Daycare at Reading children’s centre provides “exceptional, child-centred learning environment”

An Ofsted inspection found that the quality of care, teaching and facilities for Reading children under five at the Kingfisher Daycare at Caversham children’s centre are good.

Ofsted inspectors visited the Reading children’s centre in October and their report, which has just been published, said: "Overall the quality of provision is good."

They also noted three aspects of provision that were outstanding:

* The effectiveness with which the setting deploys resources
* The effectiveness of partnerships
* The extent to which children feel safe

They said staff meet children’s care and learning needs because they recognise the unique qualities of every child and support them sensitively.

Key strengths were the "exceptional, child-centred learning environment" and the "close relationship with other carers, professionals and family services in the children’s centre".

Other strengths mentioned in the report were:

* Very good organisation
* Very positive outcomes for the children, who feel confident, safe and secure
* An exciting and enabling environment with excellent resources
* Staff’s friendly and approachable relationship with parents
* Staff encourage positive behaviour and are "calm role models who manage behaviour appropriately"
* Children are well behaved and feel safe because they have built up secure relationships with staff and each other
* Children show confidence with other adults and are curious and enquiring
* Children’s good health is maintained well and they benefit from daily fresh air and exercise and eat healthy snacks
* Children develop well as staff have a good knowledge and understanding of how children learn
* Staff ensure all children are able to participate in activities and experiences

Headteacher and Reading Centre Manager Ruth Parker said: "We are delighted with this very positive Ofsted report. Kingfisher Daycare was opened in May, shortly after we moved into the new Caversham Children’s Centre building. The report truly reflects the commitment, hard work and enthusiasm of our Daycare team."

John Ennis, Lead Councillor for Reading Children’s Services, said: "I congratulate everyone associated with the daycare facility at Caversham Children’s Centre on achieving such a good Ofsted report. It is very clear that lots of exciting work is going on there, that children are being stimulated by the activities provided and also receiving a good standard of care."

* Any families who may be interested in the Daycare facilities are very welcome to visit. Please telephone 0118 937 5429 and ask to speak to Jean James, Daycare Manager, or Claire Simpson, Deputy Daycare Manager.

Reading Borough Council