The Star Day Care Centre
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
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Our Vision
The Star Day Care Centre provides innovative, high quality early learning
experiences for young children and training, volunteering and employment
opportunities for local parents/carers and other residents, supporting the
regeneration of the local community to contribute to long-term social and
economic stability.
Our Ethos
The Star Day Care Centre believes in the value of play in children’s and family
development and the importance of the environment in the life of the
community. We aspire to follow the philosophy of Reggio Emilia. Underpinning
this ethos are the key values of The Star Day Care Centre:
Participation: Activities are developed by local families for local families.
Inclusion: The Star Day Care Centre activities and services promote social
justice and inclusion and tackle disadvantage.
Partnership: The Star Day Care Centre believes that partnership between the
voluntary, statutory and private sectors will deliver more and better services to
the community.
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Our Aims
The Star Day Care Centre aims focus on the locally-identified needs of
children and families and are underpinned by the five outcomes for children
outlined in Every Child Matters: Change for Children.
Our aims are to:
Be healthy
The Star Day Care Centre works to improve health and promote choices for
families with young children. We aim to reduce inequalities by working in
partnership to strengthen and build healthy neighbourhood renewal.
Stay safe
The Star Day Care Centre creates safe environments that promote security
and stability, and tackle bullying and discrimination. Our aim is to build
confidence in children and adults who respect themselves and each other.
Enjoy and achieve
We aim to develop access to a range of creative, stimulating learning
experiences so that children and families enjoy childhood and achieve their
potential. The Star Day Care Centre will act as a focus for fun-filled, exciting
services, creating new early education and daycare that enhances local
provision, as well as supporting childminders and providing crèches. This will
enable parents/carers and carers to take up training and development
opportunities.
Make a positive contribution
The Star Day Care Centre celebrates diversity and aims to develop a sense of
community belonging by facilitating community participation, volunteering
and building bridges between groups within the neighbourhood. We will work
in partnership with local, national and international agencies that protect the
environment and develop ecological awareness and ownership of the future.
Achieve economic well being
The Star Day Care Centre aims to raise self esteem, reduce social isolation,
contribute to economic well being, and equip local people for employment.
We will offer opportunities for training and volunteering to help local people
to build up their skills and experience and get work. By providing childcare
support we enable parents/carers to overcome barriers.
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A Unique Child
(Every Child Matters)
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Equality and Diversity Policy
(Make a positive contribution)
Statement of Intent
(Make a positive contribution)
Admissions Policy
(Enjoy and Achieve)
Settling in policy
(Enjoy and Achieve)
Inclusion policy
(Make a positive contribution)
Identifying additional needs (Enjoy and Achieve)
Safeguarding children policy (Stay Safe)
Allegations against adults
(Stay Safe)
Data and retention of use
(Stay Safe)
Confidentiality
(Make a positive contribution)
Health and Safety Policy
(Be Healthy)
Fire Procedure
(Stay Safe
Accidents/near misses/dangerous(stay safe)
Contingency Plan
(Stay Safe)
Visitors
(Stay Safe)
Intruder policy
(stay safe)
Lost child
(Make a positive contribution)
Unwell children
(Be Healthy)
First Aid
(Be Healthy)
Medicines policy
(Be Healthy)
Protecting children from the sun(Stay Safe)
Children’s rest needs
(Be Healthy)
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Positive Relationships
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Key person
(Make a positive contribution)
Food and drink
(Be Healthy)
Food storage
(Be Healthy)
Partnership with parents/carers(Make a positive contribution)
Community Development
(Make a positive contribution)
Parents Carers steering group (Make a positive contribution)
Late child collection policy
(Stay Safe)
Complaints procedure
(Make a positive contribution)
Encouraging good behaviour (Enjoy and achieve)
Staff training
(Stay Safe)
Students and volunteers
(Stay safe)
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Enabling Environments
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Physical Environment
Equipment / Books
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(Stay Safe)
(Stay Safe)
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Learning and Development
(positive contribution)
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Learning and development
(Enjoy and achieve)
Early Years Foundation Stage (Enjoy and achieve)
Observations and Assessments (Enjoy and achieve)
Observations
(Enjoy and achieve)
Assessment
(Enjoy and achieve)
Displays
(Enjoy and achieve)
Listening to children policy
(Enjoy and achieve)
Outdoor Play Policy
(Be Healthy)
Outings Policy
(Stay Safe)
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Welfare requirements
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Staff qualifications /experience(Stay Safe)
Police Checks
(Stay Safe)
Children under two
(Enjoy and achieve)
Sleeping Arrangements
(Be Healthy)
Nappy changing
(Enjoy and achieve)
Bottle Feeds
(Enjoy and achieve)
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Organisation
Documentation
Informing Ofsted
Staff Ratios
Registers
No smoking
Working Tax Credit
Staff Co-ordinating Roles
Appendix B – Confidentiality
Appendix C – Whistleblowing
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(Stay Safe)
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(Stay Safe)
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(Stay Safe)
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(Achieve economic well-being)Page 78
(Be Healthy)
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(Achieve economic well-being)Page 79
(Make a positive contribution) Page 80
(Stay Safe)
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(Stay Safe)
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Unique Child
Equality and Diversity
The Star Day Care Centre actively promotes equality of opportunity and antidiscriminatory practice for all children and families
Children of all cultures, religions, linguistic backgrounds and abilities are
treated as individuals with equal concern, in order that they should feel
equally valued. All staff work to encourage each child’s self esteem and
respect for others.
The Star Day Care Centre is open to all children regardless of their sex,
disability, religion, nationality, ethnic or national origins. Any publicity will state
our commitment to Equal Opportunities and promote positive images of
those groups in the community who suffer discrimination.
We promote the positive values of diverse cultural identities through anti-racist
activities and resources.
We recognise that the involvement of parents/carers in the development and
monitoring of our Equality & Diversity policy is vital to its success.
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Working towards Equality of Opportunity and Social Justice
Statement of Intent
We are working towards being aware of our own prejudices and lack of
knowledge in the areas of race, class, religion, culture, gender and disability.
We aim to provide a welcoming and caring environment which promotes
and reflects cultural and social diversity and is equally accessible to all.
We will endeavour to challenge any offensive behaviour or language with
regards to race, class, religion, culture, gender and disability.
Complaints and challenges regarding our anti bias practice will be seen as a
positive part of the settings development towards being an equal opportunity
Nursery.
Staff are committed to:
Ensure that the The Star Day Care Centre provides a welcoming
environment to all users and visitors
Ensure each child, parent and staff member know that they are valued,
and that their background (race, culture and religion) is understood,
respected and reflected
Challenge all oppressive behaviour and language with staff,
parents/carers, children and visitors
Encourage positive role models displayed through toys, imaginative
play, resources and materials that promote non stereotyped images. Books
will also be selected that promote and encourage such images
All children will be encouraged to access all the areas of learning and
participate in all activities; and are planned to reflect all the children
We will ensure that our childcare practice is regularly reviewed in order to
remove those practices which discriminate unfairly on the grounds of gender,
culture, religion or sexuality
We acknowledge that preconceptions relating to culture, gender and
sexuality are abundant within language and we will challenge such
language where appropriate
The Star Day Care Centre has an Equality and Diversity coordinator, the
management ensures that staff receive appropriate training, that the
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Equality and Diversity policy is consistent with current legislation and guidance,
reviewed regularly, understood and actively implemented by all staff and
available to parents/carers.
All services will be delivered in line with the statutory requirements of the Race
Relations Act 1976, Sex Discrimination Act 1975, Disability Discrimination Act
1995, Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000, the Special Educational Needs
and Disability Act 2001 and the Disability Discrimination Act.
We will ensure that:
•
all staff, children and their parents/carers are made aware of and
understand The Star Day Care Centre policies and ethos of Equality and
Diversity
•
policies and procedures for consultation and participation are in place
and understood
•
all children have access to the Early Years Foundation Stage and the
activities offered irrespective of race, gender or disability
•
the services offered will support opportunities for staff to recognise
discrimination, seek to address areas of inequality, promote understanding
and awareness
•
all staff positively promote to children and their parents/carers equality
and diversity
•
the workforce reflects the communities we serve
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Admissions policy
We welcome all children and parents, including those with disabilities, but The
Star Day Care Centre places are limited so we need to have a set of criteria
for allocating places.
Places are open to everyone and allocated according to the following
criteria:
1. ‘Children in public care’ for whom The Star Day Care Centre is the most
appropriate local Nursery.
2. Children with disabilities/additional needs or serious medical condition
with supported medical information from their GP or hospital
3. Families who live, work or study within a close proximity to The Star Day
Care Centre
Each place is confirmed in writing and a payment of the first month’s fees is
required by the child’s start date. You will be invoiced separately with a
breakdown of sessions and fees. Payment is made in advance and all
absences must be paid for in full.
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Parental induction procedure and settling in
We offer a flexible settling in period to ensure each individual child feels
secure and confident before their first day at The Star Day Care Centre. All
your child’s needs will be discussed with you and our team on your first visit.
Parents/Carers are asked to spend at least two weeks where possible settling
in their child. This will be a gradual process that reflects the needs of each
child. Each child is treated as an individual, some may need more time (or
less), at the discretion of their ‘key person.’
Typical settling in time plan for The Star Day Care Centre:
First session: This is spent with the Parent/Carer discussing their child’s needs
with the room leader of their home base room. This time is used to discuss our
policies and procedures and individual needs of each child. This time also
allows the child to explore the new environment and meet the team who will
care for them.
Second session: The team will look at whether the child feels comfortable and
confident in their new surroundings and may suggest that the parent/carer
leaves the room for 10 minutes or longer. The parent/Carer is able to stay on
site in our parent waiting area where they will be offered refreshments and
regular feedback to put them at ease.
If further sessions are required, we will gradually encourage the Parent/Carer
to leave their child for longer periods of time until the child feels confident.
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Inclusion
We are aware that some children will have disabilities/additional needs and
are proactive in ensuring that appropriate action can be taken when such a
child is identified or admitted to the provision. Steps are taken to promote the
welfare and development of the child within The Star Day Care Centre in
partnership with parents/carers and other relevant parties
Children with disabilities/additional needs
We are committed to the integration of children with disabilities/additional
needs. Our philosophy is that children with additional needs have the right to
be educated and to develop to their full potential alongside other children.
Everybody stands to gain if all children are allowed to share the same
opportunities and helped to overcome any disadvantages they may face.
Integration will be achieved by assessing each child’s needs in terms of
access and adapting our facilities as appropriate. Some members of staff
have experience of caring for children with special education needs and one
has been identified as the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) –
Christine Smith.
Staff will work together with parents/carers as partners to give day to day
care for the child. Parents/carers will be given support by the staff team.
We will ensure that all children are treated as equals and are encouraged to
participate in every aspect of the Nursery. All children will be involved in the
daily activities eg: outdoor play. When outings are being planned children
with disabilities/additional needs will always be accommodated and
included following a risk assessment.
Wherever possible we will promote positive images of those with
disabilities/additional needs. The setting will follow the Department for
Education and Skills SEN toolkit, with reference to the Code of Practice on
Special Educational Needs, the Special Educational Needs and Disability Act
2001, and the Disability Discrimination Act.
We have a Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) who works
closely with the relevant Area SENCAN (Dot Ives) employed by the local
authority and receives regular training.
When a child with already identified disabilities/additional needs joins The Star
Day Care Centre the SENCO is responsible for ensuring that the key person for
that child is fully aware and informed of their needs, and how best to aid that
child’s development. Key persons receive specialist training to enable them
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to assist the child in all aspects of their care. We work in liaison with a range of
agencies to meet each child’s specific needs, subject to parental permission.
Policy Objectives:
To ensure that all children attending the setting have equal access to
activities that will support and extend their knowledge and experiences in all
areas of learning and development
To identify children with disabilities/additional needs as early as possible
through continuous observation and assessment
To ensure that any child with a disability/additional need has access to
all areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage offer
To keep parents/carers informed and encourage them to work in
partnership with the Nursery
To provide a link between parents/carers and any necessary agencies
eg: Educational Psychologist, Speech Therapist, Health Visitor.
The child’s key person is responsible for maintaining observations, record
keeping and assessments of a child’s progress in all areas of learning and
development. It is also their responsibility to identify any areas of additional
needs and inform the SENCO. The SENCO will work jointly with staff and
parents/carers within the guidelines as specified in the SEN toolkit. The SENCO
will be the link person with the specialist agencies and the contact person for
parents/carers to discuss any concerns about their child’s progress.
Early Identification of Children with Disabilities/Additional Needs
All staff are responsible for identifying children’s needs and supporting their
learning. Any concerns will be discussed with the SENCO in consultation with
the parent/carers.
We have regard to the current DCSF Code of Practice on Special
Educational Needs, and provide the appropriate learning opportunities for all
children. Detailed records of progress are maintained by the key person. A
review will be made at regular intervals by the SENCO in consultation with the
parents/carers, key person and appropriate agencies to ensure progress.
Parents/carers are consulted on a continuous basis and information
exchanged regarding their child’s progress.
The key person will consult with the relevant agencies and draw up an
individual education plan stating:
1
The child’s needs.
2
The duration of the plan.
3
The arrangements for reviewing the child’s progress.
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The plan will be regularly reviewed, and can be followed through at home as
well as at the setting, in accordance with the latest Code of Practice for the
Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs.
Safeguarding children policy
We comply with local safeguarding procedures approved by the local Area
Safeguarding Children Board and ensure that all adults working and looking
after children are able to put the procedures into practice.
We have clear procedures and guidelines that we are required to follow to
safeguard and protect children, based on the Safeguarding Children Board
procedures and the Department of Health booklet ‘What to Do if You’re
Worried A Child Is Being Abused’ (DoH2006) and Working Together to
Safeguard Children – A guide to inter-agency working to safeguard and
promote the welfare of children DCSF 2010.
We also act in accordance with:
 The Children Act 1989,
 The Children Act 2004,
 Disability Discrimination Act 1995
 Equality Act 2010
 Human Rights Act 1998
 Data Protection Act 1998
 Safeguarding vulnerable Groups Act 2006
 UN Convention on the rights of the child
(www.dh.gov.uk/safeguardingchildren/index.htm)
Definition of child: under 18 years of age. This policy and all procedures apply
to all children and young people regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability,
sexuality or religion.
Local authorities have a statutory duty to investigate where they have
‘reasonable’ cause to suspect that a child is suffering, or is likely to suffer
significant harm’. Children’s Services carry these responsibilities on behalf of
the local authority, so The Star Day Care Centre has a duty to report or seek
advice from Children’s Services if we have any concerns about child abuse.
One member of staff is the designated Safeguarding officer – Christine Smith /
Jennifer Wass they will have received Safeguarding children training and are
responsible for liaison with Children’s Services, the Safeguarding Children
Board and OFSTED in any child protection situation.
If the designated person is unavailable, Tracy Lindsell
– Head of Children’s services should be contacted on 07798 894857.
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Concerns
Staff should treat any concerns seriously:
Where there is suspected or actual abuse, report your concern to your
designated member of staff Christine Smith/Jennifer Wass without delay. This
includes any allegation about a staff member. If your designated member of
staff Christine Smith/Jennifer Wass is not available then ring Tracy Lindsell –
Head of Children’s Services on 07798 894857
Trust your own professional judgment: if you are concerned about a child,
other professionals will almost certainly be concerned.
Report earlier rather than later: most serious incidents of child abuse started
with comparatively minor incidents that were not noticed or not reported.
Reassure and comfort the child concerned
If we have evidence that leads us to suspect a child at the Nursery is at risk of
potential or significant harm the procedure states the following:-
Immediate Action
All suspicions and allegations of child abuse MUST be immediately referred by
the designated person Christine Smith/ Jennifer Wass on the following number:
01642 527764. They will also advise you as to other professionals who will be
likely to be involved in each case.
We work with parents/carers in partnership whenever possible, however child
protection issues will take precedence over working in partnership as the
interests of the child are paramount.
Depending on the nature and extent of concern Children’s Services has the
legal duty and responsibility in all these matters to decide whether they are to
investigate further.
Staff Training
As part of their induction staff will complete the Essex/London Safeguarding
Children’s Board on-line level 1 Safeguarding Training. This must be completed
within 2 weeks of their start date. They will also be booked onto Level
2/Foundation level Safeguarding Training. The designated Person will receive
level 3 safeguarding training. Training is updated every 2 years.
Every member of staff receives a Safeguarding induction record. This is to be
completed with their line manager, throughout the first 6 months of their
employment.
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We work to safeguard children by:
 sharing information about safeguarding and good practice with
children, parents/carers and carers, and staff
 sharing information about concerns with agencies who need to know,
and involving parents/carers and children appropriately
 following careful procedures for recruitment of staff, including
enhanced CRB checks
 providing effective staff training, supervision and management
 providing a code of conduct for all staff, volunteers and students to
adhere to
 a clear compliments and complaints policy
 clear record keeping in line with Data Protection
As the manager or designated staff member, when concerns are brought to
your attention you should:
 Maintain full factual records which must be kept confidential (in a
sealed envelope, locked in a drawer or filing cabinet), dated, and
signed.
 Ensure the records are accurate, complete and include:
 any injuries/concerns/issues observed.
 the alleged abuse
 the explanations offered
 messages received and given, by whom, dated and in what
circumstances.
 child’s full details
 family details
 Make any referrals needed following the agreed referral procedure
 Ensure that concerns are kept confidential, following the guidelines in
‘What to Do if You’re Worried A Child Is Being Abused (2006)’
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Allegations against adults
Allegations against adults include staff, volunteers, students, users and parents.
No staff, volunteers, students, users or parents may be left on their own with
children other than their own, for their own protection and that of children
and young people attending. There should be 2 adults present at all times
with children and young people. If in an extreme case or emergency, it is
necessary that a child or young person is left on their own with a member of
staff please refer to the Lone Working policy for guidance.
If an allegation is made against an adult, including staff, volunteers, students,
users or parents, the designated person must be informed immediately. The
designated person will then inform their Area Manager, who will inform the
Head of Children’s Services, Tracy Lindsell, who will inform the Deputy Director
of Internal Affairs, Charles Ellis, immediately. Ofsted will also be informed by
the Head of Children’s Services.
If an allegation is made against the designated person, it must be reported
directly to the Area Manager and Head of Children’s Services, Tracy Lindsell
(nurseries, out of school clubs and children’s centres.
All Allegations
All allegations of abuse, and safeguarding concerns, will be reported to the
4Children Safeguarding Board by the Head of Children’s Services.
If an allegation is made against the Early Years and Childcare Manager or
delegate, then another member of the team must report it directly to the
local Children’s Services office. Tracy Lindsell – Head of Children’s Services on
07798 894857.
Staff are immediately suspended pending further investigation following
statutory procedures and an internal investigation will run parallel with any
investigation. The Local Authority Designated Officer can be contacted on
local LADO Number for advice in these matters. (LADO)
The Early Years and Childcare Manager is responsible for ensuring that:
•
there is a designated member of staff who has attended a
safeguarding children training course and is responsible for liaison with child
protection agencies in any child protection situation at (NAME) Day Nursery.
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•
all staff receive induction into the Safeguarding Children Policy within
their first week and are able to implement the policies and procedures
•
OFSTED is informed of any allegations of abuse by a member of staff or
volunteer or any abuse which is alleged to have taken place on the premises
Review of Policy
We are committed to reviewing the child protection policy and practice
annually; however it will be reviewed earlier if there are changes to legislation
and guidance. All updates to polices are shared with staff, volunteers and
students.
All parents/carers, staff, volunteers and students will be informed of our
policies by:
A clear safeguarding statement displayed prominently within the
nursery
Each person being made aware of where the policies are kept
A copy of the safeguarding statement in Parent Packs
The policy is shared with parents/carers when their child first attends the
setting.
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Local Children’s Services & police contact names and telephone numbers:
Local safeguarding team & referral team – 527764
Out of Hours – 08702 402994
Local Safeguarding Children Board contact details – 01642 527764
Local police team (Stockton) – 01642 607114
NSPCC helpline: 0808 800 5000
Childline: 0800 1111
LADO – Connie Oneill – 01642 527413
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Data and Image Retention and Use
4Children takes the retention and use of personal data and images, both
children, parents and families, extremely seriously as a matter of both legal
and moral importance. This policy aims to minimise the risk of inappropriate
use and distribution of personal data and images relating to those that use the
Nurseries and Extended Childcare Services.. All staff will be familiarised with
the provisions contained within the policy as part of their induction and be
expected to act in accordance with them at all times.
4Children are aware of their obligations with regard to the storing and sharing
of information under the Data Protection Act 1998, and is committed to
complying with its regulations and guidance. The Early Years and Childcare
Manager, Play Leaders and staff are aware of the implications of the Data
Protection Act 1998 in so far as it affects their roles and responsibilities within
the provision.
Information on the Act can be found at http://www.ico.gov.uk/.
This policy aims to minimise the risk of inappropriate use and distribution of
personal data relating to those children, parents and families that use
Children’s Centres.
Definitions
The following definitions will be used:
Personal data:
General Information relating to Parents / Carers and Children that access
services at 4Children Childcare Provisions. Personal data is information which
relates to living individuals and by which that individual can be identified.
Personal information, for the purpose of this policy also includes photographic
images (see below).
Sensitive information:
Some information initially collected may include sensitive personal data.
Information that is collected and used by Childcare Provisions that falls into
this category includes:




Ethnic origin
Employment status
Details of any special health issues (including a special educational
needs or physical disability statement)
Appropriate records of children’s progress and achievements.
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
Any other information relating to the child, deemed by staff or parents /
carers, to be relevant and significant
Staff & Childcare Information
Details relating to Childcare employees are also kept on record, in addition to,
up to date records of all the staff, partners and volunteers who work at the
centre, including their name, their position, the organisation for whom they
work and Criminal Records Bureau check.
Other information (such as Personal Development Plans for internal staff),
accrued during their time spent working at the Childcare Provision, will also
be stored in accordance with this policy.
Additionally, the following records and information will be stored and
maintained by the Childcare Provision;
 The daily staff attendance registers and visitors logs;
 Records of the activities planned and implemented, including any offsite visits and outings;
 A record of the risk assessments on buildings, sessions, activities and
outreach visits clearly stating, when they were carried out, by whom,
date of review, and any action following;
 Inventory Records of all equipment owned or used by the provision
including safety checks and repairs carried out, (in accordance with
the Equipment & Resources policy POL009);
 Completed Accident and Incident forms
Data & Image Management & Processing
4Children is committed to the policy of openness with parents and carers in
respect to this policy and its provisions, and to the information that the
organisation holds regarding them and their child(ren).
In the spirit of the Information Commissioner’s Office’s principle of ‘Fair
Processing’ and under Schedule 2 of The Act, we only collect personal
information for which there is a legitimate use and does not use the
information in any way that has unjustifiable adverse effects upon the
individuals concerned or use the data in any way that is unlawful. We expect
all of our staff to be open and honest about the intended use of the
information we collect and handle the information in ways that they would
reasonably expect.
4Children have an accessible Fair Processing Notice available to all parents
and carers and takes the form of a statement issued to parents as a part of
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the process for collecting information, particularly, but not exclusively, when
completing Children Centre Registration forms.
Information Requests:
Records and information will be made available to parents and carers on
written request unless this is subject to any exemptions. Exemptions would
include where the sharing of an individual’s information compromises the
integrity of information held on a third party who can be identified from that
information. If for any reason a request for access to information is refused,
the decision, including a full explanation of the reasons for the refusal, will be
communicated, in writing, to the parents or carers concerned within ten
working days.
Data Cleansing:
Early Year and Childcare Managers & Play Leaders have overall responsibility
for the maintenance and updating families’ records and ensuring that these
are accurate.
Retention period:
All required records relating to individual children are maintained and
retained for three years after children last attended the Childcare Provision.
This does not apply to the retention of photographic images, which should be
kept for no longer than 12 months (see ‘Photographs and Digital
Photographic Images’ below).
Record Keeping:
Ordinarily, information kept on a child and parent / carer will include:
 Birth name (along with any other name the child is known by).
 Date of birth
 Gender
 Ethnic origin
 Languages spoken
 Home address and telephone number(s)
 Parents and carers names and addresses
 Pregnancy status
 Family doctor’s name, address and telephone number
 Health visitor or G.P.s name
 Employment status
 Details of any special health issues (including a special educational
needs or physical disability statement)
 Appropriate records of children’s progress and achievements.
 Any other information relating to the child deemed by staff or parents /
carers to be relevant and significant
Data & Image Security:
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Information and records held on children, including the family case files, will
be kept in a secure locked location.
Restricted documents should not be taken from the Childcare Provision
without agreement for transport and storage. They must not be left
unattended in cars or opened on public transport. If it is necessary to take
them home due to not returning to the Childcare Provision, storage at home
should be secure and away from other household members.
All paper based files containing personal and or sensitive information that
have exceeded their retention period should be shredded on site.
All electronic personal and / or sensitive information including still and moving
images will be held on a password protected hard drive. No other storage
device will be permitted including desk top and lap top computers. When
not in use, the external hard drive must be stored in a safe or locked cabinet
or cupboard. The external hard drive must not leave the Childcare premises.
Images will be stored directly to the drive and immediately deleted from the
device that captured or recorded it originally.
Notification of Changes:
4Children recognise their responsibilities in keeping children, parents / carers
and staff informed of any changes to the running or management of its
Provisions that will directly affect them.
Wherever possible, if changes are to be made affected parties will be given
as much warning as possible. In the case of proposed changes that are of
considerable scope or importance, the Childcare Provision will facilitate
consultation with the affected groups or individuals.
Confidentiality
4Children staff, volunteers and any other individual associated with the
running or management of the Childcare provision will respect confidentiality
by:
 Not discussing confidential matters about children with other
parents/carers.
 Not discussing confidential matters about parents/carers with children
or other parents/carers.
 Not discussing confidential information about other staff members.
 Only passing sensitive information, in written or oral form, to relevant
people in line with the Information Sharing Policy.
In circumstances where staff have good reason to believe that a child is at
risk, or is likely to be at risk, of child abuse or neglect, the Safeguarding
Children / Child Protection policy will override confidentiality on a ‘need to
know’ basis.
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Staff failing to show due regard for confidentiality will be liable to disciplinary
action under the provisions of the Staff Disciplinary & Grievance Procedures
policy.
Still and Moving Images
Still and moving images (i.e. photographs and video footage) within the
Childcare Provision will only be taken by 4Children staff and only following
formal written parental consent of the child/ren being photographed.
It is likely that there will be occasions during a child’s time at the Childcare
Provisionwhen staff may wish to photograph or video children as part of the
Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) observation or to record an achievement
to show their parent / carer.
The Childcare Provision will not use the personal details or full name (first name
and/or surname) of any child in a photographic image on its website or in
any other printed material without consent. Generally, images of children will
not have an accompanying name in the text or caption; if a name is used in
the text, the Childcare Provision will not use an image of that individual unless
specific permission has been granted. No images of children will be released
to press or media contacts without the relevant written parental consent.
If permission is granted for parents to take photographs or record video
footage, during trips / outings, parents must only take images (still or moving)
of their own children and may not take images of other children unless they
have permission from those parents.
Parents, staff or visitors who suspect anyone of taking images of children
without consent must report the incident immediately to the Early Year s and
Childcare Manager, Play Leader or in their absence the first available staff
member.
Still and moving images within the Childcare Provision will only ever be taken
by staff using designated devises, which are kept on site at all times, and only
having gained the formal consent, in writing, from the parent or carer of the
child/ren.
All staff are prohibited from using personal electronic devices, including
mobile phones, for the purposes of capturing and storing still or moving
images, at any time during work activities (both onsite or during trips/outings).
Mobile phones must be stored in a designated locker and must not to
accessed whilst children are present in the provision.
No photographs of children will be released to press or media contacts or
used in any 4Children marketing, externally or internally, without having
gained the formal consent, in writing, from the parent or carer of the child/ren
being photographed.
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All formal, written consents relating to the use of photographic images of
children will be filed at the Children’s Centre for the life of the image or
images to which it relates.
Photographic Displays:
Childcare Provisions will not use the personal details or full name (first name
and/or surname) of any child in an image on its display, website or in any
other printed material without having gained the formal consent, in writing,
from the parent or carer of the child(ren).
Where the images are used in mounted displays, either at the Children’s
Centre or elsewhere, reference to the written consent to display the image(s)
must be clearly indicated on the reverse of the image.
Other legislation informing this policy:
The Children Act 1989
The Children Act 2000
Local Government Act 2000
Crime and Disorder Act 1998
Freedom of Information Act 2000
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CONSENT
Research and experience has shown that keeping children safe from harm
requires professionals to share information. However, such information sharing
must take place within a framework of both common and statue law.
The Common law duty of confidence requires that personal information kept
by professionals and agencies should not be disclosed without the consent of
the subject unless disclosure is necessary to safeguard a child. Disclosure
should be justified in each case.
The Data Protection Act 1998 requires that information is kept secure and only
disclosed without the consent of the subject in certain conditions which
include the prevention or detection of a crime.
The Human Rights Act 1998 includes the right to respect for private and family
life and an infringement of this right is only acceptable in certain
circumstances of which is the prevention of the rights and freedoms of others.
As a result of the above legislation, professionals should only share information
without the consent of parent/carers if permission seeking would place the
child at risk of significant harm.
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WORKING WITH CHILDREN & FAMILIES:
The Star Day Care Centre will ensure that at first contact families will be made
aware that The Star Day Care Centre has a safeguarding children policy to
protect all children from harm and is therefore required by law to inform the
local safeguarding Children Board and Social Care of any suspicion of abuse.
At all times during the process of safeguarding children, practice should
involve minimising distress to the child and ensuring that families are treated
with sensitivity and respect. Parents/carers require support, and asking for
help should be seen as a sign of responsibility rather than parenting failure.
Parents/carers and carers should be kept fully informed at all times, unless to
do so would jeopardise the safety and welfare of the child. It is important to
remember that the child and family may require continuing support and
services and, as far as possible, professionals should work in a way which will
promote a constructive working relationship with the family in the future.
Anybody who believes that a child is suffering significant harm should always
refer their concerns to Children’s services: The definitions of child abuse in
“Working Together to Safeguard Children” is set out as follows and may help
in deciding whether a referral is needed.
PHYSICAL ABUSE:
Physical abuse may involve hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning or
scalding, drowning, suffocating or other causing harm to a child. Physical
harm may also be caused when a parent or carer feigns the symptoms of, or
deliberately causes ill health to a child whom they are looking after. This
situation is commonly described as “fabricated or induced illness”
EMOTIONAL ABUSE:
Emotional abuse is the persistent emotional ill treatment of a child such as to
cause severe and persistent adverse effects on the child’s emotional
development. It may mean conveying to children that they are worthless, or
unloved, inadequate. It may involve causing children frequently to feel
frightened or in danger, or the exploitation or corruption of children. Some
level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of ill treatment of a child,
though it may occur alone.
SEXUAL ABUSE:
Sexual abuse involves forcing or enticing a child or young person to take part
in sexual activities, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening. The
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activities may involve physical contact, including penetration (e.g. Rape and
buggery) or non – penetrative acts. They may include non-contact activities,
such as involving children in looking at, or in the production of sexual images
or watching sexual activities, or encouraging children to behave in sexually
inappropriate ways.
NEGLECT:
Neglect is the persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical and/or
psychological needs, likely to result in the serious impairment of the child’s
health or development. It may involve a parent carer failing to provide
adequate food, shelter and clothing, failing to protect a child from physical
harm or danger, or the failure to ensure access to appropriate medical care
or treatment. It may also include neglect of, or unresponsiveness to a child’s
basic emotional needs.
However, if there are any doubts you must raise this with the Early Years and
Childcare Manager.
Safe Recruitment - Police Checks for Staff and Volunteers
All partners must ensure that all staff or volunteers who are employed or
recruited have been selected and vetted appropriately. All staff and
volunteers are required to complete a CRB form and should receive
clearance at an enhanced level before they are allowed to have any
unsupervised access to children. This form should be checked and the details
confirmed. A note of the registered number and date of issue should be
made so this is on your records.
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CONFIDENTIALITY
Principles
Parents/carers/carers/staff have the right to trust that information given to The
Star Day Care Centre staff is given in confidence and will be used only for the
purposes for which it was given and will not be released without their consent.
The Star Day Care Centre recognises the right of users to have information
about them held in private and secure files.
Parents/carers/carers will have access to their own files at all times
Parent/user confidentiality includes:
•
discussing confidential matters about children with other
parents/carers/staff
•
discussing confidential matters about parents/carers/carers with other
service users and employees
Staff confidentiality:
Personal information about members of staff must be regarded as
confidential at all times. This includes information such as:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
staff sickness
HIV or related illness status
Current or previous disciplinary procedures
Employment references
Personal living arrangements such as family life and sexuality
Address and home telephone number
Any other information that has been given in confidence
If, however, a child is considered to be at risk our safeguarding children
policy will override confidentiality on a ‘need to know’ basis.
Appendix B – please see P78 for confidentiality agreement
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Keeping safe
We take positive steps to promote safety within the setting and on outings
and ensure proper precautions are taken to prevent accidents
Health and Safety Policy
General
The Star Day Care Centre recognises its responsibilities under the Health and
Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HASAWA) to ensure that arrangements are in
place to secure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and
welfare of the children, parent(s)carer(s), staff and others using or visiting the
premises or participating in nursery sponsored activities. We also hold public
liability insurance.
The Early Years and Childcare Manager, Christine Smith, and staff identify
hazards and where these cannot be removed ensure that they are
adequately controlled.
Responsibilities
The Management
The responsibility for ensuring that health and safety procedures within The
Star Day Care Centre are adequate rests with the Management. The
Management will ensure that all necessary procedures are devised,
implemented, monitored and reviewed to ensure compliance with these
procedures and that they remain appropriate. In particular to:


make arrangements to ensure that The Star Day Care Centre complies
with all relevant legislation particularly the HASAWA and the
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations
have in place procedures to identify hazards and evaluate risk control
measures
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



create a management structure and periodically monitor its
effectiveness
ensure a manager attends any health and safety briefings and or
training as required
have health and safety on the agenda at Senior Management team
meetings
ensure the Early Years and Childcare Manager, as the Key Manager for
health and safety, carries out the appropriate responsibilities
The Management will provide, in co-operation with the local authority where
responsibilities for buildings and plant are shared: 








a safe environment for the children, parent(s)carer(s), staff, visitors and
other users of the Nursery
plant, equipment and systems that are safe
safe arrangements for transportation, storage and use of articles and
substances
safe and healthy conditions that take account of
statutory requirements
Approved Codes of Practice
DCSF or Local Authority guidance
adequate information, instruction, training and supervision
provision of all necessary safety and protective equipment
Early Years and Childcare Manager
The Early Years and Childcare Manager is responsible for the day to day
running of the Nursery and putting health and safety policy into effect.
The Early Years and Childcare Manager will assist in the development and
maintenance of safe conditions for staff, the children, parent(s)carer(s),
visitors and anyone else using The Star Day Care Centre. The Early Years and
Childcare Manager will in particular: •
be satisfied that effective arrangements are in place to ensure the
health, safety and welfare of all users of the Nursery
•
ensure that quarterly health and safety inspections are carried out
•
arrange for risk assessments to be carried out by a competent person
and signed and dated
•
put into effect any remedial measures or refer as necessary to the
Management
•
consult with members of staff on health and safety matters particularly
any accredited staff safety representative.
•
attend health and safety briefings and training as required
•
report regularly on health and safety matters to the Management.
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•
ensure contractors on site follow safe working practices.
Other Duty Holders
All members of the Senior Management Team and Deputy Nursery Manager
and Early Educators
All members of the SMT plus the Deputy Nursery Manager and others holding
posts of responsibility will familiarise themselves with all safety legislation,
codes of practice and guidance relevant to their area of responsibility.
As part of their day to day responsibility they will ensure that: •
safe working methods are in place
•
supervision is adequate and training needs met
•
termly safety inspections are carried out
•
safety requirements for plant machinery and equipment are in place
and are adequate
•
appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is available, in good
condition and being used correctly
•
any hazardous substances are correctly used and safely stored
•
standards of health and safety are monitored and appropriate
remedial action is taken where required
Children’s Centre Manager
The Children’s Centre Manager, has particular responsibility for security and
Nursery related issues and will: •
co-operate with the Senior Management team to ensure that they
effectively monitor the condition of the Nursery
•
report defects so that appropriate remedial action can be taken
•
regularly test the fire alarm system and record findings
All Staff
Members of staff also have health and safety responsibilities. Staff will
therefore be required to: •
take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of
anyone else
•
co-operate with all health and safety arrangements.
•
report any defect or other health and safety matter that they are
aware of.
•
use correct equipment, tools and safety and protective issue.
All staff complete an induction in Health and Safety policies during their first
week of employment, and receive regular training in health and safety
requirements.
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Other Nursery Users
Any hirers of the public spaces in The Star Day Care Centre have the
responsibility to ensure that they use it correctly. The Management recognises
its duties as controller of The Star Day Care Centre and will ensure that: •
spaces hired are in a safe condition for the purpose of hire
•
arrangements for emergency evacuation are adequate
•
fire-fighting equipment is in place and in operational condition
•
insurance requirements are met. We hold public liability insurance
Contractors
Contractors have a legal responsibility to ensure that they carry out their work
in a manner that ensures, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health,
safety and welfare of themselves and anyone else who may be affected by
their acts or omissions. They will, as visitors to the Nursery be entitled not to be
put at risk by circumstances relating to the Nursery that are outside their
control. The Director will therefore ensure that where contractors are
appointed directly by the Nursery :•
contract meetings are held to agree health and safety measures prior
to works commencing and during the project
•
contractors are advised of any health and safety related issues or
circumstances that may adversely affect their health and safety whilst on the
Nursery site.
Communication
All staff are made aware of communication channels within the Nursery for
health and safety. The Early Years and Childcare Manager, will ensure that all
health and safety guidance and advice is kept together in the safety file in a
place that is easily accessible to all staff. All such advice is communicated to
staff where relevant and incorporated into the Nursery’s procedures.
Staff Consultation
The Management and Early Years and Childcare Manager, recognise the
valuable contribution to health and safety that can be made from all staff,
particularly staff safety representatives.
Risk Assessments
The Early Years and Childcare Manager, will ensure that risk assessments as
required under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations
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and the Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations are carried out daily for the
Nursery’s activities and operations and for Nursery related issues. The
assessments will be used to identify health and safety hazards and ensure that
where they cannot be eliminated the associated risks are reduced or
otherwise adequately controlled.
Fire Precautions
Checklists are in place to ensure all fire exits are kept clear and unlocked. All
staff are required to participate in fire safety training and are aware of all fire
procedures.
Procedures
Procedures in the event of fire will be prepared and circulated to all staff. Fire
risk assessment is a requirement under the Fire Precautions (Workplace)
Regulations 1999. Notices giving instructions in the event of fire are displayed
by all Fire Alarm Call Points and in each home base room. The main fire
evacuation route is indicated by signs.
Fire Drill
A fire drill will be held at least every two months and relevant details recorded
in the Fire Log.
Testing
The Fire Alarm will be tested weekly, using a different call point each time in
rotation, and the findings recorded in the Fire Log.
Accidents, Incidents, Near Misses and Dangerous Occurrences
All will be recorded and reported in accordance with The Star Day Care
Centre Policy. The Accident book, Employee Accident Book and Report
forms are kept by the Early Years Childcare Manager in the nursery office, in
the file marked Accidents.
All evacuation procedures will follow the same protocol as a fire procedure.
For any evacuation that requires people to be a set distance from the main
building, a contingency plan will be agreed. For example: a bomb scare or
chemical spill etc
Fire Drills
•
The designated Fire Officer is responsible for arranging fire drills and tests
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•
Fire drill will take place at least every two months at a time notified in
advance to staff
•
Once a year a fire drill will take place without warning
•
The fire alarms will be tested weekly, from a different fire point each
week.
•
Fire extinguishers and fire alarm systems are tested by a properly
authorised firm in accordance with statutory requirements
•
Fire exits are clearly identifiable and will not be obstructed; all fire exits
will be checked daily
Near each fire exit there is a notice explaining the fire procedures
Contingency plan
Cold weather
In the event of severe and adverse weather conditions and the safety of the
staff, parents and children is hindered, we will close the nursery. Parents will be
informed that the nursery is closed by a notice on the main gate. Telephone
contact could also be used. A notification will also be released via local radio.
Heating failure
In the event that the heating system fails at nursery and the temperature falls
below 16°c we are obliged by law to close the nursery. All parents will be
contacted immediately and asked to collect their child/ren as soon as
possible.
Major building damage
In the event of major building damage we will evacuate the building as
stated in evacuation policy/procedure. We will contact parents immediately
to collect their children as soon as possible.
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The Star Day Care Centre
Health and Safety Policy and Arrangements
Signed by The Star Day Care Centre Health and Safety Officer:
……………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………..
Date of Signing..............................................................…..
Date to be reviewed.......................................…….....
Signed (When Reviewed)
Date of Signing....................................................….........
Date for next review...........................................................
Signed (When Reviewed)
Date of Signing................................................................
Date for next review...........................................................
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Please continue on separate sheet. A copy of the above can be used for
further review purposes.
Visitors
Visitors are welcome. It is our duty to safeguard and promote the safety of the
children in our care. We achieve this through a number of policies:
•
The main entrance door to The Star Day Care Centre is controlled by
the Reception. All visitors are checked in at reception. The entrance doors to
the Childcare areas are kept locked at all times. Fire exits are unlocked but
can be opened from the inside only.
•
Prospective parents/carers who arrive at The Star Day Care Centre
without an appointment are extended every courtesy and given an informal
tour if it is convenient for Childcare staff. An appointment will be made if it is
not convenient to view the Nursery. If too many prospective parents/carers
arrive at one time, again appointments will be made.
•
At no time will a visitor be allowed unsupervised access to the children.
•
The Star Day Care Centre holds a list of people who are authorised to
collect each child. Under no circumstances can children leave the premises
with any other person unless prior arrangements have been made and the
manager has knowledge of this
•
Non Nursery staff should also be asked to show ID upon arrival and sign
the visitors book
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Intruder policy
The Star Day Care Centre believes that the safety of the children and staff in
our care is of paramount importance. We make every effort to keep our
nursery secure from intruders.
The aim of this policy is to inform staff, parents/carers and visitors of the
procedures to take in the event of an intruder being identified on the
premises.
The main entrance to the centre is controlled through reception. Any visitors
to the centre must report to reception before they can gain access through
the swipe card entrance. These doors are kept shut at all times. If reception is
unmanned there is a buzzer system which links to the nursery. The visitor must
identify who they are and what their business is before they can gain access.
Intruder who may pose a safety hazard
DO NOT LET THE INTRUDER ENTER THE BUILDING UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES
After identifying that the person in question does not have a legitimate
reason to be on the centre site, the Early Years and Childcare Manager,
Deputy Early Years and Childcare Manager or a Room Leader in their
absence, must politely ask the intruder to leave. This must be from the safety
of the reception office. If the intruder leaves inform the police giving an
accurate description. Head office 0207 512 2112 option 9 and Tracy Lindsell –
Head of Children Services on 01621 827850 must also be informed as soon as
possible after the incident.
If the intruder appears agitated, irrational or refuses to leave in a peaceful
manner, and ask a colleague to telephone the police and inform them we
have an intruder on site who refuses to leave.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO PHYSICALLY DETAIN OR RESTRAIN THE PERSON EVEN IF
THEY ATTEMPT TO LEAVE BEFORE THE POLICE ARRIVE.
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Simply inform the police the intruder has left when they arrive and the
direction the intruder left in. Try to give an accurate description as possible of
the intruder.
DO NOT LET ANYONE ENTER OR LEAVE THE BUILDING UNTIL THE INTRUDER HAS
BEEN DETAINED BY THE POLICE.
If the individual stays until the police arrive, inform the officers what has
happened that led to the individual being with you so they can establish
probable cause for trespassing.
Review security procedures and log incident and actions as soon as possible.
Intruder who is armed or otherwise poses a safety hazard
Alert all staff members
Contact the police immediately and give as much information as possible:
•
Location of intruder, a physical and clothing description and the
weapon(s) involved
•
Advise the operator what you are doing to ensure the safety of the
children and other staff members
•
Remain on the line until the operator advises you to hang up
•
Monitor the location of the intruder until the police arrive
Inform a colleague to telephone Minerva Children Services on 01621 827850
informing them that there is an intruder.
If any parents are due to arrive at the nursery to pick their child up we will
endeavour to contact them and warn them of the situation.
Staff must ensure that all children are inside the nursery building.
Be prepared to keep media, parents and other community members out of
the nursery. The police will secure the building.
Ensure that all staff and children remain in their designated area/room with
the children unless otherwise directed by the police.
REMEMBER TO REMAIN CALM AT ALL TIMES AND REASSURE THE CHILDREN.
In any event there will be a thorough investigation of the incident, and a
report will be made by all staff involved.
Inform Ofsted and the children’s parents of the incident and the subsequent
investigation, with due regard to the confidentiality policy.
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LOST CHILD
In the unlikely event of a child going missing within/from The Star Day Care
Centre the following procedure will be implemented immediately:
All staff present will be informed and an immediate thorough search of the
Nursery will be made followed by a search of the surrounding area, ensuring
that all other children remain supervised throughout
A staff member will notify the person in charge, whilst other staff continue
searching
The person in charge will carry out a second search of the area
If the child has still not been accounted for the person in charge will contact
the police
The person in charge will also contact the parents/carers of the missing child
During this period, staff will be continually searching for the missing child, whilst
other staff maintain as near to normal routine as possible for the rest of the
children in the Nursery.
The person in charge will meet the police and parents/carers
The person in charge will then await instructions from the police
Any incidents must be recorded in writing
Head of Children Services, Tracy Lindsell on 01621 827850 must be contacted
and informed of any incidents.
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Lost child – outings
1
Regular head counts are carried out on children throughout the outing.
In the unlikely event of a child going missing whilst on an outing the following
procedure will be implemented immediately
2
All staff present will be informed and an immediate thorough search of
the area will be made, ensuring that all other children remain supervised
throughout
3
If appropriate, on-site security will also be informed and a description of
the child/children given
4
In the event of a child not being found, the designated person in
charge will immediately inform the police
5
The designated person in charge will then inform the Nursery Office
who will contact the child’s parents/carers giving details of what has
happened
6
Staff from the Nursery will be sent to assist the safe return of the other
children
7
At least one member of staff will remain at the scene whilst others return
to the Nursery with the children. This member of staff will continue searching
for the child/children
8
The remaining member of staff will meet the police and parents/carers
when they arrive at a designated point
9
Head of Children Services, Tracy Lindsell on 01621 827850 must be
contacted and informed of any incidents
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Health and well-being
The Star Day Care Centre promotes the good health of children and takes
positive steps to prevent the spread of infection and appropriate measures
when they are ill
Unwell children
The welfare and health of the children is our primary consideration, so we
believe it is in the child’s best interests to be at home if they are unwell. It is the
role of the Early Years and Childcare manager and/or Deputy Nursery
Manager to ensure that no child is admitted to The Star Day Care Centre
suffering from an illness that requires exclusion.
The child’s general health and well-being will be assessed at the preadmission visit using the profile completed by the parent. All staff have
responsibility for constantly assessing the child’s state of well-being and health
through ongoing monitoring and observation. Should a child become unwell,
staff will undertake the following procedures:
•
We will assess and monitor the child’s current health. Senior staff should
be alerted if the child has a high temperature, vomiting, or signs of distress.
The child may themselves tell staff that they are feeling ill, and this should be
listened to and acted upon
•
If necessary, parents/carers are contacted by telephone, to inform
them of their child’s situation, and ask them to come to The Star Day Care
Centre as soon as possible. The member of staff making contact with the
parent/carer should record the fact, including concise details of the
conversation
•
Medicines should not usually be administered unless they have been
prescribed for that child by a doctor, dentist or pharmacist. Non-prescribed
medication e.g. pain and/or fever relief or teething gel may be administered
but only with prior written consent of parent/carer and only when there is a
health reason to do so.
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•
The child should be made as comfortable as possible. Staff should take
care to see that cross-infection to other children is minimised
•
Staff will continue to monitor the child’s symptoms, giving a clear and
concise report to the parents/carers/carer on their arrival at the Nursery
•
Staff will ask parents/carers for an update on the child’s health before
they come back to the Nursery
•
Parents/carers will be informed of any blows to the head sustained by a
child – all head injuries require medical advice
Symptoms and illnesses that require a child’s exclusion can be found in the
Guidance on Communicable Diseases table displayed at the Nursery Office.
Notifiable diseases will be reported to Ofsted as required.
If a child has a notifiable and/or communicable disease confirmed by the
doctor, the Nursery Office should be informed and other parents/carers and
staff notified. The parent may be required to provide a note from the Doctor
or Freedom from Infection certificate before returning. When a child is
considered to be well enough to be at The Star Day Care Centre they are
considered to be well enough to participate in all activities.
FIRST AID
The Star Day Care Centre has at least one employee who is a qualified
paediatric first aider on duty at all times. There are first aid boxes in every
room, kept out of the reach of children. These are clearly identifiable and
checked on a regular basis for adequate supplies by an appointed person.
GENERAL RULES OF FIRST AID
First Aid - The first step in coping with an emergency.
General principle - IF IN DOUBT - DON’T
Minor accidents are dealt with accordingly. First aid is administered in a quiet
area, away from children whose curiosity might lead to distraction from the
main issue. Staff are asked to remain calm, as their distress could be harmful
to the child.
A record is maintained, signed by the parent, of any accident. Staff ensure all
documentation is completed efficiently and in the correct manner. Accident
forms are required by law and all staff are aware of their location and ensure
they are accessible and available along with the First Aid Kit. Any equipment
used from the First Aid Kit is reported and replaced as soon as possible.
For more serious accidents an ambulance will be called immediately. The
child’s parents will then be contacted and can either meet the ambulance
here at the nursery or at the hospital. The child’s key person and the Early
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Years and Childcare manager will accompany the child within the
ambulance.
Important items to take:
•
Child’s registration form
•
Mobile phone
•
Change for the car park / telephone box / bus fare home
Any serious incident will be recorded and signed by the staff involved and the
parents. Any serious incidents, including fatalities are reported in accordance
with RIDDOR and Ofsted guidelines.
APPENDIX A
First Aid
The Certificated First Aiders are:
Christine Smith
Jennifer Wass
Iris Webster
Emma Clare
Katie Pointing
Jordan McVeigh
Samantha Brown
Danielle Pearson
Suzanne Richardson
______________________________________________
The Appointed Person is: Christine Smith & Jennifer Wass
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First Aid Boxes can be found in:
the Nursery Manager’s Office
in each room’s sink area/Toilet
The First Aid Room is located:
Children’s Centre Managers Office
Medicines policy
The Star Day Care Centre will administer prescribed medication such as
antibiotics for long term illness e.g. asthma or sickle cell anaemia. The Star Day
Care Centre will administer non-prescribed medication for pain and/or fever
relief if we have written permission from parent/carers. If your child has been
sick, had diarrhoea or has a raised temperature we will ask you to keep them
at home for 48 hours after their last bout.
Administration of prescribed and non-prescribed medicines:
All prescribed and non-prescribed medicines must be stored in their original
containers, clearly labelled with the child’s name, date and expiry date.
The Star Day Care Centre will store a small amount of Calpol in individual
sachets for emergency care only. Parent/carers will have to give prior
permission before the medication is administered.
Parent/carers should supply the nursery with pain/fever relief if there is a
health reason to do so.
Antibiotics must have been administered by the parent/carer 24 hours before
the child is accepted back into the Nursery.
Parents/carers must sign a consent form at the start of each course of
medicine , and every day during the course, for staff to administer the
prescribed medicines. The key person must administer the medicine with the
Early Years and Childcare Manager or another senior member of staff (Level 3)
in attendance.
Before the medicine is given, the child’s name and dosage on the container
must be checked by another member of staff, as well as the date.
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The time the medicine should be given must be checked and logged in the
medicine book.
The medicine book must be completed and then signed by both members of
staff as soon as the medicine has been administered.
The parent/carer must sign and date the medicine book upon collection of
the child.
Medicines only needing to be administered twice daily will be discouraged
from being administered at The Star Day Care Centre.
Medicines must be stored out of the child’s reach, in a separate container in
the fridge.
The medicine should be administered to the child in such a way that affords
them privacy. The child should be in a settled and relaxed frame of mind
whilst the medicine is being administered.
All medicine must be handed over to the parent/carer to take home at the
end of each day.
Staff must be familiar with the administration of certain medication (e.g.
Nebulisers and inhalers for asthma, Epipens etc). Parents/carers will be asked
to show staff how to use them and so reduce the stress to adult and child.
Protecting children from the sun
Staff ensure all children wear sun hats outside, preferably with a wide brim all
round to protect neck and eyes.
Staff to apply sunscreen to all uncovered areas of skin, if agreed by
parent/carer in the Registration Pack. Sunscreen should be at least SPF 25 and
ideally hypo-allergenic and water resistant.
Children must have sun screen reapplied if they have been playing in water.
Areas of shade are provided.
Drinking water is readily available at all times
Babies under 12 months should be kept out of direct sunlight
Children do not play in the sun between the hours of 11am – 3pm on very hot
days.
Staff need to be aware that ultraviolet rays can still be harmful on breezy or
cloudy days and the above precautions need to be taken.
Parents/carers are asked to bring in sunscreen for their children.
Children’s Rest Needs
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The Star Day Care Centre offers all children the opportunity and choice to rest
at any time during the day. The needs of the child are discussed with the
parents/carers during the initial visits when the Key person and parents/carers
complete the child profile form. As the child progresses there are many
meetings with parents/carers and the child’s Key person where alterations in
the child’s needs can be discussed.
At all times the requests of parents/carers are taken into account and met
whenever possible.
If they wish to rest, we ensure that all children rest on their backs and are
monitored every 10 minutes during their rest period. Children rest with any
comforter they may bring to the setting.
Staff ensure that the room has a calm atmosphere when children are resting
and the appropriate bedding facilities are available.
The length of time the child has slept for is kept on the child’s records and is
reported to his/her parents/carers at the end of each session.
Children will never be forced to rest, but given the opportunity to do so if they
wish.
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Positive Relationships
Key person policy
Children are cared for by their key person during all personal moments of the
day: especially during nappy changes and bathroom times, when babies are
being fed by bottle, and at meal and sleep times, as far as possible. The key
person will be the main point of contact with the child and parents/carers
and will record their key children’s progress.
Aims of the key person system for parents/carers
 To enable the parent/carer to feel confident that they have made the
right decision in placing their baby/child in the children’s centre
 To help the parent/carer know who to ask about their child, and
enable them to receive regular and detailed information about their
child’s progress – reducing, to some extent, their feelings of having ‘lost’
and ‘missed out’ on being with their baby
Aims for the child
 To offer the child a reliable relationship with the key person so that s/he
can sense (at the moment of ‘handing over’) it is approved of by
parent/carer – aiming to reduce any inexplicable (to the child) feelings
of abandonment, in being left in the hands of others
 In receiving personal care (feeding, changing and sleeping) by their
key person whenever possible, the child is assured of regular contact
with her/him on an intimate basis just as s/he is from parent/carer at
home. The aim is to reduce the number of different handlings (touch,
smell, voice) by different people, and so limit the number of people a
child has to get used to during the day
Aims for the key person
 To create meaningful relationships with a consistent group of children
 To reduce stress levels caused by relating equally to large numbers of
children at once
 To enable sensitive observation and developmental record keeping of
a small number of children over a period of time
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
To encourage good relationships with parents/carers of key children
The key person will be assigned before a parent’s initial visit, and spend time
with a new child and their parent/carer during introductory visits, so that they
will get to know each other in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The key person
will find out children’s routines, feeding, sleeping patterns, likes and dislikes
etc., and explain centre policies and procedures (eg. medicine forms etc.).
They will ‘settle in’ their new child, in partnership with their parents/carers, and
review their progress with parents/carers at regular intervals.
Staff are encouraged to ‘pair’ as key person with another member of staff in
their room, so that each half of the pair can act as back-up at the beginning
or end of the day when the key person is not in, to cover key staff sickness
and holidays with each other’s key children, and to act as mutual support.
Every effort is made in a consistent way by senior staff to:
 support the key person through regular supervision as part of the
personal/professional development of each worker

study, in detail, how the physical strain of the day-to-day work required in
lifting babies, furniture, and play equipment can be reduced

ensure that ‘cover’ and support staff, students and others, are fully aware
of the role and responsibilities of the key person toward her/his ‘key’
children

ease the transfer of child (and parent) from one group to another, when
necessary, with mutual understanding and preparation
The Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage states that:
‘Each child must be assigned a key person.’
‘The key person should help the baby or child to become familiar with the
provision and to feel confident and safe within it, developing a genuine bond
with the child (and the child’s parents) and offering a settled, close
relationship.
The key person should meet the needs of each child in their care and
respond sensitively to their feelings, ideas and behaviour, talking to parents to
make sure that each child is being cared for appropriately for each family.1’
The Early Years Foundation Stage Themes and commitments include Positive
Relationships, and within those: Key person (2.4). ‘A key person has special
responsibilities for working with a small group of children, giving them the
reassurance to feel safe and cared for and building relationships with their
parents.’
Based on “People Under Three” by Elinor Goldschmied and Sonia Jackson,
2009
Policy updated 13th September 2009
1
Statutory Framework for the EYFS, 2007, Organisation p37
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Respecting each other
Food and drink
Children are provided with regular drinks and food in adequate quantities for
their needs, including a midday meal and snacks. Fresh drinking water is
available to children at all times throughout the day. Food and drink is
properly prepared, nutritious and complies with dietary and religious
requirements.
Meal times
Mealtimes should be a happy, social occasion for both children and staff. All
meals served are healthy and well balanced. We try to introduce the children
to a variety of tastes reflecting a variety of cultures, and to encourage
healthy eating choices. There is always a vegetarian alternative and special
diets can be catered for, subject to medical approval. Preferences of
parents/carers in relation to healthy eating will be discussed and respected.
Each child’s dietary requirements are ascertained before the child starts
attending the setting. If the child has specific dietary requirements these are
discussed with the parents/carers, the Early Years and Childcare Manager,
and the cook, and menus accordingly for the child. Any specific allergies or
requirements will be displayed on a list on the staff notice board in the kitchen
and relevant room. It is the key person’s responsibility to ensure these lists are
kept up-to-date.
Children and adults wash their hands before lunch or tea (in key groups) and
then sit together in small key groups. Tables are laid with table cloths or mats,
to mark the occasion as different from other uses of the table.
Everything needed for the meal is within reach of staff so that movement of
staff is kept to a minimum during the meal. Staff will where possible eat with
their key children, to set a good example, and for their own enjoyment.
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The older children are encouraged to help set the table, serve themselves, to
encourage independence and help them to make decisions regarding
quantities. The food is served from dishes which are on the table.
Guidelines for Mealtimes
Individual dietary requirements are respected
Staff set an example of good table manners
Cultural differences in eating habits are respected
Children will be encouraged to say ‘Please’ and ‘Thank you’ and to sit at the
table.
Quiet conversation is encouraged
Any child who does not want to eat will have their food removed without any
fuss
Children who are not on special diets will be encouraged to try new foods but
should never be forced to eat them. New foods can be introduced regularly
and it is anticipated that children will become accustomed to the new foods
over a period of time.
Staff set a good example by eating the same food as the children
Children who are slow eaters will be given time and not rushed
The quantity offered will take into account the age of the children
Drinks are offered with the meal and the children should be allowed to
choose when they want them
Children will be encouraged to use a range of eating utensils.
Children will not be forced to eat meals or finish everything on their plate
Children should not have to finish everything on their plate in order to be
offered more food
Children should not have to eat all their dinner in order to be offered a
pudding. Pudding should never be withdrawn because a child misbehaves.
Children should not be told they can have pudding if they are good. Pudding
is not a treat, it is part of the meal and should be offered to all children
Children will be encouraged and allowed to decide for themselves whether
they want to eat all their dinner or not as well as if they want dessert or not.
Children will be encouraged where reasonably possible, to wait until
everybody has finished their first course before starting on their dessert.
Menus will be displayed in the nursery for parents/carers to see.
No child is ever forced to eat food they do not want.
Equally, food will never be withheld as a punishment or offered as a reward.
Parents/carers are encouraged to breast feed at the Nursery, or to bring in
breast milk.
Food served does not contain nuts, to protect children who may be allergic
to nuts.
Staff do not have hot drinks when children are present, to avoid the risk of
scalding children.
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Those responsible for the preparation and handling of food are fully aware of,
and comply with, regulations relating to food safety and hygiene and hold a
current Food Handling Hygiene Certificate.
Parents/carers may celebrate children’s birthdays by bringing in fruit and nonfood items such as balloons, badges, etc. Children will be encouraged to
make their own food on occasions.
The Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage requires
providers to notify Ofsted of any food poisoning affecting two or more
children looked after on the premises.
Food Storage
The Star Day Care Centre employs their own chef within the nursery setting
and our lunch time meals are provided by the in site kitchen.
Dinners are only dished up once the children are ready to eat to ensure that
no food is left out. Once served dinners are immediately taken into each
home base room for consumption. All diets are catered for.
There is one nursery fridge within the nursery rooms, based in the 0-2 room,
which is used solely for The Star Day Care Centre. All food items are correctly
stored in corresponding cupboards and separate shelving in the fridge
ensures all food types are kept separate. Fridge temperatures are recorded
on a daily basis.
The nursery is registered with the Local Authority Environmental Health
Department and a certificate is on display at all times. Staff dealing with
preparation or serving of food have received appropriate training.
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Parents as partners
We work in partnership with parents/carers and carers to meet the needs of
the children, both individually and as a group. Information is shared.
The Star Day Care Centre is committed to encouraging and facilitating the
true involvement of parents/carers in every aspect – from planning and
design to ongoing development and organic growth.
The staff team works with parents/carers as partners in providing high quality
care and learning experiences for their children and ensures that
parents/carers have the opportunity to participate as partners in the care
and education of their children.
The Star Day Care Centre aims to achieve this by:
•
Ensuring that all parents/carers are made to feel welcome at all times.
•
Ensuring that parents/carers are welcome to visit at any time.
•
Ensuring that all parents/carers have access to their child’s records.
•
Ensuring that staff consult with and seek guidance from parents/carers
when planning and implementing policies.
•
Creating opportunities that will encourage parents/carers to work with
their children alongside Nursery staff.
•
Ensuring that parents/carers have the opportunity to review their child’s
progress on a regular basis with the key person.
•
Ensuring that parents/carers are informed of The Star Day Care Centre
policies, procedures and guidelines.
•
Offering parents/carers opportunities to contribute to and participate in
planning, festivals and all events.
•
Ensuring that all parents/carers can meet with staff and other
parents/carers to discuss relevant issues and concerns.
•
Ensuring that meetings are open to all parents/carers.
•
Providing information about activities, policies, complaints procedure
and expectations to all parents/carers.
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Community Development
A programme of activities is co-ordinated, which is flexible enough to
incorporate parents/carers’ wishes and desires as they emerge. Skills
development and training activities will be established in response to
identified needs. Through the programme of organic growth and
development it is expected that parental skills will be developed and
enhanced, becoming an integral part of the planning and management of
the Nursery.
Parents/carers’ Training and Skills Programme
Through ongoing work with parents/carers, specific training and skill-building
programmes are developed in response to needs identified by the
parents/carers. The training programme helps to build parents/carers’
confidence and skills to enable them to participate in the management and
development of The Star Day Care Centre as well as in a range of other
developments in the area. The Star Day Care Centre aims to develop specific
skills and knowledge relating to child development, mutual support initiatives,
volunteering etc.
Childcare Support Package for Participating Parents/carers
A range of childcare options will be available to enable parents/carers to
participate in meetings, events, training programmes and other activities. All
carers used are fully qualified and police checked.
Participative Events Programme for Parents/carers and Children
A series of fun and informative events throughout the year to bring
parents/carers with young children in the area together, using and promoting
local resources, such as the parks.
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Parents/carers’ Steering Group
All parents/carers who have children under five years are eligible to
participate in this Steering Group, which meets bi-monthly.
The centre aims to be inclusive of all communities by:
Ensuring that all parents/carers are made to feel welcome at all times.
Producing publicity and promotional material relevant to the needs of the
local community.
Creating volunteer opportunities for local parents/carers.
Ensuring that training opportunities are open to the local community.
Recognising the needs of local parents/carers in designing training sessions
and workshops.
Providing information about activities, policies, complaints procedure and
expectations to all parents/carers.
Encouraging parents/carers to contribute and participate in events and
promotion of The Star Day Care Centre.
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Late collection of children policy
It is the responsibility of all parents/carers to ensure that their child is collected
at the agreed time by an authorised person over 16 years of age.
A late book is kept at The Star Day Care Centre and action will be taken if a
child is not collected and no prior arrangement has been made.
If a child is not collected at the agreed time, staff will try to contact the
parent/carer by telephone to find out why they are late. If unsuccessful, the
emergency contact will be telephoned and asked to collect.
As a very last resort, if no-one can be contacted to collect the child by 8pm,
Children’s Services will be contacted for advice.
Social Care Out of Hours contact no: 0845 603 7627
Local Police Station Stockton (service desk): 01642 607114
Collection of child
The Nursery Office holds a list of people who are authorised to collect each
child. Under no circumstances can children leave the premises with any
other person unless prior arrangements have been made and the manager
has knowledge of this. This can be either through photographs of intended
people to collect child or the use of a password.
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Compliments and Complaints Policy
If you have a complaint, we wish to:
1
listen and learn;
2
put things right;
3
and improve our service.
If you have cause for complaint regarding the service we provide, you should:
1.
Talk to the key person and room leader for your child to see if the issue
can be resolved.
2.
If you cannot resolve it with the immediate staff member please
contact the Early Years and Childcare Manager, by making an appointment
to see her, or by telephone or in writing. If you require a community
interpreter we will make this service available.
We shall acknowledge receipt of your letter or phone call within 3 days and
will give you a response to your complaint within 10 working days. We shall
explain what we are doing to resolve the issues you have raised if it will take
longer than the 10 days to do this.
3.
If you feel the problem has still not been satisfactorily resolved you
should contact the Early Years and Childcare Area Manager, Rebecca
Seenan on 01621 827865 or R Seenan, Early Years and Childcare Area
Manager, 4Children, Minerva Centre, Burnham Road, Mundon, Essex. CM9
6NP
4.
If you are unhappy after the Early Years and Childcare Area Manager
has given you a response, you should contact 4Children Head of Children’s
Services, Tracy Lindsell, on: 01621 827850 or T Lindsell, Head of Childrens
Services, Minerva Centre, Burnham Road, Mundon, Essex. CM9 6NP
5.
If you are still unhappy after the Head of Services has given you a
response, you can ask for your complaint to be looked into by the Deputy
Chief Executive 4Children, Mr C Ellis at 4Children, 5th Floor City Reach,
Greenwich View Place, London. E14 9NN
6.
As part of the registration process of all early years and play provision
by OFSTED you also have the right to make a complaint to OFSTED. You can
do this by ringing 0300 123 1231 or writing to OFSTED Early Years, Piccadilly
Gate, Store Street, Manchester, M1 2WD.
7.
We will notify you of the outcome of the investigation within 28 days of
having received the complaint.
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We always welcome suggestions, feedback, and compliments too. A
suggestion box is available, and regular questionnaires will be sent out.
Encouraging good behaviour
The attitude and behaviour of all those who work or have contact with
children in the Nursery should be characterised by warmth, respect and
encouragement towards each child and their parents/carers.
Aims and objectives
to help children to develop a sense of caring and respect for one
another
to encourage children to co-operate with each other and respect
each other
to encourage the development of social skills and help children learn
what is acceptable behaviour
to develop children’s confidence and self esteem
to help children to develop self discipline and self esteem in an
atmosphere of mutual respect and encouragement
Staff encourage good behaviour consistently and positively, setting limits for
children and supporting other team members by:
•
Reinforcing ‘good behaviour’ by noticing and praising it
•
Promoting positive behaviour in all children
•
Challenging any unacceptable behaviour
•
Use distraction techniques to defuse a potentially explosive situation
between children to ensure their safety
•
If necessary, discussing a child’s behaviour with their parent/carer to
ascertain if there any underlying issues we may have missed
The safety of other children must not be put at risk
The Early Years and Childcare Manager:
Acts to ensure the safety and welfare of the children in the Nursery
Allocates a member of staff to be with any child whose behaviour is
giving cause for concern
Discusses with parent of the child whose behaviour is giving cause for
concern and offers support to agree an action plan
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Staff are strictly forbidden to administer physical punishment of any sort, such
as smacking, slapping, dragging or shaking a child.
Depriving a child of refreshment or forcing a child to consume refreshment,
teasing, humiliating, scape-goating, frightening or isolating a child is also
strictly forbidden.
If a staff member commits any act of violence, abuse or any of the above on
a child they will be dismissed.
We have a policy of no shouting and of treating each child with fairness and
respect.
There is a named staff member who is responsible for behaviour
management issues, who supports staff and accesses training and specialist
advice if needed.
Adults within the setting are also expected to treat children and each other
with respect, and follow the behaviour policy.
Supporting learning
We provide a range of training opportunities for staff.
In-house training is organised for staff on areas such as Safeguarding Children,
Early Years Foundation stage, health and safety, additional needs, etc. These
are ongoing throughout the year.
All staff are encouraged to be involved in training to continue their
professional development and ensure current knowledge of childcare is
maintained.
One member of staff has particular responsibility for training. Designated
members of staff hold particular responsibilities for safeguarding, equality &
diversity, health and safety, encouraging good behaviour and
Disabilities/Additional Needs, and organise training for all staff in these areas.
Each member of staff has an individual development plan which is kept with
their records, and there is a Nursery Workforce Development Plan that is
reviewed annually.
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Students and volunteers
When we have students and volunteers working with us we have an initial
meeting with them in order to explain their role within the organisation, what
their needs are and how they will be met.
At the initial meeting we will:
Discuss The Star Day Care Centre policies and practices
Ensure they understand the term ‘confidentiality’ and the implications if
confidentiality is breached
Explain staff shifts, breaks and all aspects of the day-to-day management of
the Nursery
Show students around the building, pointing out fire exits, toilets, staff room,
kitchen, laundry, and office
Introduce to staff and children and parents/carers where appropriate
Identify their group room leader who will liaise with the overall student
supervisor
Explain the role of the supervisor/mentor.
We acknowledge that students are here to learn and gain all round work
experience in early years and play settings:
The guidelines to ensure that happens are:
Students and volunteers will not be left unsupervised with the children and
should have CRB. They will not be allocated more than one child if they are to
support children and staff on outings. (Students who are on work experience
from local schools will not be allocated children).
Students will be allocated to a specific room and specific worker.
The role of the room leader is to co-ordinate the supervision of the students.
We recognise that student input is a two way process: •
•
Students gain relevant experience
Staff have the opportunity to develop their supervisory skills.
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Enabling environment
Physical environment
The premises are safe, secure, and suitable for their purpose. They provide
adequate space in an appropriate location, are welcoming to children and
offer access to the necessary facilities for a range of activities which promote
their development
The Star Day Care Centre is designed to provide children with a stimulating
and safe environment.
The premises are clean, well lit, and have adequate natural lighting. Daily risk
assessments are carried out (see health and safety policy) to ensure that the
premises are maintained in a suitable state of repair and decoration.
The entrance and reception area are welcoming and friendly to children and
parents/carers. An open structured room layout allows children to choose
from a variety of play opportunities, and reflects, stimulates and support
children’s learning.
Images and displays reflect local communities, and information provided
meets the needs of diverse cultures.
Children are able to move with ease from one activity to another, and are
afforded equal opportunity to access all play opportunities and environments.
Rooms are maintained at an adequate temperature.
Our premises comply with the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act
1995.
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Equipment
Furniture, equipment and toys are provided which are appropriate for their
purpose and help to create an accessible and stimulating environment. They
are of suitable design and condition, well maintained and conform to safety
standards
The Star Day Care Centre has a wide range of exciting equipment that
stimulates learning and development, both indoors and outdoors. All furniture,
toys and equipment are kept in good repair, and conform to BS EN safety
standards or the Toys (Safety) Regulations (1995) where applicable.
Equipment reflects the diverse cultures that the Nursery serves.
All electrical toys and equipment are subject to PAT testing
Staff are trained on the correct use of computers and other IT equipment
Risk Assessments are carried out when planning the purchasing of toys and
equipment, and regularly reviewed (at least once a year).
Age appropriate furniture and equipment is always available in sufficient
quantities for the number of children in each room.
Books and equipment are maintained to a high standard in relation to safety
and presentation.
Accessible storage is provided to promote independence and freedom of
choice.
An excellent range of books
Staff are encouraged to select new books that reflect diversity, challenge
stereotypes, and meet the educational needs of the children. The selection
will always include reference books, dual language books, and a range of
age-appropriate formats.
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Learning and Development
The Star Day Care Centre meets children’s individual needs and promotes
their welfare. We plan and provide activities and play opportunities to
develop children’s emotional, physical, social and intellectual capabilities
Children are encouraged to be confident and independent, and every effort
is made to develop their self esteem and learning through play from the
moment they first come to the Nursery
Projects are developed following children’s interests, to offer first hand
experiences that allow children to build on their natural curiosity, develop
their language and mathematical thinking, use their imagination, and
develop positive social relationships.
A range of age-appropriate equipment and natural objects is always
available to support learning. An integrated environment for all ages is being
developed, including:
The Star Day Care Centre creates an environment in which children,
parents/carers, carers and practitioners all contribute to the child becoming
a secure, confident, competent, self-directed, problem solving and creative
young person with a positive attitude to themselves and others.
Early Years Foundation Stage
The Star Day Care Centre works within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
The EYFS principles which guide the work of all practitioners are grouped into
four distinct but complementary themes:
•
A Unique Child recognises that every child is a competent learner from
birth who can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured.
•
Positive Relationships describes how children learn to be strong and
independent from a base of loving and secure relationships with parents
and/or a key person.
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•
Enabling Environments explains that the environment plays a key role in
supporting and extending children’s development and learning.
•
Learning and Development recognises that children develop and learn
in different ways and at different rates, and that all areas of learning and
development are equally important and inter-connected.
The principles which underpin the framework are as follows:
•
Parents/carers and families are central to the well being of the child
•
Relationships with other people (both adults and children) are of crucial
importance in a child’s life
•
A relationship with a key person at home and in the setting is essential
to young children’s well being
•
Babies and young children are social beings, they are competent
learners from birth
•
Learning is a shared process and children learn most effectively when,
with the support of a knowledgeable and trusted adult, they are actively
involved and interested
•
Caring adults count for more than resources and equipment
•
Schedules and routines must flow with the child’s needs
•
Children learn when they are given appropriate responsibility, allowed
to make errors, decisions and choices, and respected as autonomous and
competent learners
•
Children learn by doing rather than being told
•
Young children are vulnerable. They learn to be independent by having
someone they can depend on.
We build on what children already know and can do. There are six areas
covered by the early learning goals and educational programmes:
•
•
•
•
•
•
personal, social and emotional development;
communication, language and literacy;
problem solving, reasoning and numeracy;
knowledge and understanding of the world;
physical development;
creative development
The early years foundation stage is carefully structured, following three strands:
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* planning for the different starting points from which children develop their
learning, building on what they can do
* relevant and appropriate content that matches the different levels of young
children’s needs
* planned and purposeful projects based on observation of children’s interests,
that provide opportunities for teaching and learning, both indoors and
outdoors.
Daily access to outdoor play is provided, and children can move freely
between activities indoors and outdoors. Free flow access is provided on a
daily basis. Staff are located in each room and where the outdoor area is in
use, there are at least two members of staff present to supervise. Staff are
aware of the importance of staff deployment and adult to child ratios at all
times.
Children do not make a distinction between ‘play’ and ‘work’ and neither do
we. Children need time to become engrossed, work in depth, initiate and
complete activities. Well planned, purposeful projects and appropriate
teaching and intervention by practitioners engages children in the learning
process and helps them make progress in their learning.
We provide a well-planned and organised learning environment which offers
children rich and stimulating experiences and opportunities to explore,
experiment, plan and make decisions for themselves.
Observations and assessment
Each child’s development is closely observed to ensure that they are making
progress and that any particular difficulties in any of the areas of learning,
whatever the cause, are identified and addressed. These observations and
records inform the careful planning of projects to ensure that children are
progressing towards the early learning goals.
Staff are trained and/or experienced in assessing children. These informal
observations and assessments are valuable, and link directly to future
planning.
Staff help children to bring together what they know in a connected and
whole way by:
•
observing children at play
•
using their observations to support and extend play by planning and
resourcing a challenging environment
•
creating appropriate stepping stones with particular children in mind, to
help children to learn through their play and develop towards the early
learning goals
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•
engaging in the play, and encouraging the development of
communication (both non-verbal and spoken) through play
•
knowing when to take a back seat, and to let children develop their
play without adult intervention
Systematic written records of children’s progress, which are informed by
observations, are compiled for a variety of reasons:
•
to share knowledge with parents/carers
•
to help plan appropriate projects
•
to evaluate progress towards early learning goals
•
to identify any special educational needs and share knowledge with
outside agencies when appropriate
•
to monitor equal opportunities in terms of access to the early years
foundation stage offer
•
to share knowledge among the staff team and provide continuity in
case of staff absences or changes
•
to pass on information to school
Observations
When a child starts at the setting, their key person will complete initial
observations during the first few weeks. These provide a thumbnail sketch of
where the child is, in terms of language, cognitive and social skills. There will
be an initial consultation between parents/carers and key person within 6
weeks of the child starting at the Nursery
Planning starts with, and builds on, what the children know, can do, and
understand. Children’s experiences are continuously evaluated to establish
whether they fulfil their aims in terms of:
Experiences offered
Enjoyment
The skills encouraged, including independence
Level of challenge in relation to child’s ability
How they may be developed
Throughout the child’s time at the Nursery
Provision staff and students are encouraged to record observations of the
children. Observations should always include the date, time and initials of the
observer. It is important to observe children in different settings: in groups, as
individuals, at play, in conversation, with adults etc.
Assessment
Key persons complete regular assessments, using their judgment about length
of time spent, methods used etc. The general principle is that this should be
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an enjoyable experience for the child. The assessment should be used as a
diagnostic tool – if it highlights a specific area of concern, e.g. difficulty using
scissors, action should be planned to help. If there are any general concerns,
these will be discussed with the SENCO. Building on observations using the
Learning Journey Observation Form, at least once a week. These observations
should feed into the daily planning for each individual child and use for their
next steps of planning.
Standards for displaying children’s work
We aim for The Star Day Care Centre to look bright and attractive and display
children’s learning journeys. Children’s own work is valued by being mounted
and displayed; displays are at a level which children can appreciate and
enjoy. When displaying the children’s work:
ALL ART WORK MUST BE THE CHILD’S OWN, ORIGINAL WORK
Displays must have a title and date
All children’s work must be named and dated on a separate piece of paper
and not written on their creation.
All writing on displays must show the correct use of lower and upper case and
the correct spelling
Backing paper should be in good condition
All paper must have straight edges and not be ripped or uneven unless
designed in that way
The paper the children have ‘created’ on should not be cut after they have
finished or be cut into another shape.
If a piece of work is to be titled let the child give you the title using open
questions.
Displays are set in context and related to the children’s real experiences.
Displays are maintained once they have been put up and it is everyone’s
responsibility to ensure this happens
Table top as well as wall displays are used
Ensure equal representation of children’s work
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Children’s have the facility to display some of their own work themselves in a
‘workshop’ area
Listening to Children Policy
We work within the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Rights
of the Child, which says that children have the right to:
•
protection against discrimination
•
have their best interests given the most importance when adults make
decisions about them
•
say what they think and be listened to by adults when they make
decisions that affect them
•
protection from violence, abuse, neglect and being hurt
•
special protection and help if a refugee
•
special care and education to enable them to develop and lead a full
life if they have a disability
•
education which tries to develop their personality and abilities as much
as possible and encourages them to respect other people’s rights and values
•
use their own language and practice their own culture and religion
•
play and free time
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child informs Nursery
practice. The particular articles that relate to the Listening to Children Policy
are Articles 12 and 13 which state that:
•
The child’s views should be taken into account in anything that affects
them
•
Children should have information in a way that they can understand so
that they can make choices and decisions
All children should be listened to actively. Listening to children may take a
number of forms:
Listening to speech and other forms of communication (sign language,
Makaton etc)
Observing body language and behaviour
Through play and creative expression
Aims
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To structure all planning to include children’s views. This will include asking
children what they think about:
Food and drink
Activities
Budget decisions e.g. selecting new equipment
Surroundings
Safety
Opportunities to make new friends
Views of adults
Reviews of their progress
Regular monitoring of the policy and feedback and review meetings to
discuss progress.
Children are empowered to make decisions, negotiate and co-operate with
each other and their staff.
To develop appropriate training for staff, parents/carers and carers to:
Develop their understanding of the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child
To communicate with children about their views using a range of techniques
e.g. visual aids, circle time, artistic expression etc.
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Outdoor play policy
Outdoor play opportunities are included in the early years foundation stage
planning and offer opportunities for imaginative play, construction,
horticultural play, scientific and environmental, and quiet play. Children can
flow freely between indoors and outdoors, and are able to choose where
they prefer to be.
The garden is used as an extension to the indoor environment. We encourage
children to take an active part and interest in their external surroundings by
following the seasons and growing cycle.
Outdoor play promotes:
•
Physical skills in gross motor movement
•
Opportunities for co-operation, language development and
independence
•
Vital mathematical, scientific and creative exploration
Outside equipment maintenance and reporting is the responsibility of all staff.
Any concerns need to be passed onto the Children’s Centre Health & Safety
Officer –and the Early Years and Childcare Manager.
1
Make sure all children are able to play/explore outside (regardless of
any disability/additional needs)
2
Before any children use the garden, staff should do a safety check to
ensure there are no dangerous items
3
All children will be given the opportunity to play outside in all weathers.
Parents are asked to provide suitable outdoor wear.
4
When all the children are outside at least one member of staff from
each room should remain in the garden
5
Staff position themselves all over the garden to ensure that all children
are adequately supervised and supported, and learning opportunities
extended
6
A full range of experiences are provided outside to ensure that children
are appropriately challenged
7
Drinks of cool water are available at all times
8
Children will be adequately protected from the sun
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9
Staff will be sensitive to gender issues (making sure that girls and boys
have equal access to space and all equipment)
10
Staff are aware of how cultural issues may impact (e.g. some children
may need to keep clothes on when paddling)
11
Staff are responsible for tidying the garden at the end of the day, with
the help of the children
Outings Policy
Outings provide important opportunities for learning, and are an essential part
of children’s experience. In order for the maximum benefit to be obtained by
the children, the learning opportunities of each outing are agreed and
recorded in advance.
When taking the children out of the Nursery grounds staff ensure their safety
at all times, accompanied by a qualified Early Years First Aider. It is the Early
Years and Childcare Manager’s responsibility to give permission for the outing
to take place, having first checked all arrangements and completed a formal
risk assessment.
Visits (short trips)
When registering a child in the Nursery or the parent/carer will be asked to
sign a visit consent form. This form covers visits that meet all the following
criteria:
No public transport will be used
The outing will mean the children are away from The Star Day Care Centre for
no longer than 3 hours.
The children will return before the usual collection time
A minimum of two staff will be present
The minimum staff ratio will be 1:4 for children aged over 3 years, 1:3 for
children aged 2 and under
Outings (longer trips)
A separate consent must be sought for any outings which have any of the
following criteria:
Some form of transport is to be used
Children will be away from the setting for a period of more than three hours.
The children may not return within normal collection times
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The following guidelines are adhered to for both visits and outings:
staff will be sensitive to children’s religion/beliefs in selecting places to visit
children must be carefully supervised at all times
children will wear a badge with the Nursery contact information on it only
any volunteers or staff who are not police checked as yet must remain with
permanent staff.
a First Aid kit must be taken.
Wherever possible a mobile phone must be taken and the number must be
left at the Nursery Office for ease of contact in an emergency.
A register must be taken on the trip. This must include all emergency contact
details
An experienced and qualified member of staff must always accompany the
children and staff and nominated as being ‘in charge’
There must be at least one person on outings who has a current paediatric
first aid certificate.
The greatest possible care will be taken at all times
Extra items for outings
Nappy changing kits, toilet rolls, tissues, bucket, vinyl gloves, sun cream and
appropriate spare clothing. Refreshments may also need to be taken
In case of transport breakdown
If the transport being used breaks down the Early Years and Childcare
Manager, needs to be notified immediately. The children’s safety and security
are the prime considerations at all times.
If a coach or minibus is used it must have appropriate seatbelts/harnesses.
Staff or private cars may not be used unless insured for that purpose.
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Welfare requirements
Adults providing day care, looking after children or having unsupervised
access to them are suitable to do so
The registered person complies with all conditions of registration. Staff are the
key to high quality childcare and early years education, so our staff are
carefully selected for their experience and qualifications.
Staff qualifications and experience
A majority of staff are qualified, in addition to the Early Years and Childcare
Manager, in line with registration requirements. Staff qualifications are
accepted in accordance with the current Childrens Workforce Development
Council guidance (see www.cwdcouncil.org.uk for current list of accepted
qualifications).
Police Checks
All staff complete enhanced Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) disclosure checks
and receive CRB clearance before they are left alone with children; these are
updated every two years.
Children under Two
Children aged under two years are cared for in groups of no more than 9
At least 50% of staff caring for babies have received training in this specific
area
The person in charge of the baby room has suitable experience of working
with children under two years
Staffing arrangements minimise the number of carers for the individual child
Children have the opportunity to interact with a consistent adult at frequent
intervals throughout the day
There is clear planning of children’s activities
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Nappy changing facilities are provided which meet environmental health
standards
Quiet areas are provided to enable individual sleep patterns to be facilitated
SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS
Children are offered the opportunity for rest, relaxation or quiet time as they
need. Children will never be forced to rest, but given the opportunity to do so
if they wish.
RECOMMENDED SLEEPING POSITION FOR BABIES
The best position for a baby to sleep is on the back or side, not on the tummy.
It is also recommended that you place the child at the bottom end of the cot.
Sometimes a doctor will recommend that a baby lies on their tummy for
medical reasons but make sure that the baby does not become completely
covered by the bedclothes.
The baby should not have a pillow when sleeping.
No cot bumpers or duvets may be used.
All sleep rooms must have room thermometers. All precautions which can be
taken to keep the room at the correct temperature should be taken.
CHANGING AND DISPOSAL OF NAPPIES
Babies will be changed by their key person whenever possible.
Staff always wash their hands thoroughly before changing a baby.
Staff will wear clean aprons before starting to change any child.
No child must ever be left unattended on a changing mat or potty.
During each nappy change disposable gloves will be worn at all times.
New gloves must be used for each nappy change.
The changing mat must be wiped down after each change using antibacterial spray and the specified cloth.
All nappies must be placed in the nappy bins provided and then put in the
yellow clinical waste sacks for disposal.
We use disposable towels and tissues to reduce the risk of cross infection
BOTTLE FEEDS
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The experience of bottle feeding is a crucial interaction between babies and
their carers, and we aim to ensure that it is a positive experience for all babies
in our care. To that end:
Babies are fed by their key person whenever possible
Eye to eye contact is an important part of the interaction
Staff ensure that all items they may require are close at hand so that feeding
is not interrupted
Before a feed
During the child’s introductory visits, the key person will ascertain which type
of milk the parents/carers/carers would like their child to have, and this is
recorded
All staff must wash their hands before preparing or giving bottles
Bottles are always prepared following the manufacturer’s guidelines; any
differences requested by parents/carers must be accompanied by a doctor’s
letter.
Staff ensure that they have the correct bottle, heated to the correct
temperature and tested on the inside of their wrist before it is given to a child.
Key workers settle themselves in a comfortable chair or alternative seat,
holding the child in their arms in a comfortable position, before feeding starts
A loosely tied bib around the child’s neck protects their clothes
Staff follow the feeding routine discussed with the parent.
Storage
•
No bottle feed regardless of the amount left will be stored and used
again
•
Bottles are always labelled with child’s name before storing, using
washable name tags
•
Bottles are left to cool before storing and stored in the fridge
During and after a feed
•
A child will never be left unattended with a bottle or be allowed to walk
around with a bottle
•
If a child needs winding during their feed, the lid should be replaced on
the bottle, and the bottle replaced on a feeding tray, until the child is ready
to continue their feed
•
Once the feed is finished, the bottle will have its lid replaced then put
out of the way whilst the key person settles the child, either to sleep or at an
activity
•
The amount the child has drunk must be recorded as soon as the child
is settled
•
All bottles and implements used during feeding will be washed and
sterilised before and after use
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Organisation
Documentation
Records, policies and procedures which are required for the efficient and
safe management of the provision, and to promote the welfare, care and
learning of children are maintained. Records about individual children are
shared with the child’s parents/carers.
All required records relating to individual children are maintained, and
retained for one year after children have left the Nursery. The name, address
and date of birth of each child looked after on the premises is recorded.
Records are shared with the child’s parents/carers, and always available for
inspection by OFSTED.
All accident, RIDDOR and child protection records are kept and archived.
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Informing Ofsted Policy
The Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage states that there
are occasions when OFSTED must be informed.
Page 22 – Safeguarding & promoting Children’s Welfare
All providers must inform OFSTED, without delay, of any allegations of serious
harm or abuse by any person living, working, or looking after children at the
premises (whether that allegation relates to harm or abuse committed on the
premises or elsewhere), or any other abuse which is alleged to have taken
place on the premises, and of the action taken in respect of these allegations.
An early years provider who, without reasonable excuse, fails to comply with
this requirement, commits an offence.
Page 23 – Premises and Security
Providers must notify OFSTED of any change in the facilities to be used for
care that may affect the space and level of care available to children. An
early years provider who, without reasonable excuse, fails to comply with this
requirement, commits an offence.
Page 26 – Illnesses and Injuries
Providers must notify OFSTED and local child protection agencies of any
serious accident or injury to, or serious illness of, or the death of, any child
whilst in their care, and act on any advice given.
An early years provider who, without reasonable excuse, fails to comply with
this requirement, commits an offence.
Page 27 – Illnesses and Unjuries
Providers must notify OFSTED of any food poisoning affecting two or more
children looked after on the premises. An early years provider who, without
reasonable excuse, fails to comply with this requirement, commits an offence.
If providers have reason to believe that any child is suffering from a notifiable
disease identified as such in the Public Health (Infection Diseases) Regulations
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1988, they should inform OFSTED. Providers should act on any advice given by
the Health Protection Agency and inform OFSTED of any action taken.
Page 30
Providers must notify OFSTED of:
 any change in the address of premises on which childcare is provided;
 any proposal to change the hours during which childcare is provided
which will entail the provision of overnight care;
 particulars of any significant event which is likely to affect the suitability
of the early years provider or any other person who cares for, or is in
regular contact with, children on the premises to look after children
 any change to the person who is managing the early years provision
 where the early years provision is provided by a charity, any change in
the name or registration number of the charity
 Where the specific legal requirements above require notification about
a change of person, the information that must be provided to Ofsted is
the new person’s date of birth, name, any former names or aliases and
home address
 Of any change in their telephone number
 any criminal offence committed by the registered provider after the
time of registration.
An early years provider who, without reasonable excuse, fails to comply with
this requirement, commits an offence.
Page 34 - Premises
Providers must inform OFSTED of any significant changes or events relating to
the premises on which childcare is provided.
Significant changes or events which must be reported to OFSTED include:
 significant changes to the premises, for example structural alterations or
an extension;
 something which adversely affects the smooth running of the provision
over a sustained period of time;
 changes to the outside of the premises such as adding a pond or
taking down fencing.
It will be the responsibility of the Early Years & Childcare Manager to ensure
OFSTED is informed as soon as possible by telephoning 0300 1231231 or writing
to OFSTED Early Years, Piccadilly Gate, Store Street, Manchester, M1 2WD
Manchester
M1 2WD
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The Star Day Care Centre meets required adult: child ratios, ensures that
training and qualifications requirements are met and organises space and
resources to meet children’s needs effectively.
STAFF RATIOS
The minimum staffing ratios for the following age-groups are as follows:
Age of children
Staff / child ratio
Groupings
0-2 years
1:3
18
2-3 years
1:4
12
3+ years
1:8
24
The Star Day Care Centre has an operational plan, which is available to
parents/carers and regularly reviewed. The plan shows how staff are
deployed within the Nursery how and what activities are provided, and how
the continuing training needs of staff are met.
The Early Years and Childcare Manager, ensures that suitable contingency
arrangements are in place to cover emergencies and unexpected staff
absences, and sufficient suitable staff are available to cover staff breaks,
holidays, sickness and time spent with parents/carers. This is provided by use
of bank staff and staff at any of our sister nurseries.
Registers
Accurate registers are maintained for both children and staff on a daily basis,
showing hours of attendance:
Children's registers
Children's registers are kept up to date at all times. Children are marked in
upon arrival stating the time accurately and marked out when collected, with
the time. This is the responsibility of all staff. Registers are taken out if leaving
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the building and a list of children and staff left with the senior member of staff
on duty, as outlined in the outings policy.
Staff Registers
Staff registers are kept up to date. There is also a copy register kept in the
office.
Visitors Register
This is kept at reception, using the form provided. Visitors are asked to
complete the form before being allowed entry.
No smoking
Smoking is not allowed within the boundaries of The Star Day Care Centre
In order to ensure a healthy atmosphere for children, parents/carers, staff and
visitors, the no smoking policy will also apply at social events outside normal
Nursery opening hours, and when staff are wearing their uniform.
Working Tax Credit
We encourage parents/carers to find out about Working Tax Credit so that
they can get help to pay their fees. Contact the Inland Revenue Tax Credits
help line on 0845 300 3900 for claim packs and more information, or the Inland
Revenue Website on www.hmrc.gov.uk/taxcredits
The Working Tax Credit contains a childcare element which can form an
important source of help with fees for low-waged parents/carers who are
working more than 16 hours a week, and meet the eligibility criteria.
The childcare element of Working Tax Credit can be worth up to a maximum
of 70% of up to £175 for one child (and £300 for two or more children) of the
costs of registered or approved childcare that are taken into account when
calculating Working Tax Credit.
The amount of Working Tax Credit awarded by HMRC depends on an
employee’s:
1
household income and savings
2
number of children and their ages
3
number of hours worked
4
amount of eligible childcare charges paid
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Staff Co-ordinating Roles
Safeguarding Children – Christine Smith / Jennifer Wass
2 Year Pilot Scheme Lead – Christine Smith / Jennifer WAss
Equal Opportunities – All Staff
Disability/additional Needs –
Christine Smith / Jennifer Wass
Encouraging Good Behavioural – All Staff
Health & Safety – Christine Smith / Jennifer Wass
Student & Volunteer Support – Iris Webster
EYFS – Christine Smith / Jennifer Wass
Training – Christine Smith / Jennifer Wass
Activity Bags – All Staff
Outside Area – All Staff
Book Area Displays – All Staff
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Appendix B - CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT
1.
In consideration for the disclosure by you of confidential information in connection
with or relating to the business of your company or clients or prospective clients, the
Children’s Centre undertakes to:
1.1
Treat the information as being strictly private and confidential, and shall take all
precautions so as to maintain its status as such;
1.2
Use and apply the information solely for the purpose of the agreement between us
and evaluating or implementing any other projects which we might undertake between us.
2.
As used in this letter, the term “confidential information” shall mean any information in
any form, written or otherwise, emanating directly from you, your associated companies or
your authorised financial and legal advisors, whether or not it is identified as confidential.
3.
It is understood that the term “confidential information” does not include:
3.1
Information which is publicly known at the time of disclosure;
3.2
Information which, after disclosure, has become publicly known, other than as a result
of any breach of any obligation of confidentiality;
3.3
Information which we can show by documentary evidence produced to you or your
legal advisors within seven days of disclosure was known to us prior to its disclosure;
3.4
Information which we can show by documentary evidence produced to you or your
legal advisors was made available to us by a third party.
4.
We agree to:
4.1
Limit the disclosure of the confidential information to those of our officers, employees
and advisers to whom such disclosure is strictly necessary for the purpose of its evaluation;
4.2
Ensure that such officers, employees and advisers are bound by equivalent
obligations in respect of the confidential information to those set out in this letter and to
ensure that such officers, employees and advisers are aware of their obligations with regard
to the confidential information and;
4.3
Use our best endeavours to ensure that such officers, employees and advisers abide
by such obligations.
5.
Unless you have agreed otherwise in writing, upon completion of the purpose for
which the confidential information has been disclosed to us or upon written request by you,
we shall return any and all materials which contain any confidential information in whatever
medium, and all reports or analyses of information based on or derived from it.
6.
We understand and acknowledge that the information disclosed to us by yourselves is
made without any express or implied warranty as to its accuracy.
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7.
We further confirm and undertake that no approaches of any kind will be made as a
result of the receipt or use of the confidential information by us or on behalf of us, to your staff,
customers or clients or prospective clients, suppliers or advisors, without your prior express
knowledge and consent.
8.
For the purpose of this agreement, where they are a business, reference to a client,
prospective client or prospective clients’ supplier shall include any subsidiary or holding
company of that client or any other subsidiary company of the said holding company,
“holding company” and “subsidiary company” being as defined in Section 736 of the
Companies Act 1985.
9.
In the event of any violation by us of the undertakings contained in this letter, you shall
be entitled, in addition to any other rights or remedies which you may have, to maintain an
action for damages and permanent injunctive relief and in addition shall be entitled to
Preliminary injunctive relief, it being agreed that the substantial and irreparable damages
which you would sustain upon any such violation are impossible to ascertain in advance and
that money damages will not provide an adequate remedy to you.
10.
We also agree that, without your prior written approval, we will not make, or permit
anyone acting on our behalf to make any public announcement or confirm any statements
by third parties concerning our expression of interest in entering into the transaction
described above or any other matters in connection therewith, except as otherwise required
by the law. In the event that we or our representatives to whom you have supplied
information or documents are required (by oral questions, interrogatories, requests for
information of documents, subpoena, civil investigation demand, any informal or formal
investigation by any government or governmental authority or otherwise) to disclose any
confidential information or facts contained in such materials, we agree (i) to notify you
immediately of the existence, terms and circumstances surrounding such a requirement, (ii)
to consult with you on the advisability of taking legally available steps to resist or narrow such
a requirement, and (iii) if disclosure of such information is requested, to furnish only such
portion of confidential information or documents which, in the opinion of counsel, it is legally
compelled to disclose.
11.
We understand that you will on request undertake reciprocal obligations in respect of
the confidential information we disclose to you about our business.
This undertaking is governed by and shall be construed in accordance with English Law and
shall be without prejudice to and shall remain in force regardless of the termination however
caused of any other contractual arrangements between us.
Name (print): ...................................................................................
Position: ........................................
Date: ......................................
For and on behalf of: .............................................................................
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Appendix C – WHISTLEBLOWING POLICY
Whistleblowing
Policy
Author:
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Tracey Rodden
Nursery policies reviewed 14/9/2011
1.
Introduction –what is Whistleblowing?
Whistleblowing is about helping people have a voice to raise legitimate
concerns or worries about an organisations activities and practices.
4Children have adopted this policy to make it possible for anyone who works
for, or on behalf of the 4Children to raise concerns they have and to be sure
those issues will be taken seriously.
Generally, if you want to raise an issue, there are established channels i.e.
through your own manager (if you work for 4Children) or your normal point of
contact if you are employed by one of 4Children’s suppliers, agents or
partners. Sometimes that route can’t be used:


maybe you’ve raised an issue and not had a satisfactory response
perhaps the normal contact is the very person you have concerns
about
The Whistleblowing Policy provides another way to get that information to a
point where it will be taken seriously.
2.
What is the Whistleblowing Policy for?
The intention is to make it easy for you to be heard if normal channels can’t
be followed. 4Children wants you to:



feel confident in raising concerns and to question and act upon
concerns about practice
be reassured that 4Children will do the utmost to protect you from
reprisals, or victimisation for raising concerns in good faith
be able to take the matter further if you are dissatisfied with 4Children’s
response
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3.
What kind of areas are covered?
Examples of issues which might be raised, would include,








conduct which is an offence or a breach of law
sexual, physical or verbal abuse of employees, the public or clients
health and safety risks to employees, the public or clients
damage to the environment
the unauthorised use of funds
possible fraud or corruption
disclosures related to miscarriage of justice
unethical conduct
Or it may be something that,




makes you feel uncomfortable in terms of known standards
is against 4Children’s policies and practices
is unlawful
amounts to improper conduct
The Whistleblowing Policy does not intend to replace grievance or other
established processes of 4Children.
4.
What happens if a concern is raised?
Concerns can be raised by phone or in writing. This will start a confidential
and independent examination process. The more information that can be
supplied, including dates, times, details and names, the greater the
opportunity to establish the facts, but on no account should anyone try to
investigate matters themselves. As far as practicable, your confidentiality will
be respected, but obviously this cannot be guaranteed in all circumstances,
for example if the matter is proved to be a criminal offence, police may be
involved.
If there is an issue that you cannot or do not feel able to take through your
manager and if it falls within the areas described in this policy there are two
ways to share that information.

You can write to the Head of HR at 4Children at the following address:City Reach
5 Greenwich View Place
London, E14 9NN
Please mark the envelope confidential only to be opened by the Head
of HR, who is responsible for the policy. The Head of HR will ensure all
matters are dealt with independently or confidentially.
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
By telephoning the Head of HR on 07775 850 629
The Head of HR will talk through the issue to gather the necessary information.
That information will then be investigated. You do not have to give a name
or contact details, but failure to do so may prevent a full and fair investigation
and will make it difficult to ensure you are kept informed of progress and
outcomes. Whilst vexatious or malicious calls will not be tolerated and could
result in disciplinary action, 4Children will seek to fully support any employee
who raises genuine concerns.
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