands together

Where a parent has asked for any creams to be put on bottoms for Nappy rash etc. it should be written consent on a medicine form and treated as such staff can ask for a member of staff to witness the application if they wish to. 

Parents should be advised when this has been done and the book signed. 

Any worries during a Nappy Change or Toileting procedure should be raised with a Manger immediately.  

Reviewed 04/10/24 

SETTLING IN PROCEDURE

Nursery

When parents express an interest in the nursery, they are invited to come and look around with their child. Once a place has been confirmed, we advise parents to talk to their child about the routines of the day, which will be evident during the visit, and show them around with a manager. If sessions aren’t available, the child’s name will be placed on a list, and parents will be contacted as soon as sessions become available. If a place is booked in advance for the following year, families will be contacted by phone or email close to the expected starting date.

Parents are asked to complete an ‘All about me’ on the Tapestry app and also to complete a ‘What to expect when’ booklet to enable staff to get to know the children better and to accommodate their likes and interests wherever possible.   This will include information that will support the child’s learning and development journey in the setting by providing starting points for staff.  Parents are advised to arrive early for the first few sessions to ensure a calm, quiet start to the day, rather than coming into a full, busy room. Parents are encouraged to arrive early at the end of the first few sessions so that their child leaves first. This ensures the child understands that their parents will be there after the story. Parents are welcome to ring during sessions to monitor how their child is settling. A key member of staff will be available to talk with parents at the beginning and end of each session.

Out of School Club

Once a place is confirmed, members of staff will support each new child as they settle in with us to ensure that they are comfortable and familiar with the routines and expectations and that they have friends to play with.  Parents are welcome to call during sessions to monitor how their child is settling. Members of the staff will be available to talk with parents at the end of each session.

KEY PERSON POLICY

At Yarrow Nursery and Out of School Club, all the children are cared for by all members of staff, one practitioner (a "key person") will be responsible for a number of children in his/her key worker group.

The key person’s role is to

• Develop a good, positive relationship with the child and the parents, enabling quality “two-way” communication.

• Help to settle the child upon entry to the setting during the induction period.

• Carry out observations and monitor progress.

• Maintain Records of Achievements, each child’s personal learning journey. Which is done via an online app called TAPESTRY.

• Liaise with other providers and share records.

• Liaise with parents regularly and share records.

All key persons are available at any time, mostly on the days on which the children in his/her group are in attendance.

In the event that the key person is not present during the session, the child will have a co-key person designated. Mrs. Brooks, the room leader, is assigned to all children in every session.

Through the key person, parents can share progress, concerns, news, and achievements.  Parents can also speak to any other members of the staff team, and messages will be conveyed to the key person.

Because of the continuous provision, children are encouraged to speak to any of the experienced members of staff.

Yarrow Nursery, Out of School Club.

For all reception-age children, Mrs Wendy Brooks and Mrs Joanne McManus will take on the role of the key person, in the event that neither one of these members of staff is available, a member of staff on duty will take over the role as necessary. 

SEVERE WEATHER PROCEDURE

As the safety of the children and staff at our setting is paramount, in cases of severe weather, specific measures may need to be taken.

During opening times, children and staff will be kept indoors, and if conditions worsen and safety is compromised, parents will be contacted, and the setting will close. 

If weather conditions are such that our setting is unable to open, every effort will be made to contact parents before sessions. An update will be added to the website, and a new status will be added to our Facebook and Instagram profiles.

Examples of severe weather conditions 

• Very high winds

• Storms

• Heavy snow

• Blizzards

• Heavy rain/flooding

• Heatwave

Further information is available in the operational plan within the safeguarding and welfare requirements for safety and suitability of premises, environment, and equipment, this includes information about:

Risk assessments

RIDDOR

Poisonous plants

SOCIAL NETWORKING AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY

In order to safeguard children, adults and our organization, and reduce the risk of unfounded and malicious allegations being made which relate to the use of technology, staff are to follow the following policy: -

Staff are asked to use social networking sites with caution and responsibility, remembering that the nature of their work in nurseries places them in a position of trust. This dictates that their behaviour inside and outside of work will be subject to scrutiny.

If using sites, it is unacceptable for staff to include any comments about the workplace, events that take place there, visitors, or individuals within it. They should not include any photographs or images of children. It is unacceptable for staff members to befriend parents or to send text messages to parents or children from their personal devices.

Workplace internet access must not be used for personal reasons during working hours, including lunch breaks

Any member of staff with any concerns about negative online behaviour should bring the matter to the immediate attention of a senior manager.

Social networking sites such as Twitter, Facebook, Flickr, and Instagram allow users to be incredibly creative, keep in touch with their friends, and express themselves using a whole range of different media and applications, such as video, photos, music, and chat. While social networking has many positive uses, it is important to recognise that there are also potential risks, including cyberbullying and the misuse of personal information.  At work, you must not access social networking sites or the Internet using nursery computers/laptops.

If you access social networking sites from your smartphone (see rules regarding the use of mobile phones) you must consider the following -

You should select a suitable profile photo. Photos can easily be copied, changed, and shared and can potentially stay online forever.

Ask yourself, “Would I want a future employer to see this photo?  "What would a family whose child attends or could attend the setting think of me looking after their child?” or “Am I acting responsibly?”

You should think before you post. What starts as a joke or gossip can quickly escalate to cause real pain.

Blogging on social networking sites and divulging any information or comments regarding the workplace, colleagues, or clients associated with the school/club or nursery. This will be regarded as a breach of confidentiality and will be classified as gross misconduct.

Allowing your interaction on any website or blog to damage your working relationship with other work colleagues and/or clients /or groups/clubs associated with the company

 Photographs and Images

Consent will always be gained from parents before any photographs of their children are taken or used for educational publications or training purposes. (This will be included on the child’s admission form) All parents will be asked to sign an agreement which states that photographs and information shared electronically from the setting will not be uploaded by them onto any other social media site.

Mobile phones

Mobile phones are to be kept in handbags in the designated staff area during working hours. Use is limited to lunch breaks. They may be taken into the lodge at lunchtime, times, providing NO CHILDREN ARE USING THE BUILDING AT THIS TIME.

If a member of staff or a student needs to make an urgent phone call, they may do so using the setting phone with permission from the manager.

The nursery phone number can be given as an emergency contact. We request that parents will not use mobiles during drop off and pick up periods. Anyone found using a mobile phone within the nursery will be asked to switch it off.

Any member of staff/student or volunteer wearing a smartwatch or equivalent will be expected to have settings allowing cameras and messages to be deactivated whilst in session or on duty. Anyone seen to be using these devices while with the children will be asked to remove them and leave them with the manager until their shift is over.  

PANDEMICS AND NOTIFIABLE DISEASES POLICY AND PROCEDURE

In cases of pandemics, such as swine flu and the Coronavirus (Covid-19) the health protection agency will be contacted at 01257 246450 or 0844 225 1295 and the advice received will always be followed.

The setting will remain open where possible and where it is safe to do so.

In situations where staff are absent through illness and, as a result, the staff/child ratios are compromised, the following procedures will be followed.

Parents will be contacted and asked to keep their children at home.

A member of staff will be responsible for ringing round initially and then be responsible for meeting parents at the gate.

We would endeavour to continue operating with reduced numbers where possible. If only one member of staff was available to work, then the setting would close. Parents would not be expected to pay for missed sessions during a close down period, in situations where the Health Protection Agency have instructed the setting the close in order to minimise the spread of a notifiable/infectious disease.

There are no coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions in the UK.

If you have COVID-19, you should try to stay at home.

Most people cannot get free COVID-19 tests. You can buy tests in shops, but you cannot report the results to the NHS.

You can get vaccinated against COVID-19 through the NHS.

Furthermore, you need to show a negative COVID-19 test if you are travelling to England from mainland China. You do not need to take a test when you arrive in the UK from any other country. You should check travel advice for any country you are travelling t

 LATE PAYMENT POLICY

You are encouraged to talk to Mrs McManus immediately if you think you are going to have difficulties paying your invoice. The sooner we hear from you, the easier it is to find a solution. Please contact us as soon as possible: this is in everyone’s interest.

In the event that payments are not received, the management of Yarrow Nursery Ltd. will engage in the following procedure to secure payment.

Stage 1

A reminder invoice will be issued with a pay-by date as soon as possible, followed by a final reminder invoice if the payment is not made by the date quoted on the reminder invoice.

A late payment fee of £10 will be added to the amount due for each week that the payment is missed.

Stage 2

If the full amount is not received by the date given on the final reminder, then legal action will be taken without further notice to recover fees, including legal costs and late payment charges. At this stage, the child’s place at Yarrow Nursery Ltd, or the Yarrow Nursery Out Of School Club will be withdrawn until such time that the account has been cleared. Nursery hours will only be withdrawn over the allotted 15/30 funded hours per week.

OUT OF SCHOOL CLUB TECHNOLOGY

In the out-of-school club, children have access to the internet via gaming consoles, PCs and tablet devices. All of these devices have parental safety controls installed to ensure that the children’s access is restricted. This is so that we can be sure that we are safeguarding all the children in the setting by monitoring the content viewed. We can only do this effectively on our own devices.

We have games that are accessed on various game consoles, some of which are recommended for children aged 7+ or 8+. No games recommended for children over the age of 9 will be used in the setting. 

We occasionally watch films on our devices. Some of these have a PG rating. No films or programs with a rating of 12 or higher will be viewed in this setting. No mobile phones belonging to the children are permitted in the setting.

I give my permission for children to:

Access the settings PCs, tablets and gaming consoles

Access games up to and including those recommended for ages 7+

Watch films and programmes up to and including those rated at PG

 Name of parent/carer with parental

responsibility………

Signature of parent/carer with parental responsibility………

 Date………

PROMOTING BRITISH VALUES IN YARROW NURSERY AND OUT OF SCHOOL CLUB

At Yarrow Nursery and the out-of-school club, we value all of our children and families. We promote mutual respect and are an inclusive environment. We encourage children to be independent learners so that they can make their own choices and develop strong relationships and friendships with lots of people. Likewise, we expect children to join in, try their best, and follow our simple rules. All of these things are the foundations for growing into good citizens and promoting the ‘British Values’ of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance. These values are reinforced on a regular basis and in the following ways in our setting:

Democracy

• We listen to children’s and parent's voices.

• Parent and children’s questionnaires are completed annually.

• We encourage children and parents to share ideas and experiences.

• Children’s ideas and interests are followed.

• Sharing resources.

Individual Liberty

• Within the setting, children are actively encouraged to make choices, knowing that they are in a safe and supportive environment.

• Children are encouraged to know, understand, and exercise their rights and personal freedom.

• Children can spend most of the session choosing their own activities.

• Children have the choice of playing inside or outside during the session.

• Children can choose if they want a snack.

• We celebrate children’s individual interests and incorporate them into our daily routines.

Mutual Respect

• We understand that all children are different, and they all develop at different rates and have different needs.

• We work hard to build relationships with all of our families.

• We celebrate special occasions that are important to our families and the wider world.

 Tolerance for those of different faiths and beliefs

• Children have the opportunity to dress up in clothes and try different foods from other cultures, and we encourage parents and caregivers to participate in and support our multicultural events.

• We have positive images reflecting diversity.

• We promote respect and tolerance for all different faiths, cultures, and languages.

• We ensure we offer children exposure to a wide range of cultures during their time with us.

• Staff will actively challenge any pupils, staff or parents expressing opinions contrary to British Values, including extremist views or racism