Policies and Procedures
Evacuation Procedure
*Close all windows and doors
*Staff members should assemble children at the appointed fire exit in each room or if this is not possible the nearest exit must be taken, all rooms and areas should be accounted for with a sweep of the bathroom area and cubicles. Children's welfare and safety must be of the utmost importance.
*The senior staff member in each room most collect the register, information box, telephone and the time in sheet and lead the group from the building. The supernumerary staff member on duty should collect the visitor's book from the hall.
*All belongings must be left behind.
*On exit all external doors must be closed.
*All staff, students and visitors should follow the evacuation procedure and collect in front of the building assembly point in the Sand Pit area of the outdoor play space. (Sign posted)
*The manager or senior should take the register immediately on arrival at the assembly point.
*An allocated staff member will report to the reception at Continu-forms to contact the emergency services.
Staff, Students, Visitors and Children will not leave the assembly point until the all clear has been given on the advice of the professional attending and with agreement of the manager or senior staff member present.
Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy
The role includes-
-Sharing Information with the Staff team
-Accessing information and liaising with the outside agencies to make sure information is up to date (multi-agency)
-Collating information when there are concerns regarding a child
-Monitoring the appropriate use of ITC and Media in the nursery
-Training the Staff team
-Monitor accident and incident forms
-Provide training on how to listen and respond appropriately to children
-Ensure all opportunities to help children to learn about keeping themselves safe are taken and staff understand the importance of this.
The DSL will ensure that guidance is considered and implemented into the daily practice of the nursery.
-Early Years foundation stage –Welfare Requirements
-Every Child Matters Framework
-The Local Child Protection Board
- “What to do if you are worried a child is being abused” booklet
-Safeguarding children and protecting professionals in Early years settings-online safety
-Working together to safeguard children
-Keeping children safe in education
-Policies and Procedures-E-safety, Whistle blowing, Escalation Policy, concerns and complaints.
Online safety concerns are reported to our DSL, recorded and actioned.
Designated person/s for leading Safeguarding and Child Protection - Maxine Neale and Louise Johnson.
Duty of Care
Sunflowers Day Nursery has a duty to be aware that abuse does occur in our society. The nursery and its staff will work to identify children who are at risk of abuse, including the consideration of wider environmental factors that may be present in a child’s life which may impact on safety and welfare of the child. We are committed to helping to prevent abuse and raise awareness of how to be safe, and how to seek support if needed.
Vulnerable children, who are the subject of a child in need plan or a child protection plan or are looked after will be supported by the nursery safeguarding framework.
The DSL and key person will take an active role in supporting the child and their family. The team will ensure an active role in the monitoring and support of the children and family.
All multi-agency working will be prioritised and nursery will take on actions as agreed by social care to achieve the best possible outcomes for the child and family. A plan to meet individual children’s needs will be located in the child’s file.
Safeguarding Training
Training is made available to the staff team and is compulsory.
Staff members will receive training from the local authority and in setting procedure training from the DSL’s these are repeated regularly to ensure staff members are up to date on current guidance and regulations, and to enable them to respond in a timely manner when concerns arise.
Through appropriate training nursery staff will be aware of all categories of child abuse, and will respond appropriately to-
-Significant changes in children's behavior
-Significant change in attendance
-Deterioration in their well being
-Unexplained bruising, marks or signs of physical abuse (especially bruising on non-mobile children)
-Neglect
-The comments or actions made by children or Parent/Carers which give us cause for concern; including Identifying children at risk of Radicalisation and children at risk of sexual exploitation.
-any reasons to suspect neglect or abuse outside the setting, for example in the child’s home or a girl that maybe at risk of female genital mutilation.
-Racial Abuse
-Religious and faith based abuse
-inappropriate behaviour displayed by other staff members, or any other person working with the children.
Safer Recruitment and Suitable People
All new staff will receive a thorough interview and a staff member on the interview panel will be trained in safer recruitment.
All successful applicants will be subject to a vetting process to include DBS checks and reference checks, a full induction will take place including safeguarding and child protection issues.
All staff will be given the “what to do if you are worried a child is being abused” booklet. Staff will receive safeguarding training every 2 years as a minimum and the DSL will train every 1/2 years as a minimum. Additional training is encouraged and any update to regulations will be amended and shared with immediate effect.
All staff, volunteers and students will be given a nursery Handbook this provides written copies of all policies and procedures along with the code of conduct.
Concerns and Referrals
The nursery and its staff have a duty to report any suspicions around abuse to the Safeguarding and Community Safety Partnership
Can be contacted online or a referral can be made online using the referral form.
https://bcssp.bathnes.gov.uk
Sunflowers Day Nursery will follow the procedure set out by the Partnership and the child protection procedure documents and as such will seek their advice on all steps taken subsequently.
If the nursery have sufficient suspicion that a child in their care is being abused, neglected, groomed or exploited, the following steps will be taken-
1) Ask parent/carer for an explanation
Please note-If we have a concern about a child we will share these concerns with the parent/carers, however if sharing these concerns put the child at risk of significant or further harm we will seek advice from social care.
2) If explanation is not satisfactory, reinforce our duty to report to children’s services-referral and assessment team
3) Report to social services child protection team/social care team/Ofsted (additional referrals maybe made in some circumstances).
4) The nursery is aware that abuse can occur between peers, in this instance the DSL will gather information and records and seek advice from the local authority Child Protection Partnership BCSSP, appropriate arrangements will then be made to manage the allegation.
*All discussions, notes and records taken by the nursery will be accurate. Referrals will be made promptly and will be accessible to the parents/carer and to the Local safeguarding partnership. Any circumstance that may arise will be treated sensitively and with extreme confidentiality. We are aware that child abuse or neglect may lead to a criminal investigation. At no point will the nursery or any staff member attempt to ask leading questions or attempt to investigate the allegation, as doing so may jeopardise a police investigation.
The nursery will be aware of and seek support to overcome any barriers which may occur when supporting families around safeguarding or child protection issues including; children from minority ethnic groups and children with disabilities or additional needs where communication may be a consideration. The nursery will ensure the effective monitoring of children in our care who are non-verbal children such as Babies or the very young,
Issue's relating to child protection is to be dealt with by the nursery managers/DSL for Child protection.
Where a professional disagreement occurs in relation to the safety of children around level of need, Roles and responsibilities, the need for action or communication the managers will refer to its Escalation policy noted within the staff Handbook.
Concerns, Compliments And Complaints
Complaints made to a senior staff member or the Manager, complaints to the manager should be in writing and will be recorded in the complaint book including all information required by OFSTED, a written acknowledgment of the complaint will be received with 5 working days. Action to deal with and resolve the issue will depend on the complaint itself but will include and investigation by the manager into the complaint including discussions with relevant parties.
The person making the complaint will be informed of the actions taken until the issue is resolved to the full satisfaction of all parties. If resolution is not achieved the nursery will contact the local authority to liaise between nursery and the complainant. All complaints will be recording in the complaint file located in office.
If a complaint is about one of the nursery managers the complaint should be made to the other manager if the complainant is uncomfortable with this please make the complaint to OFSTED.
Any parent who wishes to make a formal complaint can do so by contacting
OFSTED
Complaint and concerns-0300 123 4666
Helpline-0300 123 1231
Whistleblower-0300 123 3155
Safeguarding and Community Safety Partnership
Can be contacted online or a referral can be made online using the referral form.
https://bcssp.bathnes.gov.uk
If the complaint has child protection implications the DSL will take the necessary steps in line with the Local safeguarding partnership.
COMPLAINTS MADE AGAINST A STAFF MEMBER-Allegation of Abuse
Complaints made against any staff member will be dealt with seriously. If an allegation of abuse is made relating to harm or abuse committed either on the premises or elsewhere the staff member will be suspended immediately pending an investigation by all relevant parties.
The managers/Designated Person for Child Protection or in the event of the managers not being present at the time of the complaint the deputy manager will be responsible for:
-Discussing with the accused member of staff the issue and inform them of their suspension, to allocate themselves to be the named person for all future correspondence (with agreement of the suspended staff member).
-Contact relevant authorities of this issue and await guidance on next steps.
OFSTED
Complaint and concerns-0300 123 4666
Helpline-0300 123 1231
Whistleblower-0300 123 3155
For allegation against a staff member -LADO-01225 396810
-Notify staff team of issue with respect of confidentiality
Reassurance and support should be offered to all parties involved.
The nursery team is always grateful of any compliments received, compliments received either verbally, in writing or via our feedback forms will be shared with the team at staff meetings. Compliments and positive feedback will be recorded as an example of good practice if the compliment relates to an individual staff member it will be recorded in their file as a personal acknowledgement.
Additional Ofsted Notifications
Ofsted will be notified by the manager’s if-
Certain complaints
Child protection referrals
Allegation against a staff member
Food poisioning affecting 2 or more children
Any significant event or illness effecting the suitability of the Manager of the setting,
Any significant event effecting the suitability of any person in regular contact with children
Serious injury/death
Change of address
Change to premises affecting the space available to children and the quality of care available to them
Change of management
If a complaint is made stating that a breach of any of the EYFS statutory framework requirements.
Notifiable diseases are recorded
Change of address or contact details of the provider
Compliments
The nursery team is always grateful of any compliments received, compliments received either verbally, in writing or via our feedback forms will be shared with the team at staff meetings. Compliments and positive feedback will be recorded as an example of good practice if the compliment relates to an individual staff member it will be recorded in their file as a personal acknowledgement.
Complaints made against a staff member
Complaints made against any staff member-will be dealt with seriously. If an allegation of abuse is made relating to harm or abuse committed either on the premises or elsewhere the staff member will be suspended immediately pending an investigation by all relevant parties.
The managers/Designated Person for Child protection or in the event of the managers not being present at the time of the complaint the deputy manager will be responsible for:
-Discussing with the accused member of staff the issue and inform them of their suspension, to allocate themselves to be the named person for all future correspondence (with agreement of the suspended staff member).
-Contact relevant authorities of this issue and await guidance on next steps
Children’s and Families Assessment Intervention team-01225 396312
Out of hour’s duty team-01454 615165
Police Child Protection Team-01225 842786
Head of Safeguarding and Quality Assurance-01225 396339
OFSTED
Complaint and concerns-0300 123 4666
Helpline-0300 123 1231
Whistleblower-0300 123 3155
For allegation against a staff member -LADO-01225 396810
Additional Ofsted Notifications
Ofsted will be notified by the manager’s if -
Certain complaints
Child protection referrals
Allegation against a staff member
Food poisioning affecting 2 or more children
Any significant event effecting the suitability of any person in regular contact with children
Serious injury/death
Change of address
Change to premises affecting the space available to children and the quality of care available to them
Change of management
If a complaint is made stating that a breach of any of the EYFS statutory framework requirements.
Notifiable diseases are recorded
Change of address or contact details of the provider
Lock Down Policy
On hearing the Lock Down alarm, which will be 4 long sounds of a hand held horn, the staff will follow the Lock Down Procedure displayed on the wall in each room by the Fire Exit. The Horn will be stored on the wall inside the main entrance and a second hand help horn in case first should fail to work.
Parents will be informed of the Lock Down either via Face to Face on collection, a Facebook post or by telephone in more high risk situations.
Staff and children will Practice the Lock Down Procedure once a term and Alarm Checked monthly to ensure its working and effective.
Staff will be given a copy of the Lock Down Policy Procedure and given training on how to use the hand held Horn alarm.
Lock Down Procedure
· If outside return to the nursery building immediately and children to be assembled into ladybirds room as quickly as possible in a calm manner.
· Staff Member sounding Alarm Horn to collect the visitor’s book, phone and info cards.
· Close and lock all windows and doors once everyone is safely inside the building away from the threat.
· Staff members to assemble children/students/visitors into Ladybirds Room and everyone to sit on the floor for singing/story.
· Most senior staff member to ring the police and whilst on the phone keep look out to assess the threat and take advice given by police.
(Inform police if parents are due to arrive at the setting)
· Senior from each room to take register to ensure all children/students and staff are present and allocate one staff member to sweep bathroom and general areas.
Everyone must remain in Ladybirds Room unless told to move by Police or most Senior Staff member. Senior staff member
to ring/ or provide information for parents informing them of the Lock Down situation.
E-Safety Policy
Staff and Parent/Carers must be aware of the potential risks and safety issues around using ICT equipment as well as an awareness of the immense value of these resources.
The Designated person/s for Child Protection are responsible for the policies and procedure implementation. Staff must report any online safety concerns to our DSL, recorded and actioned.
Children are encouraged at age appropriate level to share online concerns to staff members which will then be reported to the DSL.
All reports to the DSL will be dealt with promptly and in an appropriate manner, confidentiality will be respected and these matters will be dealt with thoroughly and to the satisfaction of all parties.
Online safety training is provided on an annual basis and will be included in our Staff Induction.
Parents and Carers will be supported to develop knowledge of on line safety issues through our newsletters and notice boards. Family’s will be encouraged to talk about any concerns and will be signposted to appropriate sources for support.
Designated Person for Child Protection at Sunflowers Are-
Maxine Neale
Louise Johnson
Internet, emails, storage of Documents and children’s records and images
Any access by the children to the Internet will be fully supervised by the nursery staff, web sites will be checked previous to use to ensure appropriateness for children in our care.
Staff access is monitored and computers are protected by passwords, staff must seek permission from the nursery managers to access emails and any other stored document. All devices are kept securely ( stored in a locked office) with data protection requirements adhered to.
Children’s images uploaded to the computer for education purposes i.e. children’s records or project work will be monitored and removed after use.
Nursery computers are protected by anti-virus software.
Permission will be sought to use images in various media by the media recording permission slip completed on admission.
Social Networks
For confidentiality Staff are not permitted to have internet access to current Parents/Carers through any Social Network whilst at nursery or outside of the nursery environment.
As part of our confidentiality policies staff members are not permitted to discuss any aspect of the Nursery, Children, Staff or Parents under any circumstance when using these sites at home or for personal use.
Staff must be aware that any incident of this will result in disciplinary action and would be considered as gross misconduct.
If any staff members are targeted online for example online bullying or harassment they must report this to their Room Leader or DSL
Mobile Phones
Staff and Students are strictly not permitted to use Mobile Phones whilst caring for the children at Sunflowers, this includes Texting, Calling and creating images. Mobile Phones must be kept with possessions in the staff cupboard and only accessed during allocated break times. Individuals who bring mobiles onto the premises must ensure it does not hold any inappropriate or illegal content.
Wearable technology such as watches will be used in an appropriate manner and will only be accessed for time keeping purposes.
Staff, Students and Parents are not permitted to Create images on a mobile phone, camera; or any other device within the nursery premises at any time without permission from the Nursery Manager/Deputy.
Staff who fail to comply with this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.
Visitors and parents at the nursery must not Text, Call or Create images whilst in any area where children are present, we kindly ask all visitors/parents to ask for the use of a room to make or receive calls/texts and only when absolutely necessary.
Work mobile
The use of a mobile phone will be permitted during outside visits for communication purposes. The phone will be allocated by the managers for this purpose only.
Any staff member driving on an outing must ensure mobile phones are switched off whilst in motion.
Camera’s/Video cameras
Permission will be sought to use images in various media by the media recording permission slip completed on admission. Parent/Carers wishes will be adhered too.
Personal cameras/video cameras or any other device must not be used in the setting.
Each room holds its own camera/Ipad and its use is managed and monitored by the room supervisors via a camera log book. Under no circumstances should images be taken from the bathroom areas or any area were intimate care is undertaken. Images of children will be valued as a vital may of recording spontaneous moments that support the observation requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage and to share with parents through the children records.
The designated safeguarding Lead will oversee the storage of and use of all images or live action recordings at Sunflowers.
Designated Safeguarding Lead at Sunflowers Are-
Maxine Neale, Louise Johnson
ICT Misuse
Any misuse of the nurseries or personal ICT equipment must be reported to the Managers immediately and will be dealt with using our disciplinary system and will be considered gross misconduct.
Any misuse of a child protection nature will be reported to the designated lead for Safeguarding and dealt with appropriately and in lines with the local safeguarding children’s board guidance.
Designated Safeguarding Leads at Sunflowers Are-
Maxine Neale, Louise Johnson
Local authority designated officer-01225 396810
The internet Watch Foundation (https://www.iwf.org.uk/)
-to report illegal images including child sexual abuse materials
The child exploitation and online protection centre (https://www.ceop.police.uk/ceop-reporting/)
If worried about online abuse or the way that someone has been communicating online
The UK safer internet Centre helpline for professionals
(https://www.sarerinternet.org.uk/professionals-online-safety-helpline)
(https://www.nspcc.org.uk/what -we-do/about-us/partners/nspcc-o2-online-safety-partnership/)
for further information
Safeguarding children and protecting professionals in Early years settings-online safety
Working together to safeguard children
For concerns about a child -
https://bcssp.bathnes.gov.uk to report a concern or seek advice about a child at risk
Out of hour’s duty team-01454 615165
Police – Public Protection Unit Duty Desk – 01225 842786
Renewal and Replacement Of Equipment Policy
The nursery is fully aware of the health risks of unsuitable equipment, and the importance of cleanliness relating to limiting cross-contamination of illness.
*A risk assessment of the playrooms will be made each morning; any issues will be recorded and resolved immediately.
*All equipment and furniture will be checked on a monthly basis, any equipment, which is faulty/broken or damaged, will be reported to the managers and removed/discarded.
*Within the monthly check an audit will be made of resources, this information is passed to the managers.
*Equipment will be purchased as and when necessary.
*The nursery manager will ensure a reasonable budget is available to renew and replace equipment.
*All equipment and furniture will be cleaned and maintained by both the nursery staff and the nursery cleaner.
Supervision And Inappropriate Language
*Playrooms will be half-staff qualified or above.
*It is nursery policy that staff members are not left in sole charge of any child/children at the nursery.
*Two staff must be present in the bathroom at all times.
*Students must not be left unsupervised.
*In the event of a child being picked up late, two staff members must remain with the child at the nursery, one of which must be a senior member of staff.
We require all Staff, Parents, Students and Visitors to be aware that it is inappropriate to use certain language whilst in the presence of, or caring for children.
*Swear words of any kind should not be used in the presence of children
*It is nursery policy to not use certain words, which are conducive to low self-esteem such as:
Naughty/Silly/Stupid/Hate
Do not use the word No without ensuring you fully explain to the child the reason why it was unsafe or inappropriate for the child to continue their actions.
Admissions and Attendance Policy
Once Parents have been shown around the nursery a staff member explains that they can call at any time to discuss any concerns. If the family requires a space they are asked to complete an application form. Bookings are made on a first come first served basis.
On receiving the application form the managers will look to see if we can accommodate that child. If booking is successful a confirmation letter of that booking is sent. Parents must return the acceptance slip and a £50.00 deposit. Parents are advised that they will be contacted nearer the time of the start date to arrange pre-start visits.
We telephone parents to arrange Pre-start visits approximately 6 weeks before start date. A Home Visit is offered and arranged at the parent convenience.
Parent/carers come to the nursery with the child to complete information sheets. We encourage the parents to attend visits where they live their child for lengthening periods of time to a maximum of 2 hours.
It is normal practice to have a minimum or three visits however we offer extended pre-start package to cater for all children
*Accessibility plan available on request
Once settled into the nursery your chargeable sessions will begin, you will be provided with information on how to make payment and provided with a detailed payment plan. Payments should be on time and in full, please ensure you speak to the managers promptly if you experience problems with making your monthly payments. Nonpayment could result in your sessions being withdrawn.
It is important to maintain a good level of attendance, this will ensure your child settles well and is provided with the best opportunity to learn and develop.
Children’s sessions will be monitored, if any concerns arise we will contact you to discuss how we can help to increase attendance.
Please note- Government funding maybe withdrawn if you do not keep a consistent level of attendance.
If you have any concerns about your children while in setting, please speak to your Key person, they will be more than happy to discuss any issues.
Illness and Injury Policy
The nursery is unable to accept children who are suffering from illness, if it is felt that the child is unwell when they are brought to nursery. The parent/carer will be informed that they will not be able to attend for that session or for any subsequent sessions while the child is ill.
If a child becomes ill while at the nursery, a senior staff member will contact the parents/carer to request that they come to pick the child up as soon as possible.
If the parent is not available the nursery will use other contact numbers provided on the child's information sheets.
The nursery provides information at admission regarding illness, we ask parent/carers to make themselves aware of the common childhood illnesses and there symptoms.
The nursery clearly states the length of time a child should be away from nursery in the event of illness.
All necessary steps should be taken to prevent the spread of childhood diseases; incidents of illness are posted on the notice board to raise awareness.
The nursery has the right to refuse admission if it is felt to be detrimental to the health and wellbeing of the children and staff. If we have reason to believe that any child is suffering from a notifiable disease identified in the Public Health regulations we will inform this agency immediately, also the local safeguarding children’s board and OFSTED
Injury
Staff must wear protective clothing when dealing with accidents and injury.
Minor accidents will be assessed and dealt with by the staff on duty. Accident forms will be completed and discussed with parents and a signature will be requested.
Parents will be called if an injury involved a bang to the head, the discussion to call a parent will be made by the senior staff member present.
Where observation of a child is required an allocated person for this responsibility will put in place and named on the accident form.
Forms will be kept in the child’s file. We may refer to the accident form if a pattern of accidents immerges i.e. lots of falls
Note-it maybe necessary to request a child is collected from the nursery if a minor injury has been received at the nursery which requires supervision or a medical exam to ascertain the child's well being.
Major accidents or incidents will be assessed by the most senior staff member on the premises. A decision will be made on the immediate action to take including a decision to call an ambulance. All accidents are treated and assessed as individual cases and children’s individual conditions will affect the appropriate next steps to take.
as with NHS guidance the following will apply-
An Ambulance will be called-
-If a child stops breathing
-Is struggling to breath, sometimes with “sucking in” under the ribs.
-Is unconscious or unaware of what’s going on around them
-Won’t wake up
-Has a fit for the first time, even if they appear to recover
We will request that parents take their child to hospital, In the instance that parents/carers being unable to attend within 20-30 minute of our call we will take the child to hospital if-
-Has a fever and are lethargic despite nursery administering paracetamol (onset temp/ administered with parent permission)
-Difficulty breathing-fast, panting, or is wheezy
-Severe abdominal pain
-A cut that won’t stop bleeding or is wide
-A leg or arm injury and can’t use the limb
-Swallowed poison or tablets
Parents/Carers will be contacted immediately when safe to do so. Parents will be requested to provide an expected time of arrival. If a parent or an appropriate person is unable to attend within 20-30 minute of the call a decision may be made to take the child to hospital ourselves, if this occurs , 2 staff member will accompany the child and will take all relevant paperwork with them. Arrangements to meet the parent/care at the hospital will be made.
If the child can wait for the parent to arrive, Parents will be provided with full details of the incident including advice to seek medical attention this will be signed by the parent.
Serious accident, illness or injury to, or a death of a child while in our care and the circumstances and actions around the event’s will be reported to OFSTED, RIDOR and the Local Child Protection Agency (where Appropriate) within 3 days maximum. Any Advice or instruction given by these agencies will be followed.
Equal Opportunities Policy- (For Staff And Recruitment)
The nursery aims to ensure that individuals are selected, recruited, trained and promoted on the basis of occupational skill requirements.
The nursery will ensure that Job applicants and employees will not receive less favorable treatment on the grounds of age, gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, disability, cultural origin, national origin, illness i.e. HIV/AIDS or sexuality. Which can not be justified as being necessary for the safe and effective performance of work or training for work.
The nursery is committed to supporting team members and offer regular Supervision meetings and staff reviews to monitor and review, and evaluate the effectiveness of inclusive practices within the nursery including recruitment and staff training.
*Please see recruitment file for further information, available on request from the nursery managers.
Breast and Bottle Feeding Policy
Responsibilities of the mother:
Breast Milk
· Breast milk should be expressed and stored correctly, within a labelled bottle. Information regarding this, will be given to parents before starting nursery.
· Label on the bottle should include; Mothers name, Childs Name, Date and time expressed.
· If frozen the label should include the information above plus the date it was frozen and defrosted.
· Nursery to be provided with small amounts of breast milk in a number of sterile bottles to ensure no milk is wasted.
· Mother to provide nursery with a blanket that smells of her to provide added comfort during feeding times.
· Nursery will not accept any breast milk that is frozen or store breast milk between sessions. Parents are to ensure breast milk is fully defrosted before bringing it to nursery.
Bottle Feeding
· Parents to provide formula milk with information on the amount of formula required for each feed. If the parents wish to bring the formula already measured out then it should be clearly labelled on the front of the container the amount inside.
· Bottles provided are to be sterile and empty, ready for a bottle to be made fresh by nursery staff.
Responsibilities of the staff:
Breast Milk
· Nursery to provide suitable storage for bottled breast milk
Either –
Fridge
1. That is separate from food items
2. Temperature is 4c or lower
3. Bottles not to be stored in the door
Cool Bag
1. Milk can be kept in a cool bag for 24hrs.
2. Cool bag ice pack to be changed half way through the day
3. Cool bag to be labelled with child’s picture and name
· Nursery staff to read through the policy and breast feeding information before giving or handling breast milk
· Staff to understand that a women’s breast milk means a lot to them and their baby and should be handled with care and respect
· Staff to ensure they know the correct way to handle and prepare a breast bottle feed before preparing a feed
Bottle Formula
- Staff to ensure bottles are stored correctly before use and handled with care when making a bottle
- Staff to ensure they know the correct method in making a bottle feed in line with health visitors guideline
- Staff to wash and dry hands before handling or preparing Bottle Feeds
Preparing and Feeding
| Breast Milk | Formula Bottle |
|---|---|
| Bottles to be used in date order and checked to ensure they are labelled correctly | Parents to provide sterile empty bottles with formula milk measured into containers or formula tub |
| Bottles to be used within 1 hour of first use, then a red mark is placed on the label and returned to cool bag. Left over milk is to be returned to family | Staff to boil kettle 30 minutes before feeding time to allow it to cool to an appropriate temperature for making formula bottle |
| Bottle can be fed to baby from fridge/cool bag cold or warmed in a jug of warm/hot water. Water level not to go above lid level to ensure no water goes into the bottle to contaminate the milk | Water, once cooled for 30 min from boiling, to be filled into bottle to the correct amount required. Powder to be placed into water and lid replaced onto bottle. Shake bottle so the formula and milk mix |
| Breast milk can separate when being stored so before placing into jug or feeding baby move it gently in a clockwise rotational motion (do not shake) to remix breast milk | Place bottle of formula into a jug of cold water until it has cooled down to temperature baby requires |
| 0-6 month babies to be fed when staff see feeding cues from baby | Test formula on wrist to ensure it is at the correct temperature to give to the baby |
| 6 months plus to be fed when needed, using mothers routine around meal times | Milk not used within 1 hr to be thrown away and bottle washed out, then returned to child’s bag |
| Baby to be fed in an upright position and moved from one side to the other, half way through a feed to mimic breast feeding | |
| Baby to be fed for 10-20 minutes to mimic usual breast feeding experience | |
| Bottle to be stroked on babies lips from top to bottle to encourage feeding to start | |
| Once baby has released bottle and no longer takes it when stroked on the lips, staff should stop feeding as baby has reached its fullness | |
| Staff member feeding the baby breast milk should get another member of staff to check the label on the bottle and complete a feeding chart to be stored in child’s folder | |
| Breast milk to be tested on wrist before giving it to baby to ensure it is not too hot. Staff should not test bottle on wrist if they have a cut or broken skin, including eczema | |
| Staff are aware that breast milk can vary in colour from yellow, pink, and blue and that this is normal |
Breast feeding your baby at nursery
As a breast feeding mother you have rights and the law supports your right to breast feed your baby even once you have started work. If you need to leave work to breast feed your baby speak with your employer about how this will be a possibility for you.
Mothers wishing to Breast Feed on nursery premises are more than welcome and the staff will talk through with you a plan of action, taking into consideration the mothers and baby’s wellbeing. You can Breast feed in the room on our sofa or in private in our family room, we will do our best to make it a comfortable experience for you and your baby.
Training Policy
Sunflowers are committed to improving standards, with this in mind we require all staff to develop professionally through training. Sunflowers require all staff to complete mandatory training such as Safeguarding, First Aid, and food hygiene alongside this we require a minimum of 16 hours training per year.
Staff will be encouraged to share new knowledge at staff meetings, and the effectiveness of training will be reviewed, monitored and evaluated through Staff Supervision meetings.
Training undertaken is recorded on a Central Record of Professional development and can be viewed on request.
Equal Opportunities Values And Aims
The nursery is committed to:
1) Encouraging positive role models, and non-stereotypical images, where children value diversity and difference both within the local community and the wider world with an ethos of respect promoted through the use of toys, books, posters, the activities we provide and the experiences we promote.
2) We acknowledge that pre-conceptions in reference to gender, disability, age, race, religion, colour, culture and origin are abundant within language, body language and reactions, all of these we will challenge and will, as a group aim to provide and environment for children where by all can live freely without prejudice.
3) Sunflowers Day Nursery will ensure all children are treated equally, and that on no account will children be treated in a manner which is not positive in reference to gender, disability, age, race, religion, colour, culture origin and illness i.e. HIV/AIDS
4) Parents, partners and carers will not be discriminated against on the grounds of age, disability, gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, and cultural, illness i.e. HIV/AIDS or national origin. We will work closely with all families to ensure that they feel welcome and valued in our setting.
5) Our effective key person system will ensure that all children needs are met and that’s all issues are dealt with promptly and to satisfaction of all parties.
6) Effectiveness of our practices will be reviewed monitored and evaluated using feedback forms and questionnaires, this process will take account of views from Children, Parents, Carers, Staff and other supporting agencies and issues will be addressed by creating action plans to improve.
7) Equal opportunity issues will be discussed within the nursery staff meeting to ensure the policy is being enforced.
8) Staff will be trained regularly on equal opportunity issues.
9) If it is found that discrimination is taking place within the nursery by a staff member, parent, or child the managers will address this issue promptly and take necessary action.
The policy will be implemented through Recruitment, Induction, Admissions, Curriculum, Resources, Training, Staff meetings and reviews.
Equalities leader--Sarah Palmer mentored by Maxine Neale
For Recruitment
The nursery aims to ensure that individuals are selected, recruited, trained and promoted on the basis of occupational skill requirements.
The nursery will ensure that Job applicants and employees will not receive less favorable treatment on the grounds of age, gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, disability, cultural origin, national origin, illness i.e. HIV/AIDS or sexuality. Which can not be justified as being necessary for the safe and effective performance of work or training for work.
The nursery is committed to supporting team members and offer regular Supervision meetings and staff reviews to monitor and review, and evaluate the effectiveness of inclusive practices within the nursery including recruitment and staff training.
*Please see recruitment file for further information, available on request from the nursery managers
Behaviour Policy
Sunflowers Day nursery believe in promoting positive behavior
The nursery aims to encourage self-discipline, consideration for each other, and our surroundings and property.
We believe that by praising children and acknowledging their positive actions and attitudes we hope to ensure that children will feel valued and respected.
Sunflowers have rules that are concerned mainly with the safety, care and respect for each other. Children who behave inappropriately, e.g. by kicking or biting will be removed temporarily from the area. The child who has been upset will be comforted and the adult will confirm that the other child's behavior is not acceptable. We will acknowledge that the perpetrator may feel angry or sad and will help the child to understand it is not he/she that we dislike but the behaviour. The child will be encouraged to apologise for their actions. How a particular type of behavior is handled will depend on the child and the individual circumstances. Emotion coaching strategies will be used.
Parents will be informed of any changes in behaviour, although the behaviour will have been dealt with at the time, we feel that close contact with parents will help to develop continuity of care and challenging behaviour will be controlled more easily.
In the event of their being ongoing issues with behaviour parents will be involved in creating an Individual Behaviour Plan (IBP), this plan facilitates strategies on managing behaviour and can involve other professionals from which we seek advice or to whom we refer.
Advice regarding types of Behaviours such as Biting can be provided.
If it is necessary for a child to be restrained for their own safety or for the physical safety of others we will fully document our actions and consult with parents as to the cause of the restraint, safe restraint techniques will be used at all time.
All action taken by the staff members will be dealt with sensitively, staff will remain calm and will explain their reasons for their actions to the children involved. AT NO STAGE WILL PHYSICAL SANCTIONS BE USED OR THREATENED.
Bullying of any kind will not be tolerated at the nursery, and will be dealt with promptly, however we fully acknowledge that all parties involved in bullying may need support.
All the staff team access Behaviour management training via B.A.N.E.S early year training workshops or via in house training, the value of the training is overseen by the Behaviour Management coordinator. Any additional training received by the Behaviour Management coordinator is shared with the staff team at appropriate times such as staff meetings.
Managers will be informed promptly of any behaviour issues within the nursery, and have the right to exclude a child from nursery either temporarily or on a permanent basis. This will occur only if it is felt that the child's behaviour endangers others or parents are not willing to work with the nursery or other professionals in managing the behaviour issues.
Behavior management issues are overseen by: Dawn Ashman
Diet And Hygiene
Special Dietary needs-
It is nursery policy to cater for all dietary needs, if children have specific needs we request that all relevant information about their requirements are given when completing the information sheets.
If the child's needs are complex we may require a meeting to discuss how these needs can be met this will include consultation with the nurseries catering staff.
All food preparation at the nursery will comply with health and hygiene requirements and stored to ensure there is no risk of cross contamination.
The nursery management will provide a full Hazard analysis, all staff hold a food hygiene certificate.
*In the event of 2 or more cases of food poisoning the nursery managers will report to OFSTED and Environmental health to notify them of the occurrence the nursery managers will then fully adhere to any advice given.
Hygiene is paramount to illness prevention and the nursery take an active role in ensuring good hygiene practices are in place for staff and children.
Oral Hygiene Policy
We are aware of the importance of promoting oral hygiene in the Early years, and how these early years can impact on children’s oral health, in later childhood and into adulthood.
We are supporting families to engage in dental services in the area. We provide helpful resources and links to useful information and tools to support dental hygiene at home. We include regular dental updates on our newsletters and have regular tooth brushing sessions in nursery to promote good brushing techniques.
Staff undergo training to support this and we link into relevant professional’s i.e. Health Visitors and local dentist to ensure current and up to date information is provided to all families.
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Health and Safety Policy
The aim of the policy statement is to ensure the Health and Safety of the children, members of staff, students and anyone who may enter Sunflowers Day Nursery for any length of time. It is a way of taking practical steps to ensure that Health, Welfare and safety are considered important issues and to give guidelines to people new to the nursery. We will work actively towards the following objectives.
-To establish and maintain a safe and healthy environment throughout the nursery.
-To establish and maintain safe working procedures amongst the staff and children.
-To make arrangements for ensuring the absence of risks to health in connection with the use, handling, storage and transportation of articles and substances
- To ensure the sufficient information, supervision and instruction to enable all people working in or using Sunflowers Day Nursery to avoid detrimental situations and contribute positively to their own safety and health at work and to ensure to ensure they have access to health and safety courses and training. Also to ensure that managerial staff provide new and relevant documentation and legalisation materials as necessary.
- To ensure that the whole premises and access to and from it is safe and that it can be used with ease.
- To formulate effective procedures for use in case of fire and other emergencies for evacuating the premises.
- To follow the regulations of the health and safety at work act 1974 and any other relevant legalisation (updating with new Acts and legislation where necessary).
Louise Johnson and Maxine Neale are responsible for Health and Safety at Sunflowers Day Nursery
Students
*No more than two students will be present at the nursery, each student will be allocated to separate playrooms.
*Students will receive a full induction.
*Students should give details to the co-ordinator of the training goals to be achieved at the nursery.
*Students will not be left unsupervised at ANY time.
*Students will be identifiable to parents; Students will wear a name badge at all times.
*The Student Co-ordinator will liaise with the student's tutor to ensure progress is being made towards goals set at the beginning of placement.
*The Student Co-ordinator must inform the manager of the details of each student.
*All staff members are responsible for notifying the co-ordinator and the manager if they have any concerns about the student's suitability.
*It is the manager's discretion to refuse or terminate a placement at any time if a student is deemed unsuitable.
Student Co-ordinator-Gemma Berry
Health and safety policy
-To establish and maintain a safe and healthy environment throughout the nursery.
-To establish and maintain safe working procedures amongst the staff and children.
-To make arrangements for ensuring the absence of risks to health in connection with the use, handling, storage and transportation of articles and substances
- To ensure the sufficient information, supervision and instruction to enable all people working in or using Sunflowers Day Nursery to avoid detrimental situations and contribute positively to their own safety and health at work and to ensure to ensure they have access to health and safety courses and training. Also to ensure that managerial staff provide new and relevant documentation and legalisation materials as necessary.
- To ensure that the whole premises and access to and from it is safe and that it can be used with ease.
- To formulate effective procedures for use in case of fire and other emergencies for evacuating the premises.
- To follow the regulations of the health and safety at work act 1974 and any other relevant legalisation (updating with new Acts and legislation where necessary).
Louise Johnson and Maxine Neale are responsible for Health and Safety at Sunflowers Day Nursery
(TO BE ADHERED TO AND READ BY ALL STAFF, STUDENTS, AND ANY MEMBER OF THE PUBLIC THAT ENTERS THE SUNFLOWERS DAY NURSERY FACILITY)
STAFF MEMBERS SHOULD ENSURE THAT STUDENTS AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ADHERE TO THIS POLICY. THE MANAGERS AND SENIOR STAFF SHOULD ENSURE A COPY OF THIS POLICY IS AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING AT ALL TIMES.
A) NO SMOKING ON THE NURSERY PREMISES, NURSERY STAFF ARE NOT PERRMITTED TO SMOKE WHILST WEARING NURSERY UNIFORM.
B) NO HOT FLUIDS TO BE BROUGHT INTO THE NURSERY ROOMS
C) NO INAPPROPRIATE JEWELLERY TO BE WORN.
D) SMART AND PRACTICAL CLOTHING WITH SENSIBLE SHOES ONLY
E) NO RUNNING IN THE NURSERY BUILDING
F) CHILDREN SHOULD BE ENCOURAGED TO WALK WITHIN THE NURSERY
G) ELECTRICAL SOCKETS SHOULD BE COVERED (IF THIS IS NOT POSSIBLE MANAGERS/SENIOR STAFF SHOULD BE NOTIFIED IMMEDIATELY.
H) ALL CLEANING MATERIALS AND POISONOUS SUBSTANCES KEPT AT SUNFLOWERS MUST BE LOCKED AWAY OR PLACED OUT OF REACH OF THE CHILDREN
I) ALL FIRE EXITS SHOULD BE CLEARLY MARKED AND FREE OF OBSTRUCTION
J) FIRE EXTINGUISHERS SHOULD BE CLEARLY MARKED AND LABELLED APPROPRIATELY.
K) A COPY OF THE FIRE DRILL SHOULD BE VISABLE AT ALL FIRE EXITS
L) PROTECTIVE CLOTHING TO BE WORN WHEN PREPARING OR SERVING FOOD, HANDS TO BE WASHED USING ANTI-BACTERIAL HAND WASH WHEN SERVING FOOD AND ON ENTRY TO THE KITCHEN
M) ANY ADULT SCISSORS OR POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS OBJECTS SHOULD NOT BE LEFT WITHIN REACH OF THE CHILDREN
N) ANY ACCIDENT MUST BE REPORTED IMMEDIATELY AND RELEVANT FORMS COMPLETED
O) ALL STAFF SHOULD FAMILLARISE THEMSELVES WITH THE FIRST AID BOX
P) THE FIRST AIDERS SHOULD HAVE FULL ACCESS TO FIRST AID MATERIALS WHEN OUTSIDE THE NURSERY BUILDING.
Q) NO MEDICATION OF ANY KIND SHOULD BE ADMINISTERED TO THE CHILDREN BY THE MANAGEMENT OR ANY MEMBER OF STAFF UNLESS PRESCRIBED BY A DOCTOR OR INSTRUCTED TO DO SO BY A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL AND PARENT/GUADIANS HAVE COMPLETED MEDIACATION PERMISSION FORMS
R) ONLY AUTHORISED STAFF MEMBERS SHOULD ADMINISTER MEDICINES
S) TELEPHONE CALLS MUST BE RECEIVED BEFORE 7.30 A.M. IF A MEMBER OF STAFF IS ILL
T) NO STUDENT TO BE LEFT UNSUPERVISED AT ANY TIME, CHILDREN SHOULD BE SUPERVISED AT ALL TIMES
U) UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES MAY ANY MEMBER OF STAFF BE ALLOWED TO TAKE A CHILD FROM THE NURSERY UNLESS WRITTEN PERMISSION IS GIVEN.
V) STAFF SHOULD ENSURE CHILDREN ONLY GO HOME WITH NAMED PEOPLE WHICH HAS BEEN PREVIOUSLY AGREED
W) ALL INDIVIDUAL ROOM ROUTINES SHOULD BE FOLLOWED, INCLUDING KITCHEN HYGIENE ROUTINES, AND OTHER IMPORTANT HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDELINES
X) ALL OTHER POLICIES OUTLINED BY SUNFLOWERS DAY NURSERY SHOULD BE FOLLOWED IMPLICITLY FOR THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF ALL INVOLVED
Y) ALL MANAGERIAL LEVEL STAFF SHOULD ENSURE THE POLICIES SUPPLIED ARE INLINE WITH RECENT LEGISLATION, AVAILABLE TO ANYONE ENTERING THE PREMISES AND THAT THE NURSERY AS A WHOLE FOLLOW AND PUT INTO PRACTISE THE STATEMENTS LISTED.
Z) STAFF AND STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO READ THE HEALTH AND SAFETY LAW POSTER LOCATED IN THE FAMILY ROOM
Local Offer
We welcome all children at Sunflowers and encourage them to develop as individuals and live sociably with others, we allow children in our care to enjoy and thrive during their early years and most importantly to provide them with happiness and enthusiasm for the future.
Sunflowers is a fully inclusive setting, the team is committed to the integration of all children with additional needs. We believe children should be given the opportunity to share an environment where encouragement and positive images are consistent and meaningful.
Sunflowers is a purpose built, single floor nursery with large spacious play rooms and is fully wheelchair accessible throughout. The nursery has good quality resources and equipment creating stimulating areas alongside dens and cosy spaces for rest and quiet play ensures children engage fully in our warm, welcoming environment. The nursery has large outside play areas accessed from the play rooms, children have many opportunities to develop in all areas of the foundation stage both indoors and out.
All access and individual needs regarding the physical environment will be met.
Our Special Educational Needs and Disability Coordinator (SENDco) is Dawn Ashman. Dawn has worked at Sunflowers since 1999 and has been the co-ordinator since 2001. In that time her knowledge and skills have increased greatly due to training and experience gained through the job role it's self. Dawn has supported many families over the years and takes pride in the fact that her and the staff team's support has decreased the stress and strains that families can face when their child/children have additional needs. Dawn can provide many services to families, these are:working with the child/children and family with-in the home (Flying Start)
working with the child/children at the setting in small groups providing a nurturing environment. (Nurture Group/Theraplay)
Dawn will lead and organise meetings with families and other professionals ensuring the needs of the child and family are met and discussed in one meeting instead of lots of meetings ensuring information is shared together. (Lead Professional)
Dawn can help with complicated paper work and form filling ensuring that the correct support is provided. When your child is ready to move onto another setting including school the paper work your child will need will also in place. (Referrals, Targets, Common Assessments, Transitions, Education, Health and Care plans)The staff team is also very knowledgeable about your child/children. The key person who has built good relationships with the child and families will also attend meetings with you as a support. Staff will tend any specific training for medical needs.
All key persons will observe their children on a daily basis and record any monitor progress made. If a key person or any other member of staff has cause for concern about any of the children at Sunflowers Day Nursery the following procedure will take place.
The key person will act as an advisor discussing concerns/observations with the manager and the SENDco (special educational needs and Disability co-ordinator) these concerns will then be discussed with parents/carers. Observation and monitoring of the child will begin graduated SEN support may be put in place, Support and Targets will be agreed by parents/carers, the SENDco and Key person. If necessary the SENDco will refer the child to other professionals if concerns continue. At the support package will be reviewed and all professionals involved will contribute to it's content. All issues relating to special needs and Disability are dealt with on an individual basis and in relation to the individual child's needs. Where Care Plans, Interventions or Risk Assessments are required, the Nursery will ensure that all requirements are fully met before the Child can be left in our care. The Nursery commits to making Reasonable Adjustments to support our ethos towards inclusion.
Children with additional needs and their families will be supported fully by the Nursery; we aim to provide a nursery where integration is possible with the assurance of good access, support, expertise, and team work.
Effectiveness of our practices will be reviewed monitored and evaluated using feedback forms and questionnaires, this process will take account of views from Children, Parents/Carers, Staff and other supporting agencies all issues will be addressed by creating action plans to improve.
When your child is leaving our setting either to move to another early Years provider or going on to school information continues to be shared as a team.
A meeting will be organised to share information about your child's needs and hopefully put any anxieties to rest
New key Person/ Teacher will be invited to Sunflowers Day Nursery to meet your child in their familiar environment.
Your child's key person will attend the new setting with your child so that they have a familiar person with them, photo books will be made of the setting including their key person/teacher picture, where they will hang their coats, toilets etc, for your child to look through at home. All relevant paper work will be shared or completed.
We hope that this has given you a small insight to the vast knowledge and skills that the staff Team at Sunflowers Day Nursery can provide you and your child/children. We offer you an open invitation to contact us and discuss your child's needs we look forward to being part of your child's journey.
Every child, with their own mountain to climb
Special needs and inclusion policy equality of opportunity
Sunflowers Day Nursery recognizes and welcomes all new and existing legalisation and codes of practice produced by appropriate commissions for the promotion of equal opportunities for all including the SEND code of practice, Statutory EYFS framework 2021 and the Equality Act 2010. Sunflowers Day Nursery is committed to the integration of children with special needs ( in compliance of the Disability, Discrimination act 1995)and fully believe all children should be given the opportunity to share in an environment where encouragement and positive images are consistent.
Sunflowers Day Nursery will ensure that managerial staff will provide new and relevant legislation as to up date all staff in this area.
Sunflowers Day Nursery will ensure:
-That all children with SEN get the Support they need
-Children with SEN will engage in the activities of the nursery alongside children who do not have SEN.
-Children with a Disability get the support they need and have equality of opportunity in our setting.
-That a designated person is responsible for co-coordinating SEN provision. SEN coordinator (SENco).
-All Parent/Carers will be informed when additional provision is being made for their child.
-The implementation of our SEN policy
Procedure
All key persons will observe their children on a daily basis and record and monitor progress made, records of the children development will be recorded in the child’s learning diary.
An overview of each child’s development is recorded on the Central Record of Children’s Development and alongside Formative assessments such as the 2yr old check will support the keyperson and SENco to identify any areas where children are not meeting their mile stones.
All development will be discussed with the Parent/Carer and parents views and information about the child within their home environment will be considered at all times.
In this event the following procedures and Graduated SEN Support will take place-
1) The key person will act as co-ordinator and discuss concerns/observations with the manager and the SENCO (special educational needs co-ordinator) these concerns will then be discussed with parents/carers.
2) SEN Support such as Observation, monitoring and the development of achievable targets including an IEP (individual education plan) it’s contents will be decided by parents/carers SENCO and Key person.
3) If necessary the SENCO will refer the child to other professionals if concerns continue. At this point all professionals and Parent/carers will meet together to discuss progress and action’s (Team around the child meetings).
4) All issues relating to special needs with are dealt with on an individual basis and in relation to the individual child's needs.
Where Care Plans, Interventions or Risk Assessments are required, the Nursery will ensure that all requirements are fully met before the Child can be left in our care. The Nursery commits to making Reasonable Adjustments to support our ethos towards inclusion.
Children with special needs and their families will be supported fully by the Nursery, we aim to provide a nursery where integration is possible with the assurance of good access, support, expertise, and team work.
Effectiveness of our practices will be reviewed monitored and evaluated using feedback forms and questionnaires, this process will take account of views from Children, Parents, Carers, Staff and other supporting agencies and issues will be addressed by creating action plans to improve.
*Accessibility plan available on request.
Nursery SENCO- Dawn Ashman
Promoting Positive Behaviour
Sunflowers promotes safety, care and respect for each other. Children who behave inappropriately, e.g. by kicking or biting will be removed temporarily from the area to allow them to regulate and be able to express their feelings, they wil be supported to understand that their behaviour was unkind.
The child who has been Hurt/upset will be comforted and the adult will confirm that the other child's behavior is not acceptable. We will acknowledge that the perpetrator may feel angry or sad and will help the child to understand it is not he/she that we dislike but the behaviour. The child will be encouraged to apologise for their actions. How a particular type of behavior is handled will depend on the child and the individual circumstances. Emotion coaching strategies will be used.
Parents will be informed of any changes in behaviour, although the behaviour will have been dealt with at the time, we feel that close contact with parents will help to develop continuity of care and challenging behaviour will be controlled more easily.
In the event of their being ongoing issues with behaviour parents will be involved in creating an Individual My Plan. This plan facilitates strategies on managing behaviour and the needs of the child it can involve other professionals from which we seek advice or to whom we refer.
Advice regarding types of Behaviours such as Biting can be provided.
If it is necessary for a child to be restrained for their own safety or for the physical safety of others we will fully document our actions and consult with parents as to the cause of the restraint, safe restraint techniques will be used at all time.
All action taken by the staff members will be dealt with sensitively, staff will remain calm and will explain their reasons for their actions to the children involved. AT NO STAGE WILL PHYSICAL SANCTIONS BE USED OR THREATENED.
Bullying of any kind will not be tolerated at the nursery, and will be dealt with promptly, however we fully acknowledge that all parties involved in bullying may need support.
All the staff team access Behaviour management training via B.A.N.E.S early year training workshops or via in house training, the value of the training is overseen by the Behaviour Management coordinator. Any additional training received by the Behaviour Management coordinator is shared with the staff team at appropriate times such as staff meetings.
Managers will be informed promptly of any behaviour issues within the nursery, and have the right to exclude a child from nursery either temporarily or on a permanent basis. This will occur only if it is felt that the child's behaviour endangers others or parents are not willing to work with the nursery or other professionals in managing the behaviour issues.
Behavior management issues are overseen by: Dawn Ashman
Umbrella Risk Assessment And Risk Benefit
Daily- Area’s within the nursery will be checked for hazards, broken toys and for the safety of equipment. Outside checks will also happen each time the children are entering the outside areas , any concerns or identified hazards will be reported immediately, and documented by the Managers or Deputy Manager. Managers will ensure all concerns are dealt with promptly; children will not have access to the area until it is considered safe.
(Checks conducted by a visual inspection by a qualified staff member on duty, checks are to be conducted before the nursery opens, outside checks will be conducted before the children leave the building.)
Monthly-an in-depth room check and inspection of equipment will happen each month, these checks are fully documented and will be also used to identify what resources need to be purchased or replaced.
Yearly-A Health and Safety Statement will be updated yearly. The statement will fully examine the Nursery as a whole, this will include a Hazard Analysis this document in written by the nursery managers and can be viewed in the family room.
Risk-Benefit analysis is the comparison of the risk of a situation to its related benefits.
Factors considered will be-
The likelihood of coming to harm
The severity of Harm
The benefits, rewards or outcomes of the activity.
Were a Risk Benefit Analysis is undertaken, the written analysis will be recorded in the Health and Safety Hazard Analysis kept in the family room. New Risk will be reported to the Health and Safety coordinators Maxine Neale and Louise Johnson who will undertake and Manage Risk Benefit assessments.
Lost/Uncollected Children
*The parent will be contacted. In the event of a parent not being able to be contacted the nursery will call other numbers provided to us by the parent when completing the nursery information sheets.
*If confirmed that a parent or named adult will be unable to collect for some time two members of staff must remain with the child. A senior staff member must be present at all times.
*Under no circumstances will the child be taken from the nursery
*On arrival of the parent the date, name, and period of lateness will be noted in the nursery diary.
*The Duty team or emergency duty team will be contacted if a parent cannot be reached after one hour of the due collection time.
Persistent lateness may result in exclusion from the nursery.
LOST CHILDREN
Sunflowers day nursery endeavors to provide a safe and secure environment incorporating both adequate supervision and secure premises. Security is assessed and maintained any issues of concern will be dealt with promptly.
In the unlikely event of a lost child or a child not being located on the premises the following procedure will be followed:
1) A full search of the premises will be made if a child cannot be located.
2) All available staff will take and active role in:
-Finding a possible exit used
-Ascertaining the length of time the child has been missing
3) Staff will use the information gathered to search outside the nursery premises.
4) The police will be notified and all relevant information given
5) Parents/carers will be notified and asked to return to the nursery to await news. (an adult should remain at the family home if in walking distance).
The nursery will conduct a full investigation into any incident and disciplinary action will take place if it is felt necessary. Any parent aware of a security risk should notify the nursery management immediately.
Medicines
*Medicines must be stored in their original containers, clearly labeled and inaccessible to children. Medicines at sunflowers will be clearly labeled with the child's name and stored in the bathroom. Some medicines maybe stored in a locked cupboard if necessary.
*Medicines are not administered unless a doctor has prescribed them for that child or a medical professional has given advice to administer pain relief medications.
*The parent must fill in a medication form and give written permission to administer any medication. Medication will be administered by a senior staff member and be witnessed by another member of staff.
*Written records are kept of all medicines administered to children and parents sign the medication form to acknowledge the medication being received.
*If administration of prescription medication requires technical/ medical knowledge then individual training will be given from a qualified health professional. Training will be specific to individual need. Children may not be left in our care without all relevant skills/knowledge.
*Medication forms will be kept in the child's file.
*Staff will support children with ongoing medical needs and an effective management system will be devised with parent/carers to support individual needs.
*Any children starting Sunflowers with any existing conditions or allergies must provide a doctors letter confirming a diagnosis and clear guidance on managing the condition or allergy.
All staff have a current Pediatric First Aid Certificate
Staff Treatment
In the event of a situation where parties are unable to maintain an appropriate manner with the staff team they will be asked to leave the premises.
It will be advised that initial contact be then made to the nursery managers to help to resolve any outstanding issues.
Where a complaint is made the complaints procedure will be followed.
If it is felt after all mediation is exhausted that the staff team is at any risk of further abuse, the managers withhold the right to terminate the placement of the child and exclude the family from attending the nursery.
No Smacking
Sunflowers day nursery is a NO SMACKING nursery.
We are happy to give advice and support to parents/carers who would like to
Find out about positive parenting and the methods available for dealing with challenging children.
Parents and Partners
Sunflowers fully acknowledge the importance of working with parents to ensure the best care for children, the nursery will gather information from parents, maintain open lines of communication and share information at all times.
We welcome Parents and carers comments and feedback. Nursery staff are available to discuss any issues with parents and wish to respect families’ individuality and values.
As part of our nursery community we will offer lots of opportunities for parents and carers to be involved in their child’s learning, alongside that we like to celebrate the diversity of our nursery community by representing our families and extended families in images around the nursery and in its learning environment to ensure all our families feel valued and welcomed.
As formative and informative assessments occur parents and carers will be invited to be a valued part of assessment including Learning journals, 2yr checks and moving on documents.
Information about the nursery and it community can be found on our Facebook page.
*Please be advised staff members are not permitted to babysit for current families attending the nursery.
Arrival and Departure
Visitors will not be left unaccompanied whilst in the nursery building.
Parents are required to ring the inner door to their child's room, parents and children will be greeted at the door by a staff member. Parents are reminded to not open access doors for other parents as this presents a security risk.
Staff are required to be on the premises 10/15 minutes before their shift begins, however staff are not permitted to take charge of children prior to or after the nursery opening hours.
Please see uncollected child policy
Confidentiality
Certain information must be recorded for all children on admission to the nursery. All staff will respect the privacy of the children and families in our care. At no point should any information be shared without prior permission from the parents/guardians. (Exception-when a child is at risk of serious harm).
At times the managers will be privy to certain information regarding families this information will only be shared with the staff team if it is felt necessary to give the best possible care to the child.
Staff/ family records are stored securely, permission must be sought to access files,
A breach of confidentiality will be dealt with seriously and in lines with our disciplinary procedures.
Data Protection (GDPR)
The nursery fully complies with the Data Protection Regulations GDPR, under these regulations will ensure that we act in a fair and lawful manner, information will only be used for the purpose for which it was gained; and only when necessary.
The information will be accurate throughout and only kept for as long as necessary. Information will be stored securely and we remain accountable for the information we hold.
A privacy notice will be issued to all families and we will give transparent guidance on the information we hold and its purpose, all written consents will be sought. Within this statement we will clarify the rights of all the clients using the nursery.
Sun Awareness
It is important to protect children from the harmful rays of the sun, the nursery requires parents to complete a sun protection form to either give permission for the nursery to apply sun cream or for the child to come to the nursery wearing all day sun cream protection.
The children will be assured shaded play areas and a reduction of time in direct sunlight during particularly sunny days, also we are aware that children can easily become dehydrated and therefore children will be encourage to drink plenty of fluids.
Children will require sun hats and we ask for these to be brought daily.
Emergency Closure Policy
In exceptional circumstances the nursery may be forced to close. In ANY event of closure for any reasonable cause the nursery will not be liable to refund parents for loss of sessions. The Managers decision is final and closure will only be made if absolutely necessary.
In the event of heavy snow, the managers will decide if in their opinion it is unsafe to remain open or indeed to open the nursery for business. They will consider the staff to children ratios and how they may be affected by Staff members being unable to get to the nursery and whether roads are safe to travel on.
*A closure period of more than 2 consecutive days will be refunded at 50% cost.
Bereavement Policy
Death is something that we don't like to think about and so when we are faced with it, we often feel under-prepared. It is of course impossible to be fully prepared as the impact of a death will depend on several factors such as……
-The role that the deceased person had in the nursery
-How well known they were in the local community
-Circumstances surrounding the death, particularly suicide or other violent deaths.
However we will focus on two areas within this policy the role of the nursery and the need to respect the needs of a bereaved child.
The following is general guidelines to what the nursery role will be, the managers will take overall responsibility for managing this role, and will meet to take stock of the situation as soon as possible.
Send Card/Letter of condolence to child and family
Inform children/Staff/ and parents of the situation
(As agreed with the family)
Support maybe sought from relevant professionals if deemed appropriate.
Arrange to see child/family at home or nursery to decide what level of support is needed
Nominate a staff member who will offer ongoing support
Ensure significant dates entered on child's records/register
Ensure regular liaison with staff to identify any problem areas
Offer support to staff as necessary
Keep regular contact with family
Be aware that grief is a lifelong process and can re-surface at any time.
*It maybe necessary to arrange a separate phone line for the nursery to deal with concerned parents etc.
Respecting the bereaved child
We wish to support our children fully and to do this we have provided the following document, which we feel, represents the needs of a bereaved child and what we hope to offer our children.
Charter for bereaved children
Bereavement support
· Bereaved children are entitled to receive the support they need.
Express feelings and thoughts
· Bereaved children should feel comfortable expressing all feelings and thoughts associated with grief, such as anger, sadness, guilt and anxiety and to be helped to find appropriate ways to do this.
Remember the person who has died
· Bereaved children have a right to remember the person who has died for the rest of their lives if they wish to do so. This may involve re-living memories (both the good and the difficult) so that the person becomes a comfortable part of the child’s continuing life story.
Education and information
· Bereaved children are entitled to receive answers to their questions and information that clearly explains what has happened, why it has happened and what will happen next.
Appropriate and positive response from schools or colleges
· Bereaved children can benefit from receiving help and understanding from their teachers and fellow students.
Voice in important decisions
· Bereaved children should be asked if they wish to be involved in important decisions that have an impact on their lives (such as planning the funeral and remembering anniversaries).
Everyone involved
· Bereaved children should receive support which includes their parent(s) or carers and siblings and which respects each child’s confidentiality.
Meeting others
· Bereaved children can benefit from the opportunity to meet other children who have had similar experiences.
Established routines
· Bereaved children should be able to choose to continue previously enjoyed activities and interests.
Not to blame
· Bereaved children should be helped to understand they are not responsible and not to blame for the death.
Tell their story
· Bereaved children have a right to tell their story in a variety of ways and for those stories to be heard, read or seen by those important to them.
Outings Procedure
The outing and the journey to and from the nursery will be fully risk assessed and a 'practice' run will take place by a nursery manager or senior staff member to ensure all risks have been noted and addressed.
Attention will be given to the following areas
Adult: child ratios
Nature of outing
The need to exceed the child: adult ratios to ensure safety
Fully stocked first aid equip and first-aider
Contact details for parents
Parent’s permission
Mobile phone
If transport is used we will ensure we have considered
-Insurance details
-List of named drivers
-M-O-T certificate
-Parents’ permission
-Safety belt/child seats
This list is not exhaustive and depends on the nature of the outing a risk assessment will be documented for any outing.
Emergency Staffing
In the event of a staff member being unwell the Nursery manager will ensure cover is provided.
Actions will take consideration to-
- Regrouping
- Reorganising rooms
- Redeploying suitable staff to provide a consistent experience for the child.
A bank of relief staff are available for emergency staffing and maybe called upon with short notice, the nursery ensures a supernumerary staff member within the office who are also available able to support staffing.
In the unlikely event of an illness affecting several staff members, it maybe necessary to reduce the number of children attending the nursery, this will be done initially on a voluntary basis and all fees will be refunded.
Sunflowers day nursery will under no circumstance operate under the staffing levels, which are deemed appropriate to ensure child safety.