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HunnyPot Nursery Policies |
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The following policies are included in this document: Admissions Behaviour Management Biting Bullying Child Protection Complaints Confidentiality Diet Enrolment for the child Equal Opportunities Health and Hygiene Parental Involvement Reporting Incidents within the Nursery Safety Selecting Play Equipment and Toys Settling in Nursery/ pre-school Special Needs Staff Induction Staffing and Employment Student Induction Policy Student Placements Data Protection
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All policies are formally adopted, implemented and regularly reviewed by the HunnyPot Management Team. Reading of these policies is required by all new staff during their Induction Phase. All policies are available to view for parents, and copies can be supplied and signed out on request. The latest review of policies was held on: 20 May 2003 and was attended by: Andy, Sonia, Emma D
Admissions PolicyIt is our intention to make our nursery/ nursery/ pre-school 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/ nursery/ pre-school is widely known in all local communities. We will place notices advertising the nursery/ nursery/ pre-school in places where all sections of the community can see them, in more than one language if appropriate arrange our waiting list in an order which benefits the children the most; e.g. placing siblings together, or to accommodate parents who because of shift work cannot find a placement in another nursery keep a place vacant, if this is financially viable, in order to accommodate emergency admissions describe the nursery/ nursery/ pre-school and its practices in terms which make it clear that it welcomes both fathers and mothers, other relations and other carers, including childminders, and people from all cultural, ethnic, religious and social groups, with and without disabilities monitor the gender and ethnic background of children joining the group to ensure that no accidental discrimination is taking place make our equal opportunities policy widely known consult with families about the opening times of the nursery/ nursery/ pre-school to avoid excluding anyone be flexible about attendance patterns so as to accommodate the needs of individual children and families continue to consult local parents to ensure that the group goes on meeting the changing needs of the local community.
Behaviour Management - Policy and PracticeWe believe that children and adults flourish best in an ordered environment in which everyone knows what is expected of them and children are free to develop their play and learning without fear of being hurt or hindered by anyone else. We aim to work towards 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 to offer strategies for handling any conflict Rules governing the conduct of the group and the behaviour of the children will be discussed and agreed within the nursery/ pre-school and explained to all newcomers, both children and adults All adults in the nursery/ pre-school will ensure that the rules are applied consistently, so that children have the security of knowing what to expect and can build up useful habits of behaviour Adults in the nursery/ pre-school 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. When children behave in unacceptable ways: They will be given one-to-one adult support in seeing what was wrong and how to cope more appropriately. Where appropriate, this might be accomplished by a period of "time out" with an adult. Children will never be sent out of the room by themselves. Physical punishment, such as smacking or shaking, will be neither used nor threatened. Techniques intended to single out and humiliate individual children such as the "naughty chair" 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 significant event of this sort will be recorded in the incident file, and the parent informed the same day. In cases of serious misbehaviour, such as racial or other abuse, the unacceptability of the behaviour and attitudes will be made clear immediately, but by means of explanations rather than personal blame. In any case of misbehaviour, it will always be made clear to the child or children in question that it is the behaviour and not the child that is unwelcome. Adults will not shout, or raise their voices in a threatening way. Adults in the nursery/ pre-school will make themselves aware of, and respect, a range of cultural expectations regarding interactions between people. Any behaviour problems will be handled in a developmentally appropriate fashion, respecting individual children's level of understanding and maturity. Recurring problems will be tackled by the whole nursery/ pre-school, using objective observation records to establish an understanding of the cause. Adults will be aware that some kinds of behaviour may arise from a child's special needs.
Biting Policy When a child either bites another child or a member of staff whilst at nursery the following policy should be used to deal with the situation.
1) The child who has been bitten: They should be inspected immediately for any visible injury. Any unbroken skin injury should be treated with a cold compress to alleviate any swelling. If the child has a broken skin injury a dry compress should be applied until any bleeding has subsided. Then a suitable dry dressing used to cover the wound. The incident should be recorded on an incident form as soon as possible, where possible this should be completed by any member of staff who has witnessed or was in close vicinity of the incident. Any witnesses should be recorded on the incident form. This form should then be passed onto either the manager or proprietor and kept in the office.
The childs parents or guardian should be informed at the first available opportunity. They should not be shown the incident form as this will name the child who has bitten their child. Due to confidentiality purposes and possible conflict this information shall not be disclosed. 2) The child who has caused the bite: This child should be taken aside and told that they should not have done that. The words naughty or bad should NOT be used to deal with the situation. On the first occasion this incident is able to go unreported to the parents unless the bite is particularly big or involves broken skin. The nursery accepts this could be a one off incident and in many children this behaviour will not be repeated. If the child shows any intention to bite another child at nursery on a second occasion, or actually bites for a second time, then the room leader should approach the childs parents or guardian and inform them of the situation. If the room leader is not available then a senior member of staff should be responsible for informing parents. The parents of the child who has bitten another child can be told the name of the injured child if they ask for this information. If they do not ask then this information will not be provided. The main purpose of keeping the named children confidential is to prevent any possible conflict between the two parties. Any discussions of this nature should be done in a private matter, away form other parents and children. The office is a suitable place for informing parents. 3) Recurrent biting: If a child continues to bite on more than one occasion, the child who is biting should be immediately removed to stop any further harm coming to the children around him/ her. Holding is permissible to stop further occurrences in the short term. Further help should be immediately sought and management informed. Any problems arising from a biting incident that is not discussed in this policy should be addressed by either the nursery manager or the proprietors.
Bullying PolicyBullying in any form is not tolerated at HunnyPot. Whether it be emotional, physical or emotional, it will not be accepted for both staff and children to bully. In the case of staff, disciplinary procedures will be taken. In the case of children, discussions with parents will be implemented and a strategy drawn up to tackle any bullying problems which may arise.
Child Protection - Policies and ProceduresWe comply with the procedures approved by the Area Child Protection Committee. We intend to create in our nursery/ pre-school 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: Exclude known abusers It will be made clear to applicants for posts within the nursery/ pre-school that the position is exempt from the provisions of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All applicants for work within the nursery/ pre-school, whether voluntary or paid, will be interviewed before an appointment is made and will be asked to provide at least two references. All such references will be followed up. In the case of applicants with unexplained gaps in their employment history, or who have moved rapidly from one job to another, explanations will be sought. Management reserve the right to seek police checks for new staff and to seek advice from Social Services/ EYDCP. All appointments, both paid and voluntary, will be subject to a probationary period and will not be confirmed unless the nursery/ pre-school is confident that the applicant can be safely entrusted with children. Seek and supply training We will seek out training opportunities for all adults involved in the group to ensure that they recognise the symptoms of possible physical abuse, neglect, emotional abuse and sexual abuse. Prevent abuse by means of good practiceAdults will not be left alone for long periods with individual children or with small groups. An adult who needs to take a child aside for example, for time out after behaviour which needs improvement - will leave the door ajar. Adults who are not employed by the nursery, e.g. students, will not take children unaccompanied to the toilet. Children will be encouraged to develop a sense of autonomy and independence through adult support in making choices and in finding names for their own feelings and acceptable ways to express them. This will enable children to have the self-confidence and the vocabulary to resist inappropriate approaches.The layout of the playroom(s) will permit constant supervision of all children. Respond appropriately to child protection issuesThe 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 Social Services Department/ EYDCP. In exceptional circumstances, the Social Services Department may be the first point of reference. All such suspicions and investigations will be kept confidential, shared only with those who need to know. The people most commonly involved will be the member of staff/key worker and the nursery management team. If a volunteer or member of staff is accused of any form of child abuse, s/he will be interviewed immediately by senior management. The person accused may choose to attend the interview accompanied by a friend or colleague and to seek advice from a union representative. The interview will usually be with a member of senior management. However, if the allegation is against the manager, the interview may be conducted by the owners. The person against whom the allegation is made will be informed of the allegation and will immediately be suspended on full pay (provided they are on a permanent contract) while an investigation is made. Investigations will be in line with Area Child Protection Committee procedures and conducted in conjunction with the Area Child Protection Committee. Confidential records will be kept of the allegation and of all subsequent proceedings. Keep recordsWhenever worrying changes are observed in a child's behaviour, physical condition or appearance, a specific and confidential record will be set up, quite separate from the usual on-going records of children's progress and development. The record will include, in addition to the name, address and age of the child: timed and dated observations, describing objectively the child's behaviour/appearance, without comment or interpretation; where possible, the exact words spoken by the child; the dated name and signature of the recorder. Such records will be kept in a separate file and will not be accessible to people other than nursery management or other member of staff as appropriate. Liase with other bodiesThe nursery/ pre-school operates in accordance with guidelines laid down by the registering authority. Confidential records kept on children about whom the nursery/ pre-school is anxious will be shared with the Social Services Department if the nursery/ pre-school feels that adequate explanations for changes in the child's condition have not been provided. The group will maintain ongoing contact with the registering authority, together with names, addresses and telephone numbers of individual social workers, to ensure that it would be easy, in any emergency, for the nursery/ pre-school and the Social Services Department to work well together. Records will also be kept of the local NSPCC contact, or other contact(s) as appropriate. Support familiesThe nursery/ pre-school will take every step in its power to build up trusting and supportive relationships between families and staff and volunteers in the group. Where a child protection issue is suspected, the nursery/ pre-school will continue to welcome the child and family while investigations proceed. Confidential records kept on a child will be shared with parents. With the proviso that the care and safety of the child must always be paramount, the nursery/ pre-school will do all in its power to support and work with the child's family.
Complaints ProcedureAs a member of the Nursery/ pre-school Learning Alliance we aim to provide the highest quality education and care for all our children. We aim to offer a welcome to each individual child and family and to provide a warm and caring environment within which all children can learn and develop as they play. 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 the community generally and we welcome suggestions on how to improve our group at any time. Many concerns can be resolved quickly by an informal approach to the appropriate member of staff. If this does not achieve the desired result, the following procedures should be used. How to complain: - A parent who is uneasy about any aspect of the group's provision should first of all talk over any worries and anxieties with the nursery/ pre-school manager. - If this does not have a satisfactory outcome within two weeks, or if the problem recurs, the parent should put the concerns or complaint in writing to the nursery/ pre-school owner. - The next stage is to request a meeting with the nursery/ pre-school owners. Both parents and the manager should have a friend or partner present if required and an agreed written record of the discussion should be made. Most complaints should be resolved informally or at this initial stage - If the matter is still not sorted out to the parent's satisfaction, the parent should again contact the owner. At this point, if parent and group cannot reach agreement, it might be helpful to invite an external mediator, one who is acceptable to both parties, to listen to both sides and offer advice (such as a member of EYDCP). A mediator has no legal powers but can help to help define the problem, review the action so far and suggest further ways in which it might be resolved. - Staff or volunteers within the Nursery/ pre-school Learning Alliance will be available to act as mediator if both parties wish it. - The mediator will keep all discussion confidential. S/he will meet with the group if requested and will keep an agreed written record of any meetings that are held and of any advice s/he has given. The involvement of a mediator represents the final stage in the complaints procedure.
The role of the registering authority In some circumstances, it will be necessary to bring in the registering body, which has a duty to ensure laid down requirements are adhered to and with whom the Nursery/ pre-school Learning Alliance works in partnership to encourage high standards. The registering authority would be involved if a child appeared to be at risk or where there seemed to be a possible breach of registration requirements. In these cases both parent and nursery/ pre-school would be informed and the Nursery/ pre-school Learning Alliance fieldworker would work with the registering body to ensure a proper investigation of the complaint followed by appropriate action. We believe that most complaints are made constructively and can be sorted out at an early stage. We also believe that it is in the best interests of the nursery/ pre-school and parents that complaints should be taken seriously and dealt with fairly and in a way which respects confidentiality.
Confidentiality PolicyThe nursery/ pre-school's work with children and families will sometimes bring us into contact with confidential information. To ensure that all those using and working in the nursery/ pre-school can do so with confidence, we will respect Confidentiality in the following ways: Parents will have ready access to the files and records of their own children but will not have access to information about any other child. Staff and students will not discuss individual children, other than for purposes of curriculum planning/group management, with people other than the parents/carers of that child. Confidential information should not be passed over the telephone. Information given by parents/carers to the nursery/ pre-school manager or key-worker will not be passed on to other adults without permission. Issues to do with the employment of staff, whether paid or unpaid, will remain confidential to the people directly involved with making personnel decisions. Any anxieties/evidence relating to a child's personal safety will be kept in a confidential file and will not be shared within the group except with the child's key-worker/ play-manager and the chair/owner. Students during training, when they are observing in the nursery/ pre-school, will be advised of our confidentiality policy and required to respect it. All the undertakings above are subject to the paramount commitment of the nursery/ pre-school, which is to the safety and well-being of the child. Please see also our policy on child protection.
Diet - Policy and PracticeThe sharing of refreshments can play an important part in the social life of the nursery/ pre-school as well as reinforcing children's understanding of the importance of healthy eating. The nursery/ pre-school will ensure that it fulfils all the requirements of the registering authority and that: All meals and snacks provided are nutritious, avoiding large quantities of fat, sugar, salt, additives, preservatives and colourings Before a child starts to attend the group, staff discuss with parents the child's dietary needs, including any allergies, and make appropriate arrangements to meet them Menus are planned in advance and food offered is fresh, wholesome and balanced A diet encompassing food from a range of cultures ensures that children from all backgrounds encounter familiar tastes and that all children have the opportunity also to try unfamiliar foods The dietary rules of religious groups and also of vegetarians/vegans are known and met in appropriate ways Water is constantly available Children are offered food every three hours Children arriving early and/or staying late will be offered an appropriate meal or snack Menus of meals/snacks are displayed for the information of parents The following elements are included in main meals on offer at HunnyPot: - protein for growth - carbohydrate for energy - essential minerals and vitamins in raw foods, salads and fruits Milk provided for children is whole and pasteurised.
Enrolment for the Child To introduce a child to the nursery it is best to have a settling in period. We advise your child has a couple of visits to the nursery before the child is due to start. On the first visit the child will be accompanied by the parent / carer and have a general look around the nursery; he or she will then meet the key worker and other members of staff. The key worker (Nursery Nurse) will discuss with the parent about the general routine that the child will follow; for example, sleep patterns, any special dietary requirements, what type of milk the child has for feeds, and if there is a favourite toy that he/ she may like to bring to the nursery. The above information will then be written and stored in the childs own personal file. The child and parent will stay for about one hour in which the child can play and interact with the other children and establish a bond with the Nursery Nurse. On the second visit to the nursery the child would ideally stay for a meal, either lunch or tea depending on which is most convenient for the nursery and the parents. He/she will be greeted by his Nursery Nurse who will look after the child for the duration of the stay and have one to one care where possible. Parents are welcome to telephone at any time during the visit to see how the child is settling in. At the end of the visit a full report will be given to the parent and any remaining questions answered.
Equal Opportunities Policy The Nursery/ pre-school Learning Alliance is committed to helping nursery/ pre-schools provide equality of opportunity for all children and families and take positive action to eliminate discrimination in all areas of their work. As a member of the Alliance, HunnyPot Day Nursery and Education Centre works in accordance with all relevant legislation, including - Disability Discrimination Act 1995 - Race Relations Act 1976 - Sex Discrimination Act 1986 - Children Act 1989 We believe that the group's activities should be open to all children and families, and to all adults committed to their education and care. We aim to ensure that all who wish to work in, or volunteer to help with, our nursery/ pre-school have an equal chance to do so. AdmissionsThe nursery/ pre-school is open to every family in the community. The waiting list is not operated on a first come, first served basis but on a fairer system. Please see our child admissions policy. Families joining the nursery/ pre-school are made aware of its equal opportunities policy, which is regularly reviewed. Employment Any vacancies will be advertised. The pre- school will appoint the best person for each job and will treat fairly all applicants for jobs and all those appointed. Commitment to implementing the group's Equal Opportunities Policy will form part of the job description for all workers. Families The nursery/ pre-school recognises that many different types of family group can and do successfully love and care for children. The nursery/ pre-school aims to offer support to all families. The nursery/ pre-school offers a flexible payment system for families with differing means, either by cheque, standing order or cash payment. The nursery aims to offer support to all families including providing a translator for people from other cultural backgrounds where possible. FestivalsOur aim is to show respectful awareness of all the major events in the lives of the children and families in the nursery/ pre-school, and in our society as a whole, and to welcome the diversity of backgrounds from which they come.In order to achieve this: We aim to acknowledge all the festivals which are celebrated in our area and/or by the families involved in the nursery/ pre-school. Without indoctrination in any specific faith, children will be made aware of the festivals which are being celebrated by their own families or others, and will be introduced where appropriate to the stories behind the festivals. Before introducing a festival with which the adults in the nursery/ pre-school are not themselves familiar, appropriate advice will be sought from parents and other people who are familiar with that festival. Children and families who celebrate at home festivals with which the rest of the nursery/ pre-school is not familiar will be invited to share their festival with the rest of the group, if they themselves wish to do so. Children will become familiar with and enjoy taking part in a range of festivals, together with the stories, celebrations and special food and clothing they involve, as part of the diversity of life. The CurriculumAll children will be respected and their individuality and potential recognised, valued and nurtured. Activities and the use of play equipment offer children opportunities to develop in an environment free from prejudice and discrimination. Management of resources within the nursery/ pre-school will ensure that both girls and boys have full access to all kinds of activities and equipment and are equally encouraged to enjoy and learn from them. Appropriate opportunities will be given to children to explore, acknowledge and value similarities and differences between themselves and others. Resources These will be chosen to give children a balanced view of the world and an appreciation of the rich diversity of our multi-racial society. Materials will be selected to help children to develop their self-respect and to respect other people by avoiding stereotypes and by using images and words which reflect positively the contribution of all members of society. Special NeedsThe nursery/ pre-school recognises that children have a wide range of needs which differ from time to time, and will consider what part it can play in meeting these needs as they arise. Planning for nursery/ pre-school meetings and events will take into account the needs of people with special educational needs and disabilities. We positively encourage any outside assistance from people such as health visitors, physiotherapists, speech therapists and other outside agencies in order to provide the best care possible where a special need is identified. Discriminatory Behaviour/RemarksAny discriminatory language, behaviour or remarks by children, parents or any other adults are unacceptable in the nursery/ pre-school. Our response will aim to demonstrate support for the victim(s), to help those responsible to understand and overcome their prejudices and to make it clear that such behaviour/remarks will not be tolerated. Language Basic information, written and spoken, will be clearly communicated in as many languages as are necessary and possible. Bilingual/multilingual children and adults are an asset to the whole group. Parents will be encouraged to speak to children in their first language at home. Children and parents who have English as a second or additional language will be valued and their languages recognised and respected in the nursery/ pre-school. Food Working in partnership with parents, children's medical, cultural and dietary needs will be met. Meetings The nursery/ pre-school will make every effort to ensure that the time, place and conduct of meetings enable the majority of parents to attend so that all families have an equal opportunity to be involved in and informed about the nursery/ pre-school.
Health & Hygiene - Policy and PracticeOur nursery/ pre-school promotes a healthy lifestyle and a high standard of hygiene in its day to day work with children and adults. This is achieved in the following ways: Health: Food All meals and snacks provided will be nutritious and pay due attention to children's particular dietary requirements. When cooking with children as an activity, the adults will provide healthy, wholesome food, promoting and extending the children's understanding of a healthy diet. Outdoor play Children will have the opportunity to play outside throughout the year in the pre- school's own outside play area and on outings to parks. Illness Parents are asked to keep their children at home if they have any infection, and to inform the nursery/ pre-school as to the nature of the infection. This will allow the nursery/ pre-school to alert other parents as necessary and to make careful observations of any child who seems unwell. Parents are asked not to bring into the nursery/ pre-school any child who has been vomiting or had diarrhoea until at least 24 hours has elapsed since the last attack. If the children of nursery/ pre-school staff are unwell, the children will not accompany their parents/carers to work in the nursery/ pre-school. Cuts or open sores, whether on adults or children, will be covered with sticking plaster or other dressing. If the child is on prescribed medication the following procedures will be followed: - If possible, the child's parents will administer medicine. If not, then medication must be stored in the original container and clearly labelled with child's name, dosage and any instructions. - Written information will be obtained from the parent, giving clear instructions about the dosage, administration of the medication and permission for a member of staff to follow the instructions. - All medications will be kept in a lockable cupboard or fridge. - A personal medicine form will be available for each child receiving medication in order to log in: name of child receiving medication; times that the medication should be administered; date and time when medication is administered, together with the signature of the person who has administered each dose. It will be double-checked by another member of staff present, and signed twice. One of the members of staff will be qualified to NNEB or equivalent. With regard to the administration of life saving medication such as insulin/ adrenaline injections or the use of nebulisers, the position will be clarified by reference to the nursery/ pre-school's insurance company. If specialist knowledge is required, staff involved in administering medication will receive training from a qualified health professional. We have an on-site Registered General Nurse who will administer such training. The nursery/ pre-school 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. There will always be on the premises at least one qualified first aider trained to administer first aid to children Information sources* Parents will have the opportunity to discuss health issues with nursery/ pre-school staff and will have access to information available to the nursery/ pre-school. * The nursery/ pre-school will maintain links with health visitors and gather health information and advice from the local health authority information services and/ or other health agencies. Hygiene: To prevent the spread of all infection, adults in the group will ensure that the following good practices are observed: Personal hygiene Hands washed after using the toilet and before handling food. Toothbrushes not shared. Children with pierced ears not allowed to share each other's earrings. Children encouraged to blow and wipe their noses when necessary and to dispose of soiled tissues hygienically. Individual towels available, or paper towels used and disposed of appropriately. Hygiene rules related to bodily fluids followed with particular care and all staff and volunteers aware of how infections, including HIV infection, can be transmitted. Cleaning and clearing Any spills of blood, vomit or excrement wiped up and flushed away down the toilet. Rubber gloves always used when cleaning up spills of body fluids. Floors and other affected surfaces disinfected using chlorine or iodine bleach diluted according to the manufacturer's instructions. Fabrics contaminated with body fluids thoroughly washed in hot water. Spare laundered pants and other clothing available in case of accidents, and polythene bags available in which to wrap soiled garments. All surfaces cleaned daily with an appropriate cleaner FoodThe nursery/ pre-school will observe current legislation regarding food hygiene, registration and training. In particular, each adult will: Always wash hands under running water using an anti-bacterial soap provided before handling food and after using the toilet. Not be involved with the preparation of food if suffering from any infectious/ contagious illness or skin trouble. Never smoke in the kitchen or in any room storing food. Never cough or sneeze over food. Use different cleaning cloths for kitchen and toilet areas. Prepare raw and cooked food in separate areas. Keep food covered and either refrigerated or piping hot.
Parental InvolvementParents are the first educators of their young children. The aim of the group is to support parents in their essential role. We will: involve parents in shared record keeping about their own child, both formally and informally, ensuring that parents have access to all written records on their own children. ensure that parents are given information on a regular basis about their child's progress and have an opportunity to discuss it with staff. ensure that all parents have opportunities to contribute from their own skills, knowledge and interests to the activities of the group. ensure that all new parents are aware of and can contribute to the group's systems and policies. encourage parents to be involved in specific activities (such as baking), and to play an active part in the management of the group. ensure that all parents are fully informed about meetings, conferences, workshops and training. consult with families about the times of meetings to avoid excluding anyone. hold meetings in venues which are accessible and appropriate for all. welcome the contributions of parents, whatever form these may take. make known to all parents the systems for registering queries, complaints or suggestions. provide opportunities for parents to learn about the nursery/ pre-school curriculum and about young children's learning, in nursery/ pre-school and at home.
Reporting Incidents within the Nursery Every member of staff is responsible for completing an incident form if they have either witnessed an incident, or been directly involved in an incident. Incidents to be reported include: any accident or injury to a child within the nursery any accident or injury to a member of staff or visitor within the nursery any wrongful administration of a drug any incident which a member of staff deems to be appropriate All incidents will be logged on an official HunnyPot Incident Form on the same day that the incident occurs. The form must be given to the manager and signed by parents. If a child is involved in an incident, the parents must be informed and shown the incident form. A signature will be requested to acknowledge this. All incidents forms will be filed and retained for future reference.
SafetyThe safety of young children is of paramount importance. In order to ensure the safety of both children and adults, the nursery/ pre-school will ensure safety in the following areas: Environment Safety checks on premises, both outdoors and indoors, will be made before every day/ session. The main entrance will be permanently locked and there will be a buzzer/ intercom system. There will be a key close by at adults' level in order for fire regulations to be observed.. Low-level glass is safety glass, marked to British Standards. Outdoor space is securely fenced. Public space used for outdoor play will be checked for litter and other dangers. Equipment will be checked regularly and any dangerous items repaired/discarded. The layout and space ratios will allow children and adults to move safely and freely between activities. There will be adequate systems and equipment for the detection and control of fire. Fire doors will never be obstructed and fire exits will be easily identifiable. Fires/heaters/electric points/wires and leads will be adequately guarded. A record will be kept of any checks by the Fire Safety Officer and also of fire drills and servicing of fire safety equipment. Any recommendations by the Fire Safety Officer will be carried out. All dangerous materials, including medicines and cleaning materials, will be stored out of reach of children. Large equipment will be erected with care and checked regularly. Equipment offered to children will be developmentally appropriate, recognising that materials suitable for an older child may pose a risk to younger/less mature children. Internal safety gates/barriers will be used as necessary. Supervision All children will be supervised by adults at all times and will always be within sight of an adult. Children will leave the group only with authorised adults. Children will not have unsupervised access to kitchens, cookers or any cupboards storing hazardous materials including matches. On outings, the adult/child ratio will be at least one to two, or whatever the new OFSTED regulations dictate. If a small group goes out, there will be sufficient adults to maintain appropriate ratios for staff and children remaining on the premises. Whenever children are on the premises at least two adults will be present. Children who are sleeping will be checked regularly and baby monitors used. Adult safety All adults in the group, both staff and visitors, will be aware of and respect the group's safety policies. Adults in the group will have access to advice on safe lifting. If adults need to reach up for stored equipment, they will be provided with something safe to stand on. Heavy materials will not be stored above head height. Adults will not be required to be in the building alone, or to leave alone after dark. There will be a signing in and out book for adults visiting HunnyPot. Management A book will be available at each session for the reporting of any accident/incidents. Regular safety monitoring will include checking of the accident records as a basis for risk assessment. All adults, including parents and other carers, will be aware of the system(s) in operation for children's arrivals and departures and an adult will be at the door during these periods. Adults will not walk about with hot drinks or place hot drinks within reach of children. Fire drills will be held once a term. A register of both adults and children will be completed as people arrive and leave so that a complete record of all those present is available in any emergency. There will be no smoking in the HunnyPot premises, including the outside play area. Fire extinguishers will be checked annually by qualified fire technicians and staff will know how to use them. Special considerations Some areas and activities pose particular hazards. All staff will be aware of these: Children playing with or near water will be continuously supervised. There will be safe surfaces beneath and around all climbing equipment and such activities will be appropriately supervised. All cooking activities will be carried out in the rooms provided. Children will never be allowed into the kitchen area. Access to dangerous areas such as stairways will be physically restricted and closely supervised. Systems will be in place to ensure that children are not at risk from swinging doors. Systems will be in place to ensure that no child can leave the premises unattended. A correctly stocked first aid box will be available at all times.
Selecting Play Equipment and Toys The toys and equipment in nursery/ pre-school provide opportunities for children, with adult help, to develop new skills and concepts in the course of their play and exploration. The equipment we provide: is appropriate for the ages and stages of the children will enable children, with adult support, to develop individual potential and move towards required early learning goals offers challenges to developing physical, social, personal and intellectual skills conforms to all relevant safety regulations and is sound and well-made features positive images of people, both male and female, from a range of ethnic and cultural groups, with and without disabilities includes a range of raw materials which can be used in a variety of ways and encourages an open-ended approach to creativity and problem-solving
Settling in Nursery/ pre-schoolWe want children to feel safe and happy in the absence of their parents, to recognise other adults as a source of authority, help and friendship and to be able to share with their parents afterwards the new learning experiences enjoyed in the nursery/ pre-school. We also want parents to feel welcome and involved from the beginning. In order to accomplish this, we aim to create a partnership with parents in the following ways: by creating opportunities for the exchange of information, using among other resources a copy of the nursery/ pre-school's prospectus and a shared approach to the registration form by ensuring plentiful opportunities for parents to inform the nursery/ pre-school about their children's current achievements and interests by encouraging parents to visit the nursery/ pre-school with their children during the weeks before an admission is planned. by offering to arrange a home visit in order to gain more insight into the child's background and needs and to allow the child and family to become familiar with nursery/ pre-school adults, if appropriate. by introducing flexible admission procedures, if appropriate, to meet the needs of individual families and children. by making clear to families from the outset that they will be welcome and supported in the nursery/ pre-school for as long as it takes to settle their child there. by reassuring parents whose children seem to be taking a long time settling into the nursery/ pre-school. by introducing new families into the group on a staggered basis, for example two new children a day for a week rather than 10 new children all at once. by encouraging parents, where appropriate, to separate from their children for brief periods at first, gradually building up to longer absences. Children cannot play or learn successfully if they are anxious and unhappy. Our settling procedures aim to help parents and children to feel comfortable in the nursery/ pre-school, and to ensure that children can benefit from what the group has to offer and feel confident that their parents will return at the end of the session/day.
Special Needs - Policies and ProceduresThe identified SENCO at HunnyPot is Andy Remic. Our nursery/ pre-school aims to have regard to the DfES Code of Practice on special educational needs and also to the guidelines supplied to private and voluntary providers of nursery/ pre-school education. We aim to provide a welcome, and appropriate learning opportunities, for all children. Children with special needs, like all other children, are admitted to the nursery/ pre-school after consultation between parents, nursery/ pre-school manager and key-worker. Our aim is to provide for the developmental needs of each child in the group. All children in the group, irrespective of their special needs, are encouraged wherever possible and appropriate to participate in all the group's activities. Our system of observation and record-keeping, which operates in conjunction with parents, enables us to monitor children's needs and progress on an individual basis. The needs and progress of children who have special educational needs are monitored by our group's special educational needs co-ordinator. Our key-worker system ensures that each adult is specially responsible for, and close to, just five or six children, so each child receives plenty of adult time and attention. We work closely with the parents of all the children in the group to ensure that - the group draws upon the knowledge and expertise of parents in planning provision for the child - the child's progress and achievements are shared and discussed with parents on a regular basis (and usually on a daily basis) - parents know the identity of the group's special educational needs co-ordinator - parents are aware of the arrangements for the admission and integration of children with special educational needs
If it is felt that a child's needs cannot be met in the nursery/ pre-school without additional personnel and/or equipment, funding will be sought to ensure that provision is appropriate to the child's needs. We work in liaison with relevant professionals and agencies outside the group to meet children's specific needs. Our staff attend whenever possible in-service training on special needs arranged by the Nursery/ pre-school Learning Alliance and other professional bodies. Individual children will be assessed on a regular basis via interviews with keyworker and the SENCO, observation of the child in a play setting, and by analysis of work produced. All the usual records will be kept, but in addition a special SEN folder with targets will be produced, and monitoring and target setting used to ascertain progress of children with Special Educational Needs. Depending on individual circumstances, we feel it of paramount importance that children with SEN are offered curriculum specific objectives, and a broad and balanced curriculum in line with the other children present. It is also important that SEN children are allowed play and learning with their peers. If specific targets are identified for an individual, then professional help will be sought. Links between the nursery/ pre-school and external support services, including the local authority and voluntary organisations will be sought when needed via EYDCP. SEN policies will be reviewed and procedures will be reviewed monthly by the HunnyPot SENCO.
Staff InductionAll staff will follow the same induction programme. This will occur on the first day of employment, and will include: access and provision to the HunnyPot policies and procedures; it will be expected that staff read these documents. locations of toilets and procedures in taking children to the toilet. instruction on the fire drill, fire extinguisher and break glass points, and the procedure for evacuation of the building in the event of a fire. on induction staff will be shown the Health and Safety poster and asked to read its contents. new staff will be made aware that HunnyPot is a no smoking building, and that no form of drug be it alcohol, nicotine or whatever will be permitted on the premises.
Staffing and EmploymentA high adult/ child ratio is essential in providing good quality nursery/ pre-school care. In our nursery/ pre-school: We have at least one member of staff to each eight children, and more if there are younger children present in line with current OFSTED recommendations. Our key-worker system ensures each child and family has one particular staff member who takes a special interest in them. Regular staff meetings provide opportunities for staff to undertake curriculum planning and to discuss the children's progress and any difficulties. We work towards an equal opportunities employment policy, seeking to offer job opportunities equally to both women and men, with and without disabilities, from all religious, social, ethnic and cultural groups. Staff training meets all regulatory requirements. In addition we aim to ensure that at least half of our staff hold the Diploma in Nursery/ pre-school Practice/ NNEB/ NVQ level 2 (or above) or an equivalent qualification, and all staff hold or are working towards qualifications appropriate for their position in the group. Regular in-service training is available to all staff, both paid and volunteer members, through the Nursery/ pre-school Learning Alliance. Our nursery/ pre-school's budget includes an allocation towards training costs. We support the work of our staff and identify their ongoing training and development needs by means of regular monitoring/appraisals. We are committed to recruiting, appointing and employing staff in accordance with all relevant legislation.
Student Induction PolicyStudents will undergo a rigorous induction policy to make-sure they know what to do in the event of fires, to show they understand health and safety issue and confidentiality issues, etc. Students will be asked to: Read the Health and Safety at work poster Read, understand and adhere to policies of confidentiality, safety, hygiene etc. including confidential information not being passed over the telephone Read the nursery policies and agree to abide by them Students will be shown fire exits and meeting places, and will be taken through the fire drill so that they know what to do in the event of a fire. Students will be made aware of the risks inherent in a nursery/ pre-school setting.
Student PlacementsWe recognise that the quality and variety of work which goes on in a nursery/ pre-school makes it an ideal place for students on placement from Early Years training and qualifications as well as those on the Diploma in Nursery/ pre-school Practice or Tutor Fieldworker courses. In co-operation with educational providers, we welcome students into the nursery/ pre-school on the following conditions: All students will be supervised and supported at all times The needs of the children are paramount. Students will not be admitted in numbers which hinder the essential work of the nursery/ pre-school. Students must be engaged in bona fide early years training which provides necessary background understanding of children's development and activities. Any information gained by the students about the children, families or other adults in the nursery/ pre-school must remain confidential. Unless registered as fit persons, students will not have unrestricted access to children. All new students will have a programme of induction and must adhere to HunnyPot policies and procedures.
Data Protection Policy* Posters are displayed in reception and the office informing parents/ staff that information will be held on them either manually or on a computer * All parents are asked to sign a consent form giving express written permission to store data on children and parents either in a manual or electronic format * No information will ever be shared with a third party (e.g. for marketing purposes) * Upon written request, parents, staff etc are entitled to see any information we hold on them either manually or digitally; there will be a nominal clerical fee of £10.00 * All information held on parents and children is strictly confidential staff are trained in this area and know that all information stored on children/ parents/ staff is highly confidential and must not be released without express permission of the direct person involved * All personal and private information is stored in locked steel cupboards; all computerised digital information is stored under password which protects access to the computer system * Your Data Compliance Officer is Andy Remic | |
