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A childcare facility has been criticised for safety failings following a recent inspection.
Shelf Preschool and Out of School Club, located in the Youth and Community Centre on Wade House in Shelf, was found to have weaknesses in child safety, support for younger children, and leadership during an Ofsted visit on July 2.
The setting was rated as 'needing attention' in five key areas: achievement, children’s welfare and wellbeing, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, and leadership and governance.
It only met the expected standard in behaviour, attitudes, and establishing routines.
Safety 'not always prioritised'
Ofsted raised concerns about risk management in outdoor areas, noting that staff were seen stepping over a partitioned baby area without considering the potential hazard.
Inspectors also found prickly brambles growing into the main play space at children’s face height.
Although no children were seen playing near the brambles, inspectors said there was nothing to stop them from accessing the area.
The report warned that children’s safety was “not always prioritised as well as it should be” due to inconsistent risk identification and management.
Learning 'more incidental than planned'
The report highlighted shortcomings in the curriculum for the youngest children, describing learning as “more incidental than planned” and lacking progression.
In contrast, the curriculum for older children was viewed as more thoughtfully planned, with clear learning priorities understood by staff.
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Leaders were commended for seeking advice when concerned about a child’s development.
However, inspectors noted that managers had not completed necessary training in special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The report stated that the curriculum was “not equally ambitious for all children,” and that inconsistencies in planning and practice meant younger children were not receiving the same quality of learning opportunities.
Leadership was also criticised, with inspectors noting that while leaders were aware of areas needing improvement, action was not being taken quickly enough.
Qualification requirements not being met
Recent staff changes were said to have further affected the setting, and qualification requirements for staff working with under-twos were not being met at the time of inspection.
Despite the concerns, inspectors noted positive relationships between staff and children, healthy meal provision, and strong engagement with families.
They also praised the preschool’s settling-in arrangements and described staff as nurturing and attentive.
Shelf Preschool and Out of School Club serves children aged one to 11 and offers 55 places.
It was found to have not met the requirements of both the compulsory and voluntary parts of the Childcare Register.
Shelf Preschool and Out of School Club has been approached for comment but had not responded at the time of publication.