Glenfall Preschool Policies &

Procedures 2020/21

Contents:

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1. Glenfall Preschool Ethos2. Introduction

2.1 Allocation of Key Person Policy3. Safeguarding and Promoting Children’s Welfare

3.1 Safe Care and Policy Statement3.2 Safeguarding Children Procedures3.3 Lost Child Policy3.4 Uncollected Child Policy3.5 Sick Child Policy3.6 Photography and Mobile Phone Policy3.7 Supervision of Outdoor Activities3.8 Outdoor Play Policy3.9 Adult Behaviour Management3.10 Behaviour Management Procedure3.11 Behaviour and Response3.12 Equal Opportunity in Attendance3.13 Equal Opportunity in Admissions3.14 Admissions Policy and Waiting List

3.15 Equal Opportunity in Staff Employment and Development3.16 Student Procedure Policy3.17 Diversity in Curriculum3.18 Special Educational Needs Policy3.19 Administration of Medicine Policy3.20 Sun Protection Policy3.21 Clothing and Footwear3.22 Intimate Care Policy3.23 Food and Drink Policy3.24 Smoking and Alcohol Policy3.25 Hygiene Policy

4. Suitable People4.1 Safer Recruitment4.2 Supervision Policy4.3 Volunteer and Parental Involvement

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4.4 Requirements of Early Years Practitioners and Committee Members4.5 Childminding Services Policy4.6 Allegations Management Procedure (whistle blowing)4.7 Disciplinary Grievance and Appeal Process (whistle blowing)

5. Suitable Premises, Environment and Equipment5.1 Responsibility for Health and Safety5.2 Lone Worker Statement5.3 Accident Procedure5.5Risk Assessments5.5 Fire Safety Policy5.6 Evacuation Policy 5.7 Preventing Terrorism and Radicalisation Policy5.8 Safe Use of Information Communication Technology5.9 Acceptable Use of Social Networking Sites5.10 Manual Handling

6. Organisation6.1 Payment Policy6.2 Debt Recovery Policy6.3 Complaint Policy

7. Documentation7.1 Record Keeping7.2 Confidentiality and Data Protection Policy

1.Our Ethos - Mission Statement

At Glenfall Preschool we believe that we never stop learning from the children we are privileged to work with. Our aim is to continually enable quality interactions, listen to the child's voice, support ideas and extend their learning experiences. Our free-flow environment creates stimulating play with deep levels of engagement and concentration.  We ensure every child develops and grows by building resilience, self-esteem and a love of lifelong learning.

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Families are the first educators for their child; we work closely with you to share learning experiences and next steps in your child's development. You know your child better than anyone and your input into your child's learning is highly valued.

The research behind our practice - We love to reflect and research to make our practice better. Here are few influences we follow: Reggio Emilia, Friedrich Froebel, Suzanne Zeedky and Jools Page. We also have strong links with the University of Gloucestershire and the University of Worcestershire.  Quality interactions are key and we are a Thriving Language setting, for more information see www.thrivinglanguage.co.uk

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2. IntroductionWe are Glenfall Preschool, we are a registered charity and are run by a committee of volunteers. Our Early Years team consists of:Vicky McCormack – Early Years LeadRachel Russell – Admin ManagerVane Dean – Deputy Early Years LeadVictoria Ledger- Early Years PractitionerHelen Fagan - Bank Staff

In the entrance to Glenfall Preschool we have a parents notice board highlighting forthcoming events to keeps you up to date, a copy of our Ofsted registration certificate and other relevant information. Throughout the preschool you will find photographs showing some of the activities the children have been participating in. These policies are available on request via email. Please provide your email address to glenfallpreschool@gmail.com

2.1 Allocation of Key Person PolicyIn line with the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework 2017: ‘Positive Relationships’ a Key Person system is in place at Glenfall Preschool. Whilst each child has a continuous involvement with every member of staff, all children will be assigned to a Key Person. The Key Person is the practitioner who helps the child to become familiar with the preschool and helps them to feel confident and safe within the setting. The Key Person will develop a genuine bond with the child and their family by meeting the child’s need and responding sensitively to their feelings, ideas and behaviour. We operate a Key Buddy system so that either your child’s Key Person or their Key Buddy will be with your child and available for you to communicate to each day.

3. Safeguarding and Promoting Children’s Welfare

3.1Safe Care and Policy StatementGlenfall Preschool is a safeguarding community and is a partnership between the children and their families/carers, volunteers and team members. We plan to provide an environment that ensures children are safe from potential abuse, including bullying.Whilst caring for the children we will ensure that all children are able to feel safe, secure and valued in our Preschool. We believe that all of the children should feel empowered and respected in their place of learning and we aim to encourage

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them to take pride in acquiring new skills and becoming independent. As Practitioners we will naturally show the children affection and will respond to their emotional needs in an appropriate fashion. Children will never be expected to show affection if they don’t want to and their affection will never be rejected but received in an appropriate manner. The child's welfare is paramount as we work together to give children the very best start in life. In all aspects of our provision our duty of care is to the children. When we have a concern, all actions need to be determined with the child's best interests in mind, respecting their rights and reinforcing the adult’s responsibilities to them. We adhere to the national policy of multi-agency collaboration and if necessary will seek advice or clarification with our colleagues in Health, Safeguarding, Education or Specialist areas in order to meet the needs of each individual child and their families. Parents will be notified of any such discussions.

3.2 Safeguarding Children ProceduresAll Glenfall Preschool team and committee members receive a copy of the child protection policy upon employment, or election to the committee. All team members attend 3 yearly updates update/refresher training on how to implement procedures. Becky Poulter Jewson and Vicki Willis are the Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSL) for the setting. We take safeguarding very seriously and receive regular emails updates for the Gloucestershire Safeguarding Board (GSCB) and undertake safeguarding audits of our procedures on a regular basis. We believe that transparency in our practice is paramount to safeguarding children. Staff also discuss highlighted concerns at the evaluation of each session, as well as safeguarding issues these might include any issue that poses a risk to children or adults safety within the preschool environment.Good relationships with parents/carers are very important, to support this the Preschool team will:

Exchange information regularly about all aspects of the child’s life. Mention any injures or worries to the parents/carers on the day they are

observed and fill out an off-site accident form. Make every effort to appear non-judgemental in line with child protection

training when having a discussion with parents.If there is a specific concern about the child becoming exposed to further significant harm or abuse team members will not discuss this with the parents/carer but will highlight concerns with the DSL. Observing children is an integral part of our daily routine. All observations will be dated, written and kept confidential. A safeguarding folder is kept securely within the setting. Particular concerns relating to safeguarding aspects are recorded and dealt with appropriately by the DSL.Glenfall Preschool works in partnership with Gloucestershire Safeguarding Children Board (GSCB) for the protection of children. We are aware of the Gloucestershire Child Protection Procedures, as listed within these policies. We also refer to the live document ‘Working Together to Safeguard Children’ and attend to GSCB alerts as necessary.

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GSCB stipulate that all individuals working with children and families have a duty and responsibility to report any allegations and concerns of a child protection nature, which come to their attention. All child welfare concerns need to be raised with the Children and Families Helpdesk 01452 426565. When contact is made you will be redirected to the appropriate social work team, determined by the area the child lives, where you will be able to speak directly with a social worker.When such a concern is raised the following action is required:

1. Discuss concerns with the DSL 2. Complete a written record of the nature of the circumstances surrounding

the concern including any previous held (Ongoing Record)3. Contact Children and Families Helpdesk for advice is there are concerns

but are unsure on how to proceed.4. Contact Children and Families Helpdesk when you are clear that an

assessment is required.5. If it is felt that concerns have been left unresolved you can contact the

Safeguarding Children Services on 01452 426565If the practitioner/adult still has a concern after speaking to the DSL the practitioner/adult should phone the front door helpdesk on 01452 426565 to discuss their concerns further.

3.3 Lost Child PolicyIn the unlikely event of a child going missing either at the Preschool or while on an outing, the following steps will be taken:

Carry out a thorough search of premises and surrounding area, if the child remains missing the person in charge will:

Contact the police Contact parent/carer or emergency contacts for the child Inform Preschool chairperson Inform Social Services Inform Ofsted Security procedures will be immediately reviewed after any incident and

the findings publicised to all parties involved. Meanwhile other children in the setting will be looked after by the remaining team members, reassured and distracted by situation. Prevention is key; Glenfall Preschool will ensure that the correct adult/child ratio is enforced at all times with the well -being of the children being of paramount importance.

3.4 Uncollected Child PolicyParents/carers are required to contact the Preschool if they are not able to collect their child at the end of a session. If a child has not been collected at the end of a session and no communication has been received, then the following steps will be taken whilst two members of staff remain at the premises with the child:

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Contact parent/carer and then emergency contacts for child. If no contact can be made.

Contact police on 101 Inform Preschool chairperson Inform Social Services Inform Ofsted

3.5 Sick Child PolicyThe health and well-being of all children attending the group are paramount and we ensure this through the following measures:No child or adult suffering from an infectious illness, or who appears to be suffering from such is allowed to attend the Preschool. Please see below common infectious illnesses and their exclusion period from preschool.

Symptoms Exclusion Period from Preschool

Chickenpox  Fever, Rash/Spots with blisters 

Children must remain at home until all of the blisters have scabbed over, and the child is well in themselves. Usually 5 days after initial onset. 

Hand Foot and Mouth   

Headaches, fever, sore throat, small blisters in month and on the tongue, blisters on the palm of hands and soles of feet that may last 7-10 days. 

None. Although the child may be unwell and it is recommended that they do not attend preschool until their symptoms improve 

Impetigo  

Rash with red blisters/sores that excrete yellow fluid 

24 hours after antibiotic treatment has started.  

Measles  

High fever, cough, sneezing, swollen and runny eyes. Spots with white centres in the mouth. Red blotchy rash on the head and body 

Children must be excluded from childcare and contact with others non family for 4 days after the rash appears. Incidents of measles must be reported to the local authority. 

Slapped cheek  

Fever, runny nose, sore throat, headache, stomach ache and general feeling of unwell. Distinctive rash on face and later on body 

None 

Sickness and Diarrhoea  Nausea and vomiting, Diarrhoea, Abdominal cramping, Mild fever, Headache, Muscle aches and Fatigue 

48 hours after last episode of sickness or diarrhoea 

Flu (influenza)  Fever, cough, sneezing, runny nose, headache,

Until the child is well 

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body aches and pain, exhaustion and sore throat.  

Common Cold  Sore throat, blocked/runny nose, sneezing and a cough 

None 

Whooping Cough  Starts with cold like symptoms. Followed by bouts of extreme coughing that can cause vomiting 

Five days after antibiotic treatment has started 

Croup  Distinctive bark like cough, hoarse voice, difficulty breathing. Often worse at night 

If the case of croup is mild the child can still attend preschool. Otherwise until the child is well 

Conjunctivitis  Teary, red, itchy eyes. Swollen Eyelids. Yellow thick discharge especially at night. Possible fever 

24 hours after antibiotic treatment has started or after the child has seen a primary health professional 

Head Lice  Scratching that is often worse at night. Rash on the back of the neck. Visible head lice or nits 

None 

Meningitis Viral and Bacterial 

A bruise like rash, a high temperature (fever) of 38C (100.4F) or above, feeling and being sick, irritability and a lack of energy. A headache, aching muscles and joints, breathing quickly cold hands and feet. Pale, mottled skin, a stiff neck, confusion, a dislike of bright lights, drowsiness, fits (seizures)    

Viral-None Bacterial-Until Recovered 

Mumps  Fever, Headache, Swollen and painful salivary glands 

Five Days from onset 

Threadworms  Itchiness around anus and vagina especially at night, sleeplessness, irritability  

Child can return to preschool after treatment 

Tonsillitis  

High fever, coughing, headache, earache, feeling sick, feeling tired, swollen lymph glands 

None 

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If a child becomes ill during the course of the session, the parent/carer or emergency contact is notified as soon as possible and is asked to collect the child immediately to take the child home. Whilst awaiting collection, a sick child is isolated from other children in the group wherever possible, made comfortable and supervised by a member of the team.

3.6 Photograph and Mobile Phone Policy Permission for taking photographs of children will be obtained on admission to the Preschool. Best practice ensures all team, student and volunteer mobiles are kept in a box within a lockable cupboard. The Preschool mobile is in the cupboard and taken out on to the field and trips, though it should be noted that this phone cannot be used for taking photographs and is not linked to the internet and is for emergency use or when necessary for asking for help. Glenfall Preschool uses an iPod to record photographs of child development. We store the iPod in a secure cupboard and the photographs are downloaded onto the Preschool laptop which is password protected. The Preschool iPod is used to capture images and video recordings of quality interactions. With permission these are used on social media however the children are not identified and their face will not be shown. Glenfall Preschool reminds parents at events such as a nativity, party or theatre production that photographs they take will also contain images of other children and staff and that photographs or videos they take are for their own personal use and not to be posted on any social networking or file sharing sites, thereby protecting the privacy of all involved.

3.6 Mobile Phone Policy and handbag policy continued.

All Early Years Team, Committee Members, Students and Visitors to the setting.

1. Please ensure mobile phones are placed in the box in the cupboard before the start of session.

2. Urgent calls can be directed to 01242234055 3. Please only access your mobile phone out of work hours or on your break

away from the setting.4. Mobile phones with camera access should never be used in setting when

the children are present.5. Visitors and Parents in session put handbags in the allocated space in the

preschool.6. If a Parent or Visitor needs to take a call they can do so outside of the

preschool gates.

The above is to help keep children safe from harm and to safeguard their wellbeing.

3.7 Supervision of Outdoor Activities

Children are given the option to play inside or outside throughout most of their Preschool day. Waterproof clothing and wellies and a common sense approach to outdoor play ensure that children are appropriately dressed for whatever circumstances. Children will be supervised by team members when doing

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outside activities. If the weather is extreme and being outside presents a risk to the safety children will remain indoors where staff will also be present.

3.8 Outdoor Play Policy

Outdoor Play is essential for all aspects of a child’s development. It can provide children with experiences which enable them to develop intellectually, emotionally, socially and physically. In doing so it provides a rich context for the development of their language and encourages positive attitudes towards a healthy lifestyle and improves mental health. At the centre of our ethos is the belief that by encouraging children to embrace the outside world we are helping future generations to understand the natural world we live in. Teaching children from a young age the importance of respecting our planet, understanding food and life cycles and awareness of sustainability will help nurture positive attitudes for generations to come. Valuing their environment as their ‘third teacher’ (with parent and practitioner being first and second) early years learning can shape environmental attitudes, knowledge and actions, equipping future generations with the tools they need in our ever changing global situation.

Glenfall Preschool places an extremely high importance on using outdoor experiences in all aspects of their planning to support children’s learning. The Characteristics of Effective Learning: Play and Exploring, Active Learning and Creativity and Critical Thinking form strong foundations for the environment we create and the experiences we plan. Each and every area of learning is covered in abundance within the planned outdoor environment and practitioners are constantly watching, listening and making adaptations about the best way to take on children’s learning and understanding.

Children’s safety in the outdoor environment both inside and outside of the setting is managed effectively. Children are taught the skills they need to keep themselves safe and a common sense approach is used and modelled with regard to managing risks. Both the indoor and outside environment is risk assessed for hazards each day. Visits out of setting are planned using a detailed plan including a risk assessment and safety check. Staff ratios are maintained at all times with additional staff on setting visits to ensure ratios can be maintained in any eventuality.

Glenfall Preschool ensures that equality of opportunity outside is covered by the following:

Ensuring that all children have the ability or the support they need to play, explore and experience all outdoor learning opportunities.

Monitoring and observing children’s use of the outdoor area, reflecting on provision to ensure it meets the needs and interests of the children.

Respecting any cultural issues or preferences that arise from outdoor play experiences.

Outdoor play experiences happen all year round and in every weather at Glenfall Preschool, torrential rain is simply another learning opportunity. Waterproofs and 11

wellies are needed daily to take full advantage of the range of outdoor and messy/sensory activities on offer.

3.9 Adult Behaviour ManagementAdult anti-social behaviour of any kind is not tolerated within Glenfall Preschool. This includes swearing, bullying, physically hurting children or members of the team and any other forms of harm towards others. Persistent anti-social behaviour will be discussed with the individual adult and reported to the committee. In severest of cases, further action may be taken, and may result in exclusion from the Pre-School.

Physical punishment is never used by the Preschool team and restraint is never used as a punishment, however physical intervention may be appropriate to prevent an accidental injury or damage as is common with very young children. An adult may need to restrain a child, incidents such as this are logged and the parent notified. Glenfall Preschool aims to be positive, fair and controlled in the ethos it adopts and aims to provide an environment in which anti-social behaviour is rarely encountered. Rules as such are kept to a minimum and are as simple as possible, recognising the developmental level and comprehension of the children attending.

Key principles for all adults at Glenfall Preschool include: Understanding and following all policies and procedures Being professional Listening Empathising Communicating Trusting each other Taking responsibility Being sensitive Having patience Having respect Developing interpersonal skills Being self-aware Remembering you are part of an unique team

Adults working or helping at Preschool will need to: Have common aims Listen to each other Be prepared to negotiate Develop a common ethos Be respectful of each other's viewpoints Abide by policy decisions Take advantage of training opportunities and promote continued

professional development (CPD) Commit to always trying to improve upon previous best

All Preschool staff, volunteers and committee members must remember that:

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It is important never to gossip about any child or adult in the group It is important never to discuss one adult with another It is important not to make value judgments about any child or adult

involved in the group Some information will need to be shared with the whole staff, e.g. Diet,

allergy, religious issues. If you are not sure if information needs to be kept confidential, check with the Early Years Lead before you discuss it with other members of the team.

3.10 Behaviour Management Procedure

Becky Poulter Jewson is responsible for all aspects of Behaviour Management.

Glenfall Preschool believes that children flourish best when their personal social and emotional needs are met and where there are clear and developmentally appropriate expectations for their behaviour. Children need to learn to consider the views and feelings, needs and rights of others and the impact that their behaviour has on people, places and objects. The team will lead by example, support, teach and encourage children in this developmental task. We require all team members, volunteers and students to use positive strategies for handling any inconsiderate behaviour, helping children to find solutions in ways which are appropriate for the children’s ages and stages of development. When responding to or observing unacceptable behaviour, team members will take the following actions:

Approach Calmly with positive body language and facial expressions Acknowledge feelings Gather information Restate the problem Ask for solution and choose one together Be prepared to give follow-up support

Young children often engage in play that has aggressive themes – such as superhero and weapon play; some children appear pre-occupied with these themes, but their behaviour is not necessarily a precursor to hurtful behaviour or bulling, although it may be inconsiderate at times and may need addressing using the strategies above. In the event that there is a persistent behaviour issue the Preschool Early Years Lead must be informed. All team members will discuss possible strategies to create positive behaviour. In the event of a serious persistent problem, the Glenfall Preschool Early Years Lead, Deputy Lead and Child’s Key Person will contact the parent(s)/carers and will discuss possible reasons for the behaviour. Together, they will try to develop a consistent approach that can be adopted at Preschool/home and other childcare settings. Physical restraint in behaviour circumstances, such as holding, will only be used to prevent physical injury to children or adults and/or serious damage to property. In the event of an incident where a member of the team has deemed it

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necessary to restrain a child, details of this event will be fully documented (what happened, what action was taken and by whom, and the names of witnesses). Parent/carer of the child involved will be informed and required to sign the document. In the case of persistent/harmful/unacceptable behaviours, where there is risk of injury to any individual on the setting’s premises, the Preschool Committee will need to be informed. The Committee will be the authority for all decisions relating to the withdrawal of a place at the setting. Parents/carers retain the right to appeal against any such decision. Guidance on the complaints procedure can be found in section 6.3 of these policies and procedures.

3.11 Behaviour and Response

As a setting we acknowledge considerate behaviour such as kindness and willingness to share. We support each child in developing their self-esteem, confidence and feelings of competence. This is promoted in a number of ways:

We require all steam members, volunteers and students to provide a positive role model of behaviour by treating children, parents and one another with respect, friendliness, care and courtesy.

We provide clear, consistent rules and boundaries and encourage all children to behave in an appropriate way, respecting and caring for each other, adults around them and the equipment.

We do not allow running inside at Preschool so we give clear instructions, which are phrased positively.

We help the children to voice their feelings, and to be aware of the feelings of others.

Rewarding good behaviour – we believe that rewards and praise can be constructive and encourage further effort. Each child needs to feel valued, and praise and approval nurtures good behaviour.

When children behave in inconsiderate ways, we help them to understand the outcomes of their actions and support them in learning how to cope more appropriately.

We do not humiliate children by criticizing them or by using a "naughty chair." We are aware of the lasting harm that can be done by labelling a child.

Redirect, not confront young children: At the first sign of aggressive behaviour or bullying tactics, the child is told

why his or her behaviour is unacceptable. An alternative way of solving the problem is discussed or suggested using language appropriate to the child's understanding.

All team members, students and volunteers understand what constitutes a physical punishment. Physical punishment will not be used at Glenfall Preschool.

It is important to let the child know it is the behaviour that you do not like, not the child.

3.12 Equal Opportunity in Attendance

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Glenfall Preschool is committed to providing equality of opportunity and anti-discriminatory practice for all children and families. Preschool education is a powerful vehicle for transforming values. It can also challenge them. Glenfall Preschool firmly believes that sexism is incompatible with good educational practices for under-fives and place anti-sexism, alongside anti-racism, at the heart of learning through play.

Provide a secure and accessible environment in which all our children can

flourish and in which all contributions are considered and valued. Include and value the contribution of all families to our understanding of

equality and diversity. Provide positive non-stereotyping information about gender roles, diverse

ethnic and cultural groups and disabled people. Improve our knowledge and understanding of issues of anti-discriminatory

practice, promoting equality and valuing diversity. Make inclusion a thread that runs through all of the activities of the

setting.

The legal framework for this policy is:

Equality Act 2010 Children Act 2006 Children and Families Act 2014 Special Educational Needs and Disability Code Of Practice 0-25 Years 2015 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child

3.13 Equal Opportunities in Admissions

Glenfall Preschool is open to all members of the community.

We advertise our service widely. We reflect the diversity of members of our society in our publicity and

promotional materials. We provide information in clear, concise language, whether in spoken or

written form. We will provide information in other languages when necessary. We base our admissions policy on a fair system. We ensure that all our parents are made aware of our equal opportunities

policy. We do not discriminate against a child or their family, or prevent entry to

our setting, on the basis of colour, ethnicity, religion or social background, such as being a member of a travelling community or an asylum seeker.

We do not discriminate against a child with a disability or refuse a child entry to our setting for reasons relating to disability.

We develop an action plan to ensure that people with disabilities can participate successfully in the activities offered by the setting and in the curriculum.

Glenfall Preschool's marketing activities, which include public relations publications and promotional goods, reflect our multi-cultural society and have an anti-racist perspective.

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3.14 Admissions Policy and Waiting List

Spaces at Preschool are allocated fairly and following reasonable criteria. All sessions are available for children from two years of age. Preschool intakes throughout the year and spaces are filled as children require them, when a session reaches full capacity a waiting list is put into place following the criteria below.Children currently attending and continuing into the next academic year will be offered first choice on sessions for the upcoming September. Available sessions after that will be offered to new registrations based on the following criteria:

Is the space available? Are the child’s parents actively involved in the Committee of Glenfall

Preschool? Has the child been identified as ‘in need’ of a Preschool place following an

AY2O Referral or a CAF Assessment? How quickly can the space be taken up? A child who can start immediately

will have priority over a child who cannot start for a term. Locality to the Preschool: local children will be given preference over

children from further afield if all other criteria is equal.

3.15 Equal Opportunity in Staff Employment and Development

Applicants will be considered on the basis of their suitability for the post, with equal opportunity for women, men, black/ethnic minorities, lesbians and gay men and people with disabilities, regardless of marital status, age, gender, race, culture, religious belief or ethnic origin; specifically:

Posts are advertised and all applicants are judged against explicit and fair criteria.

The applicant who best meets the criteria is offered the post, subject to references and checks by the Criminal Records Bureau/DBS. This ensures fairness in the selection process.

All job descriptions include a commitment to equality and diversity as part of their specifications.

We monitor our application process to ensure that it is fair and accessible. We recruit using the guidelines set out in the Safer Recruitment Training.

We actively encourage continued professional development for team members and volunteers to enable them to develop practices which enable all children to flourish.

We review our practices to ensure that we are fully implementing our policy for equality and diversity.

3.16 Student Procedure Policy

All students must follow this procedure: Read Safeguarding and Promoting Children’s Welfare, section 3 of Glenfall

Preschool Policies.

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Please bring you DBS form to your first visit so that the relevant team member can record you DBS reference number

Fill in contact form-Medicine form (information will be kept in the central records file). It is the student’s responsibility to keep this up to date and inform the Preschool of any changes in information.

Please remember that anything that happens in Glenfall Preschool is confidential-please do not discuss anything that you hear at the setting

Please do not post anything on social media relating to Glenfall Preschool. If you break confidentiality you will be asked to leave and your course lead will be contacted-further actions may be taken as required

Medicines-If you have regular medicine to take daily and that you bring with you and may need in an emergency such as an inhaler, please ensure that the other staff know where your bag is and how to administer the medicine.

Allergies-To keep you safe we need to know if you have any allergies. Please ensure that this is on your contact form and that all team members are aware.

Please tell the Early Years Lead/Deputy Early Years Lead if you feel unwell Please do not answer the door to visitors-the early years team will do this. Please always sign in and out Please always put your bag away in the designated area (3.6 of this

document) Always follow the Glenfall Preschool mobile phone policy. (3.6 of this

document) Please do not change the children’s clothes or take them to the toilet Please remember to be respectful towards the children and adults in the

setting If you do not understand something please ask If you have any concerns about the children, parents, carers or team then

please inform the Early Years Lead/Deputy Early Years Lead Please tell the lead/deputy early years lead and write in the diary if you

are going to be absent for any reason It is the students responsibility to keep up to date with changes in

information and any timesheets that require signatures Any meetings that may be require a tutor to visit the setting should be

recorded in the diary after discussion with the Early Years lead/Deputy Early Years Lead. 3.17 Diversity in Curriculum

The curriculum offered in the Glenfall Preschool encourages children to develop positive attitudes to people who are different from themselves. It encourages children to empathise with others and to begin to develop the skills of critical thinking.

We do this by making children feel valued and good about themselves; Ensuring that children have equality of access to learning; Reflecting the widest possible range of communities in the choice of

resources; Avoiding stereotypes or derogatory images in the selection of materials;

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Celebrating a wide range of festivals; Creating an environment of mutual respect and tolerance. Helping children to understand that discriminatory behaviour and remarks

are unacceptable. Ensuring that the curriculum offered is inclusive of children with special

educational needs and children with disabilities; and Ensuring that children whose first language is not English have full access

to the curriculum and are supported in their learning.

Glenfall Preschool will value linguistic diversity and provide opportunities for children to develop and use their home language in their play and learning. This is part of the respect for each child’s cultural background that is central in all early year’s provision. Alongside support in the home language, Glenfall Preschool will provide a range of meaningful contexts in which children have opportunities to develop English.

3.18 Special Educational Needs Policy

Our Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCo) is Becky Poulter JewsonThe objective of this policy is to include and provide an environment in which all children, irrespective of need, to reach their full potential. We aim to adhere to the Equal Opportunities Act 2010 and Special Educational Needs and Disability Code of Practice 0-25 Years 2015. A child has special educational needs if he/she has a learning difficulty which calls for special educational provision to be made for him/her. All children are welcome into Glenfall Preschool whether or not they have any Special Educational Needs.

We ensure our provision is inclusive to all children with special educational needs.

We support parents and children with special educational needs (SEN). We identify the specific needs of children with special educational needs

and meet those needs through a range of SEN strategies. We work in partnership with parents and other agencies in meeting

individual children’s needs. We monitor and review our policy, practice and provision and if necessary

make reasonable adjustments. A child has a learning difficulty if he/she has

A significantly greater difficulty in learning than the majority of the children of the same age or

A disability which either prevents or hinders him/her from making use of educational facilities of a kind provided for children of the same age.

Responsibilities of the SENCo:

Liaising with and advising all members of the team. Coordinating provision for children with SEN Developing strategies to monitor developmental matters. Maintaining an SEN register and overseeing records on all pupils with SEN

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The day to day operation of the SEN policy Liaising with Parents/carers of children with SEN Contributing to training and informing all members of the team of new

developments and issues Liaising with other professionals involved with children with special

educational needs, including transfer arrangements to other settings and schools.

Provide a broad, balanced and differentiated curriculum for all children with special educational needs.

We use a system of planning, implementing, monitoring, evaluating and reviewing My Plans & My Plan + for children with special educational needs.

Responsibilities of the Parents/Carers

We expect that Parents/carers will inform us of any special needs a child has on entering Preschool, so that we can take appropriate action.

We aim to work closely with the parents of children with special educational needs to create and maintain a positive relationship.

We ensure that parents are informed at all stages of the assessment, planning, provision and review of their children’s education.

We are aware of the Special Educational Needs and Disability Code of Practice 0-25 Years 2015 on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs. We follow the graduated approach:

Early Years Action Early Years Action plus Educational Health Care Plan (EHCP)

3.19 Administration of Medicine PolicyThe Glenfall Preschool team do not normally administer medication. Where a child needs regular medication, the parent/carer will be asked to sign a written consent form giving full detail of dosage and times. A qualified first-aider, according to the parents/carers written instructions regarding dosage and times, will be witnessed by another member of the team when giving any medication. If necessary, the preschool team will attend specific training on individual conditions, enabling them to attend to the child’s needs correctly. A record will be kept in the Medicines File in Record Folder of all medication given which then has to be signed by the parent/carer when they collect the child. Any medications will be stored in a secure location which is inaccessible to children.

3.20 Sun Protection Policy

Parents/carers are required to send their children to Preschool with sun cream already applied on days when it is required. Written consent will be obtained from parents/carers in incidents when top up sun cream needs to be applied and a list will be maintained in the group file. Parents/carers should provide their own sun cream.

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Children will be required to wear a sunhat whilst outside on sunny days. Parents/carers are asked to send children to Preschool with a suitable hat. There are additional hats available for those children who do not have proper attire.

3.21 Clothing and Footwear

Children will be required to wear clothing that is appropriate to the temperature and weather when participating in outdoor activities. During cold months parents/carers should provide, coats, hats, scarves and gloves and these will be put on the children as appropriate. In warm, sunny weather, parents/carers need to ensure that children's shoulders are covered and sunhats provided. If a child does not have appropriate clothing for the weather conditions, Preschool will attempt to provide alternative clothing. Children will be required to wear sensible shoes, preferably close-toed, when playing outside this is in order for our outdoor learning garden to be accessed for the every sessions. We ask that parents provide wellies for outside play. We also ask the parents to name property to limit items from going missing.

As part of our ethos at Glenfall Preschool children will have the opportunity to participate in child lead messy activities, we ask that parents choose their child’s clothing appropriately for play of this nature.

3.22 Intimate Care Policy

The team who work with young children or children/young people who have special needs will realise that the issue of intimate care is a difficult one and will require team members to be respectful of children's needs.

Intimate care can be defined as care tasks of an intimate nature, associated with bodily functions, body products and personal hygiene which demand direct or indirect contact with or exposure of the genitals. Examples include care associated with nappy changing as well as more ordinary tasks such as help with washing or changing clothes.

Children and young people's dignity will be preserved and a high level of privacy, choice and control will be provided to them. Team members who provide intimate care to children and young people have a high awareness of child protection issues. Team behaviour is open to scrutiny and team members at Glenfall Preschool work in partnership with parents/carers to provide continuity of care to children/young people wherever possible. The team at Glenfall Preschool deliver a full personal safety curriculum, as part of Personal, Social and Health Education, to all children and young people as appropriate to their developmental level and degree of understanding. This work is shared with parents who are encouraged to reinforce the personal safety messages within the home. Glenfall Preschool is committed to ensuring that all team members responsible for the intimate care of children and young people will undertake their duties in a professional manner at all times. Glenfall Preschool recognises that there is a need to treat all children and young people with respect when intimate care is given. No child should be attended to in a way that causes distress or pain.

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All children and young people who require intimate care are treated respectfully at all times; the child's welfare and dignity is of paramount importance.

Team members who provide intimate care are trained to do so (Child Protection) and are fully aware of best practice. Apparatus will be provided to assist with children and young people who need special arrangements following assessment from physiotherapist/ occupational therapist as required.

There is careful communication with each child who needs help with intimate care in line with their preferred means of communication (verbal, symbolic, etc.) to discuss the child’s needs and preferences. The child is aware of each procedure that is carried out and the reasons for it. As a basic principle children and young people will be supported to achieve the highest level of autonomy that is possible given their age and abilities. Team members will encourage each child to do as much for themselves as they can. This may mean for example, giving the child responsibility for washing or dressing themselves. Individual intimate care plans may be drawn up for particular children as appropriate to suit the circumstances of the child. These plans might include a full risk assessment to address issues such as moving and handling, personal safety of the child and the carer and their health. Each child's right to privacy will be respected. Careful consideration will be given to each child's situation to determine how many carers might need to be present when a child needs help with intimate care. Where possible one child will be cared for by one adult unless there is a sound reason for having two adults present. If this is the case, the reasons should be clearly documented. Parents/carers will be involved with their child's intimate care arrangements on a regular basis; a clear account of the care given and by whom will be recorded on the changing record available. The needs and wishes of children and parents will be carefully considered alongside any possible constraints; e.g. staffing and equal opportunities legislation. Please see hygiene policy 3.24 Each child and their parents will have a Key person to act as an advocate to whom they will be able to communicate any issues or concerns that they may have about the quality of care they receive. Where appropriate, all children and young people will be taught personal safety and hygiene skills carefully matched to their level of development and understanding. If a member of the team has any concerns about physical changes in a child's presentation, e.g. marks, bruises, soreness etc. they will immediately report concerns to the DSL. A clear record of the concern will be completed and when necessary, a child protection concern will be reported to the Children and Families helpline. Parents will be informed that a referral is necessary prior to it being made unless doing so is likely to place the child at greater risk of harm. If a child becomes distressed or unhappy about being cared for by a particular member of the team, the matter will be looked into and outcomes recorded. Parents/carers will be contacted at the earliest opportunity as part of this process in order to reach a resolution. Rotas will be altered until the issue(s) are resolved

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so that the child's needs remain paramount. Further advice will be taken from outside agencies if necessary. If a child makes an allegation against a member of staff, all necessary procedures will be followed, see Allegations Management Policy in Section 4.6 and also at www.gscb.org.uk/handbook .

3.23 Food and Drink Policy

At Glenfall Preschool we sit down to eat twice a day. Once in the morning for fruit snack and once in the afternoon for lunch. The Parents/Carers are asked to provide a piece of fruit each session that their child attends, either pre prepared or left whole if the child is able to eat it this way. We do ask that grapes are cut in half lengthways due to the risk of choking.

At Glenfall Preschool we pay particular attention to the children’s dietary requirements. All medical, cultural and dietary needs will be met. Fresh water is provided at all times and children bring their own cup which we encourage them to refill during the preschool day. For children attending the afternoon session, they are required to bring a packed lunch. We encourage parents and children in ‘healthy options’ and practitioners are always available to offer advice on healthy eating choices for Preschool lunchboxes.

We follow the guidance from the Statutory framework for the early years foundation stage (EYFS) April 2017 for this policy.

Before a child is admitted to the setting the provider must also obtain information about any special dietary requirements, preferences and food allergies that the child has, and any special health requirements. Fresh drinking water must be available and accessible at all times.

Providers must record and act on information from parents and carers about a child's dietary needs. EYFS 3.45

3.24 Smoking and Alcohol Policy

The setting has a strict no smoking policy on site in compliance with Gloucestershire County Council Regulation – all parents/carers are asked to comply with this. The consumption of alcohol is also prohibited.

3.25 Hygiene Policy

Children will be encouraged to wipe their own noses, and they will be asked to put the dirty tissue into the bin to prevent the spread of germs. Children are also encouraged to wipe their hands and faces after snack or lunch. The children in nappies will be monitored closely to ensure they are clean at all times. All team members are required to wear protective aprons where appropriate and gloves whilst changing the child and will dispose of all nappies in nappy sacks provided. The changing mat will be wiped after each use. A changing sheet will be filled in for each nappy change and in cases or wet and soiled clothing during toilet training. Changing of a child is carried out in the

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best place for the child’s personal care and privacy. This reinforces the NSPCC pants rule which is proactively used throughout Glenfall Preschool. Personal hygiene is a top priority at Glenfall Preschool. We encourage children to wash their hands before snack time, before cooking activities, after going to the toilet and after messy activities e.g. painting. We use water and anti-bacterial soap to wash the children’s hands.

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4 Suitable People

4.1 Safer Recruitment

Glenfall Preschool believes in a well-trained, motivated team that works together for the good of the Preschool is the most effective way to ensure high quality provision. Glenfall Preschool strive to keep practitioner turnover low to ensure continuity for children and their families. On the occasion that new team members are recruited, a comprehensive recruitment procedure is followed:

Positions are advertised widely. Safeguarding statements and checks are incorporated into all stages of

the process. References are obtained as part of the short-listing process and where

possible, before interview stage. The interview panel is made up of 2 members of the senior management

team and a committee member. Strong candidates at interview are invited to attend a trial session where

other members of the staff team are encouraged to provide feedback on the candidate’s performance.

The position is offered to the candidate most suitable for the position based on a combination of their strengths at application, in reference, at interview and in practice.

All posts are offered on a conditional basis: pending a successful induction, a 3 month probationary review and DBS clearance.

All team members receive regular training opportunities, annual appraisals and the encouragement to bring their skills, talents and interests into the setting.

4.2 Supervision Policy

The revised EYFS Statutory guidelines 2017 states “Providers must put appropriate arrangements in place for supervision of staff who have contact with children’s and families. Effective supervision provides support, coaching and training for the practitioner and promotes the interests of children. Supervision should foster a culture of mutual support, teamwork and continuous improvements which encourages the confidential discussion of sensitive issues” (EYFS;2012 3.19-3.20) Team meetings will continue to provide the opportunity for team discussion and reflection, including sharing ideas, expertise and strategies in order to support individual children and their families. Periodically team members may require an opportunity to reflect on their own individual strengths and needs in order to fulfil their role to the very best of their ability. In order to achieve this we shall introduce termly supervision meetings, in addition to annual appraisals. These can be requested by either team members or the Early Years Lead. At Glenfall Preschool’s supervision sessions we will provide the opportunity for team members to;

Discuss any issues- particularly concerning children’s development Identify solutions to address issues as they arise Receive coaching to improve their personal effectiveness Talk openly about their role and any challenges they have had

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Consider possible next steps and agree actions to be taken ( for example attending training to support need or consider other developmental activities)

Supervision will be carried out in a number of ways; Formal supervision meeting once a term (3 times per year) Informal discussions at staff meetings Annual staff appraisals

Who will be responsible for supervision? The supervisor of the practitioners and students will be carried out by the

Early Years Lead or the Deputy Early Years Lead. The Early Years Lead is responsible for the supervision of the Deputy Early Years Lead.

The Early Years Lead supervision will be carried out by the chairperson of the committee or an equivalent lead professional

Formal supervision sessions will; Be organised in advance /date set to suit both parties Meetings will be well structured with opportunity for contribution from

both parties Cover areas set out in supervision policy Meeting notes will be recorded verbatim style and then word processed

with a copy kept on a password protected laptop. Targets or actions set out at the meeting are expected to be actioned

promptly by both parties.

4.3 Volunteer and Parental Involvement

Glenfall Preschool realises that parents/carers generally have the greatest knowledge about their own child and should be kept fully informed about their child’s activities in the Preschool. Parents/carers can be actively involved in the Preschool through the Glenfall Preschool Committee. There are many ways parents/carers can get involved, for example, joining the preschool committee, fundraising and looking after equipment. For all volunteers who give their time to the committee or have continuing involvement with the children, the preschool will obtain a DBS check. Parents/carers and volunteers who do not have DBS clearance are not permitted to carry out any intimate care procedures or to be unattended with a child, other than their own. At Glenfall Preschool we believe that children benefit most from their Preschool experience when parents/carers, practitioners and volunteers work together in partnership.

We aim:

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To support parents/carers as their children's first and most important educators.

To involve parents/carers in the life of the Preschool and their children's education.

To support parents/carers in their own continuing education and personal development.

In order to fulfil these aims:

We are committed to ongoing dialogue with parents/carers to improve our knowledge of the needs of their children and to support their families.

Through access to written information and through regular informal communication, we inform all parents/carers about how the group is run and its policies.

We encourage and support parents/carers to play an active part in the Glenfall Preschool committee.

We inform all parents/carers on a regular basis about their children's progress.

We ensure parents/carers have access to their children's learning journeys and are encouraged to share and add to themselves.

We inform parents/carers about relevant conferences, workshops and training. We hold meetings in venues which are accessible and appropriate for all.

All committee meetings are communicated to parents by the committee chairperson or secretary.

We welcome the contributions of parents/carers, in whatever form they may take.

We inform all parents/carers of the systems for registering queries, complaints or suggestions and check to ensure these are understood. All parents/carers have access to our written complaints procedure.

We provide opportunities for parents/carers to learn about the early years.

The Preschool to Parent Partnership is the strong foundation of our community Preschool. In order to protect our ethos at Glenfall Preschool we ask for continuing support and understanding with the way we educate the children in our care.

4.4 Requirements of Early Years Practitioners and Committee Members

All practitioners and committee members will be subject to checks via the Disclosure and Barring Service.

New members of the team will be subject to interview, acceptable references and work for a probationary period. Team members are contractually obliged to notify the Early Years Lead/Deputy Early Years Lead of any criminal charges or convictions they receive whilst employed at Glenfall Preschool. They are also asked about charges and convictions as part of the Supervision and appraisal process. The Early Years Lead will record any such convictions or charges on practitioner records and will make the decision as to whether it affects the employment of that team member.

4.5 Childminding Services Policy

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At Glenfall Preschool we are aware that some parents/carers will ask the practitioners to look after their children outside of the Preschool hours.

As a setting we:

Will not responsible for any of the arrangements made between parents/carers and the practitioners regarding this.

Will not be held responsible for any health and safety or other issues that may arise from these private arrangements.

The practitioners will be unable to discuss anything relating to the setting including other children and other team members due to confidentiality. We expect our team to inform the Early Years Lead or the Deputy Early Years Lead of any arrangements made.

4.6 Allegations Management Procedure (whistle blowing)

The team and committee members are encouraged to be part of a safeguarding culture, keeping the welfare of the children paramount in all that they do. In the event of an allegation or concern regarding a member of the team, volunteer or the committee the following procedure will be necessary.

Concern about a practitioner or volunteer working with children If a professional receives an allegation or has a concern about the behaviour of a member of the team or volunteer working with children that concern could amount to:

a practitioner or volunteer has behaved in a way that has harmed a child, or may have harmed a child

Or possibly committed a criminal offence against or related to a child; or behaved towards a child or children in a way that indicates they are unsuitable to work with children.

The professional who received the allegation should:

Report the concern to the most senior person not implicated in the allegation.

Complete a written record of the nature and circumstances surrounding the concern including any previous concerns held. Include where the concern came from and brief details only.

Always contact the Local Authority Designated Officer on 01452 426994 for Allegations (LADO) for advice prior to investigating the allegation. This is because it might meet the criminal threshold and so your investigation could interfere with a police or Social Care investigation. The LADO will offer advice on any immediate action required and will assist with employment and safeguarding issues.

If after your Initial Discussion with the LADO, it’s agreed that the allegation meets the criteria, a multi-agency meeting will be convened and you will be invited. This might result in a criminal investigation, a Social Care investigation and/or an investigation to inform whether disciplinary action is required.

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If it’s agreed that the allegation does not meet the criteria, the LADO will record the Initial Discussion and send it to you for your records. Any further action will be taken within your setting if necessary.

Further meetings might be required and these will be convened by the LADO with your input at all times. Further information on the Allegations Management process can be found at Appendix 5 of the Government Document Working Together to Safeguard Children (2006). http://www.dcsf.gov.uk/everychildmatters/resources-and-practice/IG00060/

4.7 Disciplinary Grievance and Appeal Process (whistle blowing)Employees at Glenfall Preschool are expected to follow local, national and their own settings policies and procedures specific to working with children and families. As an Early Years setting the Preschool works within the Statutory Guidance for Early Years (Department of Education). Practitioners are expected to familiarise themselves with, and contribute when necessary to the current policies and procedures and to ensure that these policies and procedures are followed within every aspect of their role. Glenfall Preschool aims to have a harmonious working environment that is based on mutual trust and respect, encouraging team members to communicate their concerns, ideas and issues on a regular basis. This communication will happen on a daily basis when discussing, evaluating and reflecting upon each session, during team meetings, at termly supervision meetings and at annual appraisals. In addition, team members are able to raise any concerns or issues with the Early Years Lead/Deputy Early Years Lead or Committee Chairperson. By embracing a communicative ethos to our working environment it is hoped that any issues or concerns can be dealt with and rectified in an informal manner. In the event that a team member feels that their concern is unresolved or in the event that an employee does not follow procedures or policies correctly then further action may be necessary. This procedure details some examples of the situations that may deem this necessary as well as the process that will be followed by Glenfall Preschool as the employer.

Glenfall Preschool’s team are expected to have a high level of conduct with regard to carrying out their roles as detailed within their job description and as discussed with them at regular team meetings and supervision/appraisal opportunities. This level of conduct relates to the employees ability to meet Glenfall Preschool’s professional standards in the following aspects:

Absence Timekeeping Performance Health and safety Personal appearance Discrimination, bullying and harassment Smoking and alcohol and drugs consumption Behaviour outside work including use of email, mobile phone text

messaging and social networking sites e.g. Facebook, twitter etc. Conduct/behaviour with children of the setting.

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If an employee fails to meet the minimum standards of conduct, and informal discussion does not rectify the situation then Glenfall Preschool as an employer may begin disciplinary action against them. No employee will be dismissed for a first breach of discipline except in the case of gross misconduct, when the penalty will be dismissal without notice or payment in lieu.

Gross Misconduct. There are some types of behaviour that Glenfall Preschool as an employer will treat as gross misconduct. This is an action that is so serious that is likely to lead to dismissal without notice. Examples of these behaviours may include, though are not limited to:

Bullying and harassment Drunkenness/drug abuse Fighting at work Fraud Gross negligence/insubordination Serious breaches of health and safety Theft Wilful damage to property Use of the internet or email to access pornographic, obscene or offensive

material Bringing the organisation into disrepute Malicious damage Being unfit through use of drugs or alcohol Serious breach of Safeguarding Children. e.g. ill- treatment of children,

assault Serious failure to comply with policies, procedures and legal requirements

that safeguard children. Serious breach of the early years statutory policy and procedures

Regular discussion and review of the settings policies and practice at Glenfall Preschool aims to involve all employees and committee members. In devising and adapting general Glenfall Preschool ensures that we continually stay abreast of local and national statutory requirements. Glenfall Preschool believes that regular discussion and team involvement contributes to good employment relations and team members are actively encouraged to voice their ideas and opinions ensuring that rules and guidelines are sensible and understood by all. This can prevent many discipline and grievance problems arising. By involving team members to develop rules they are more likely to be effective if accepted as reasonable. The rules, policies and procedures at Glenfall Preschool apply to all employees, students and volunteers at all levels within the childcare setting. These guidelines do not discriminate on the grounds of sex, transgender, marital or civil partnership status, racial group, sexual orientation, religion or belief, disability or age. These guidelines are:-

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Clearly written down in our policies and procedures and made clear to employees on the onset of their employment

Shared with committee members on the onset of their term of office. The disciplinary and grievance section is provided to each employee. Understood by all employees and volunteers including students and

employees whose English or reading ability is limited or who have a disability such as a visual impairment.

Reviewed on a regular basis, ensuring the procedure reflects current practice and relevant employment guidelines.

Handling Discipline at Glenfall Preschool: Informal resolution The issue may be resolved satisfactorily in an informal manner. In these circumstances, the Early Years Lead or in her absence the Deputy Early Years Lead will quickly and confidentially raise the issue with the employee. By identifying the issue, letting them know you have noticed and are concerned may be all that is required to get them back on track. You should encourage a two way discussion and reach agreements in how conduct or performance may be improved. Team meetings, termly supervision (see also Supervision Policy 4.2) and annual appraisals also serve to resolve issues and performance on an informal basis. If however, the employee has failed to improve on their performance and or conduct as a result of the advice given then the Formal Disciplinary Procedure will be applied. Before instigating the disciplinary procedure it will be necessary for Glenfall Preschool to begin an investigation to take place establishing the facts of the case.

The Early Years Lead and/or the Committee Chairperson should carry out any necessary investigations, to establish the facts of the case. In some cases this will require the holding of an investigatory meeting with the employee before proceeding to any disciplinary hearing. In others, the investigatory stage will be the collation of evidence by the employers for use at the disciplinary hearing.

Where a witness provides a statement during an investigation, they should be made aware that their statement may be used in a disciplinary hearing and they might therefore be required to attend the hearing in support of their evidence.

Prior to the disciplinary meeting the Early Years Lead will send the employee an outline of the unsatisfactory performance issues or concerns and details of any alleged conduct or characteristics which have led to the disciplinary procedure. This correspondence will also state the possible consequences. The following may happen whilst the disciplinary procedure is being followed, depending on the nature of the issues or concerns:

An employee may be suspended from work on full pay while a disciplinary offence is investigated.

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The period of suspension will be kept as brief as possible, normally for no more than 5 working days.

Whilst on suspension the employee’s contract of employment will be deemed to continue.

The employee will not be entitled to access the setting’s premises or any ICT systems or paperwork without the prior consent of the Early Years Lead.

Formal Disciplinary Procedure – The Three Stage Process Stage 1 - Formal Verbal Warning If despite informal discussions, the employee’s conduct or performance does not meet acceptable standards, the Early Years Lead or Committee Chairperson will give the employee a formal verbal warning. The employee will be told:-

The reason for the warning That this warning is the first stage of the disciplinary procedure That there is a right of appeal.

A brief written record of the warning is kept with the employee’s personnel file, but this should lapse after 6 months providing the employee’s conduct and performance has been satisfactory. Stage 2 - Written Warning If there is no improvement in standards, or if a further offence occurs, a written warning will be given. This will state the reason for the warning and a note that, if there is no improvement after 3 months a final written warning will be given. A copy of this first written warning will be kept on file but the warning will lapse after 6 months subject to satisfactory conduct and/or performance. Stage 3 - Final Written Warning If conduct or performance remains unsatisfactory, or if the misconduct is sufficiently serious to warrant only one written warning, then a final written warning will be given making it clear that any recurrence of the offence or other serious misconduct within a period of 6 months will result in dismissal. A copy of the warning will be kept on file but the warning will normally lapse after 6 months subject to satisfactory conduct and/or performance. Dismissal If there is still a failure to improve, or where the conduct or performance is sufficiently serious, the final step in the procedure may be dismissal or some other action short of dismissal such as demotion or disciplinary suspension. The employee will be provided, as soon as reasonably practicable, with written reasons for dismissal, the date on which the employment will terminate, as well of their right of appeal. The decision to dismiss will be confirmed in writing. In cases of gross misconduct, the employee will normally be dismissed without notice or pay in lieu of notice. In exceptional circumstances, or if there are any genuine mitigating circumstances, alternative disciplinary action may be taken.

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Appeals Once the disciplinary procedure has been initiated the employee has the right, at any stage, within the organisations agreed timescale, to appeal against it. Appeals must be made in writing and clearly state the reasons for the appeal. A meeting should be convened between the employer and the employee. The employee may be accompanied to the appeal meeting e.g. by a committee representative or a work colleague agreed in advance with the setting. After the appeal meeting, the employer must inform the employee in writing of the appeal decision. The employer’s decision following an appeal meeting is final and the employee has no further rights to an internal appeal.

On the occasion that an employee’s grievance cannot be dealt with in this matter then the following Standard Grievance Procedure will apply: The employee must send a written explanation of their grievance to the

Committee Chairperson or the Early Years Lead/Deputy Early Years Lead stating the basis for their complaint.

The Early Years Lead or Committee Chairperson will invite the employee to a meeting to discuss the issue (the employee should take all reasonable steps to attend). After the meeting, the Early Years Lead must inform the employee of their decision and offer the employee the right to appeal. The employee will be notified of their right to be accompanied to this meeting.

If the employee wishes to appeal he/she must inform the Early Years Lead or committee chairperson, who must then arrange a second meeting to hear the appeal. The Early Years Lead or committee chairperson must inform the employee of the outcome of the appeal, in writing after the meeting. It must be made clear to the employee that this decision is final.

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5. Suitable Premises, Environment and Equipment

5.1 Responsibility for Health and SafetyOverall responsibility for all Health and Safety matters lies with the Early Years Lead Becky Poulter Jewson and the Glenfall Preschool Committee. Day to day health and safety checks, issues and risk assessments are carried out by Vicki Willis. Any issues can be discussed with the either of the above or raised at a committee meeting. As an employer, Glenfall Preschool will ensure, to the best of its ability, the health and safety of all employees working at the Glenfall Preschool. This commitment extends to all team members, children, committee members, students and volunteer helpers.

Role of the Glenfall Pre School Committee as "The Employer"

The nominated employee will: Undertake a Risk Assessment each term to identify hazards, and take

satisfactory precautions so that the risk to individuals is small. The Risk assessment process will:

Advise on fire precautions, fire drills and evacuation procedures in place Advise procedures for reporting and recording of faults and possible

hazards Decide who might be harmed and how Evaluate the risks and decide whether the existing precautions are

adequate or whether more should be done Record the findings in the Risk Assessment file. Review the assessment and revise it if necessary.

A full review of the Risk Assessment document will be undertaken termly the Health and Safety Officer. Glenfall Preschool will also:

Display the leaflet "Health and Safety Law – What you should know" (produced by the Health and Safety Executive).

Communicate emergency and evacuation procedures to employees and others

Consult with employees before making decisions that affect their health and safety.

Keep records of injuries at work and first aid treatment given. These are to be recorded in the Preschool Accident and Incident Book.

Ensure Staff are briefed on relevant aspects of the Manual Handling Regulations 2002 and are given a handout as part of their induction process as well as training when necessary.

Employees have an important role to play in this process and their co-operation is vital to the success of the Glenfall Preschool Health and Safety Policy. All employees will be issued a copy of this policy statement and:

Consulted on the purpose on the document, and how they are to be involved in health and safety matters.

Advised on fire precautions, fire drills and evacuation procedures in place.

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Advised on procedure for reporting and recording of faults and possible hazards.

Will have the opportunity to attend/keep up to date First Aid Training.

An employee also has a legal duty to:

Take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by what they do and do not do.

Co-operate with their employer on health and safety, following procedures and advice in all aspects of their role.

Correctly use work items provided by their employer, including any personal protective equipment, in accordance with training or instructions

Not interfere with, or misuse, anything provided for your health, safety or welfare.

5.2 Lone Worker Statement

It is also acknowledged that all employees have a responsibility for ensuring the safety and well-being of their fellow work colleagues, children, parents and visitors. This policy takes into consideration the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. All employees will be provided with the Health and Safety Executive HSE publication Working Alone in Safety: Controlling the Risks of Solitary Work if lone working is applicable. The Preschool recognizes such circumstances where it is unavoidable that a member of the team should be required to work alone or in an isolated working environment. It also recognizes that as an employer, it has a duty of care towards its employees and that reasonable steps should be taken to ensure their Health, Well Being and Personal Safety at all times.

Procedures for Communication All Lone Workers must be in possession of a mobile phone while on the premises for use in an emergency. When a team member must work alone, they must notify the Preschool Early Years Lead or the Deputy Early Years Lead of when they will be on the premises and when they will be departing. The Lone Worker must contact the Preschool Lead when they are departing the premises. If the Lone Worker fails to contact the Preschool Lead within 30 minutes after that time, the Preschool Lead will attempt to contact the Lone Worker. Should the Lone Worker not be able to be contacted, the Preschool Lead or the Deputy Early Years Lead will go to the premises to ensure that the Lone Worker has not been injured. In the instance of a lone worker attending home visits, an agreed communication will ensure that another member of team has details of times and places and that a phone call will take place immediately after the visit to ensure staff safety at all times.

5.3 Accident Procedure

At Glenfall Preschool we support children to actively make sense of the world around them. Young children should be allowed to take controlled risk, little

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accidents are often the best way to prevent children then having big accidents. Most upsets and incidents can be dealt with quickly and simply, a quick hug, some sympathy and a brush down before the child runs off to play again. Accidents that have resulted in a mark or bruise, that require a plaster or a cold compress occurring whilst the child is in the care of the setting are recorded. The following details are written in the Accident/Incident Book:

Description of accident/event: Where, when and how the accident occurred

The name of child involved Who witnessed the accident Description of the injury sustained and action taken Signature of the team member who dealt with the injury, signature of the

Early Years Lead/ Deputy Early Years Lead and Signature of the parent/carer on collection of the child concerned.

The risk assessment records will be reviewed following any serious incident/accident or near-miss as part of the safeguarding/grey areas agenda item in team and committee meetings. For very serious accidents to a child, the Parents/carers are contacted as soon as possible and the incident is reported to Ofsted. All team members have the necessary first-aid training. The First Aid box is located in the Preschool Office on the shelves to the right of the cupboard and is checked monthly and replenished when necessary by a designated member of the team. Records of these checks are kept in the group file.

5.4Risk Assessments

Team members carry out risk assessments before each session, checks include both the indoor and outdoor areas as well as detailed risk assessments for trip and any activity outside the Preschool provision. All equipment is checked each time it is put out, all risks or hazards identified will be recorded in the group file and shared with all employees and committee members. During the session employees continuously monitor and do risk assessments on the children's play. Risk taking is an essential feature of play provision. The provision aims to offer the children the chance to encounter acceptable risks as part of a stimulating challenging and controlled learning environment. The children are supported and encouraged to carry out simple tick list risk assessments for outdoor play. Care is taken to ensure that all furniture, toys, materials and equipment are safe, sturdy, well maintained and clean and conform to all relevant safety standards. Faulty toys or equipment are removed immediately.

5.5Fire safety Policy

Fire exits are identified to new members of the team and volunteers on placement during induction. Fire drills take place every 6-8 weeks over a number of days to include all children attending the setting. Details and reviews of fire drills are kept in the group record file. In line with Safety advice doors and gates are locked for security reasons.

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Fire drill notices are displayed on the Glenfall Preschool cupboard. The Preschool lead and all staff have responsibilities during the fire drill. The following drill is put in effect in the case of fire:

On discovering fire, ring the fire bell situated in the room, this will be done

by any employee if smoke alarm is not already sounding. The designated fire officer will also report the fire incident to the Fire

Brigade, keeping the phone with her at all times. The Early Years Lead/Deputy Early Years Lead will collect the register.

They will then signal to the children to quickly and quietly move towards the appropriate fire exit and form a line.

The other Practitioners will assist all the children in doing this. The most senior member of the team will lead the children through the fire

exit door into the infant playground. Practitioners will check all areas to ensure complete evacuation, closing all

doors. The children will be instructed to line up at the fire assembly point. The fire safety officer takes the register, ensuring all children and adults

are safely evacuated. The most senior member of the team will quietly count all children and

adults and check this amount with the sign in sheet to identify a missing person at the earliest opportunity.

Wait for the Fire Brigade to arrive or the case of a drill return to the Preschool

5.6Evacuation Policy

In light of the recent terrorist attacks, we now feel that it is necessary to have a procedure in place on what to do in the event of a terrorist attack or national disaster. The care and security we provide to your child is paramount. As an Ofsted registered Preschool, we will do everything within our powers to protect, comfort and support your child in the event of a major incident, national emergency or terrorist attack.If we are involved in the incident we will comply fully with the instructions from the emergency services and follow the instructions outlined in this policy.If parents/carers are caught up in an incident we will continue to care for your child until you are able to return or until an emergency contact is able to collect them. We will endeavour to keep in touch via landline, mobile or email. In extreme circumstances this may include overnight care but this will be discussed with you and social services will also be kept informed.

We understand that during major incidents the mobile phone networks are not available and even landlines can be cancelled to free up communication systems for the emergency services. We will however attempt to contact parents/carers on a regular basis and Glenfall Preschool asks that parents/carers do the same. Glenfall Preschool will keep up to date with the situation using media sources available to us. For example radio, television and the internet. Glenfall Preschool will endeavour to protect your child from information or images that may harm or distress them.

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In the event of an emergency the Early Years Lead/Deputy Early Years Lead will lead the children and team members to a safe area of the preschool dependant on the location of the situation.

5.7 Preventing Terrorism and Radicalisation Policy

Glenfall Preschool will safeguard against radicalisation through completing Prevent Training. All team members at Glenfall Preschool will complete online prevent training. Wherever available team members will attend prevent training as part of their continued professional development.

In incidences of making a referral to the Police Prevent Team please:

Speak to the designated safeguarding lead in the first instance The safeguarding lead will contact the Police Prevent team.

Anti-Terrorist Hotline: 0800 789 321Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

Or online onwww.gov.uk/report-terrorism

Glenfall Preschool will display the contact numbers for the anti-terrorist hotline and the Crimestoppers number in the setting.

5.8 Safe Use of Information Communication Technology

At Glenfall Preschool we understand that we live in a rapidly changing technological world where technologies are constantly extending and expanding. The Early Years Foundation Stage Framework requires the use of technology in the curriculum. We aim to promote the use of ICT to enable all children to:

Build on their experiences from home Develop practical skills needed to access ICT Enjoy ICT and use it with confidence Understand that equipment needs to be handled with care and respect

How will Internet use provide effective learning?

Practitioners, parents and children need to develop good practice in using the Internet as a tool for teaching and learning

Children will be monitored and supervised appropriately at all times whilst accessing the Internet

Internet access will be planned to enrich and extend learning activities.

Virus protection will be installed and updated regularly

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We are aware that there are various health and safety issues when using computers with young children and we will adhere to the following:

Computers need to be set at the right height so that the child can sit comfortably without putting strain on their back, neck or arms

Chairs need to be adjusted to the right height so that the child looks at the monitor straight in front of them

Backs should be straight and supported and feet flat on the floor Children will spend no longer than 10 minutes on the computer at any one

time: Allowing only one child to hold the mouse at one time

5.9 Acceptable Use of Social Networking Sites

Glenfall Preschool recognises that parents and employees have a right to post photographs or information about themselves or their families on Social Networking Sites. Glenfall Preschool reminds parents at events such as a nativity or sports day that photographs they take will also contain images of other children and team members and that photographs or videos they take are for their own personal use and not to be posted on any social networking or file sharing sites, thereby protecting the privacy of all involved. Glenfall Preschool operates a Facebook page. This is primarily used as a marketing and communication tool and pictures of children are never used without prior permission. Glenfall preschool does not post of photographs or videos of the children faces on any social media page. It is at practitioner’s discretion as to who they make friendships with on social media sites. However if a person or family are known involved in a known safeguarding procedure , then it is not practically ethical to remain on social media with that person or family.

5.10 Manual Handling

The Manual Handling Regulations are part of a wider campaign to reduce back injuries. Glenfall Preschool has a duty to ensure employees are aware of how to reduce the risks of manual handling that you may need to undertake in line with your role as an employee or parent volunteer. Employers are required to:

Picking up chairs: Do not carry more than 4 chairs at a time. All other furniture should be rolled on wheeled into position. Heavy furniture should only be moved when children are safely on the carpet or out of the room.

Staff should assess any risk in relation to manual handling/ safety issues and should not undertake any actions that pose a risk and are avoidable.

Children should be encouraged to do as much as possible for themselves and carrying children for any length of time should be discouraged. Children should always however, be comforted when upset or picked up in instances when their safety is at risk.

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Any member of the team should highlight any concerns or issues as part of their day to day reflection and risk assessment. Any issues will be rectified as necessary and maybe raised as a safety grey area during staff or committee meetings.

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6. Organisation6.1 Payment Policy

Glenfall Preschool is open from 8.50am until 2.50pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, and 8.50am until 11.50pm Thursday, during term time. Glenfall Preschool is closed on Bank Holidays. Fees of £4.50 per hour are payable monthly within 14 days of receiving the invoice. Childcare vouchers can be used. Children who are eligible for Nursery Funding from the term after their second birthday in case of AY2O or third birthday for local authority funding will need to complete the appropriate forms each term. Please note: Full fees are still payable if a child is absent from Glenfall Preschool. In instances that fees are not paid on time, and no communication has been received we will put our Debt Recovery Policy into place.

6.2 Debt Recovery PolicyTo enable the setting to remain sustainable we have a business requirement to recover all sums due to Glenfall Preschool efficiently and effectively. Our collection and debt recovery policy ensures that collection methods are fair to everyone, taking into consideration those on low incomes. It is recognised that people do not pay their debts for a variety of reasons. Some people, because of living in or on the margins of poverty, will have difficulty in paying. Glenfall Preschool will endeavour to help such people and minimise the impact of debt on them.

Some people may be able to pay but do not pay because of an oversight or personal difficulties and not because of a deliberate decision to avoid or delay payment. Glenfall Preschool will seek to help such people by developing a culture of payment by encouraging them to get in contact and discuss any difficulties. The need to get in touch is central to the Policy. Where a person makes contact their circumstances will be considered with a view to agreeing a reasonable payment arrangement, minimising recovery action and helping to alleviate hardship. Where people fail to make contact or maintain arrangements, recovery action will continue. This Policy covers the collection of Glenfall Preschool childcare payments. It consists of a statement of principles and a code of practice. The aims of the Policy are to:-

Take positive action to prevent arrears occurring, for example by providing different payment methods according to need.

Encourage parents/carers to make early contact to avoid accruing increased debt. Ensure prompt billing and to remind people quickly if they do not pay

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Help to identify deliberate non-payers or people who delay payment Make sure that when we take enforcement action it is appropriate and

likely to be effective Take enforcement action against deliberate non-payers or those who delay

payment Be approachable so that parents/carers will be more willing to make

contact when they first face difficulties Where customers have fallen or are likely to fall into arrears, Glenfall Preschool will work with them to set reasonable payment levels that they can maintain.

Fees are charged on a monthly basis. Fees are paid for in advance. Full fees are payable unless parents have access to the A2YO funding, 15

hours free for 3 & 4 funding or 30 hours free funding. See Becky Poulter Jewson for details

Four weeks notice required for any cancellation or alteration of your booking.

Payments are required by bank transfer with the child’s name as reference.

If the account is not paid when due, and no contact has been made with your child will be suspended from Glenfall Preschool until the account is settled in full.

Children in receipt of A2YO funding, 15 Hours 3 & 4 year old funding will still be permitted to attend the setting for the funded hours until the invoice is settled.

Invoices are issued monthly and are payable within 14 days of date of issue.

Reductions or remissions are not available for non-attendance including holiday or sickness.

Further instances of late collection will result in the Gloucestershire Any parent experiencing difficulties with payments should contact Rachel

Russell Glenfall Preschool administrator as soon as possible. As a final measure the small claims court procedure will be initiated. All

expenses incurred by such a route will also be payable.

6.3 Complaints PolicyIf as a parent or carer you have a complaint regarding Glenfall Preschool you will be able to address this complaint with a member of the preschool team. If you feel that your complaint has not been resolved then please address the issue in writing to the Early Years Lead. The Early Years lead will respond within 5 working days.If agreement cannot be reached through the informal process or contact with the early years lead the next stage is to contact the Glenfall Preschool Committee Chairperson.

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Should the matter need to be taken further additional information about Ofsted complaints policy is available for the Ofsted website or from the Ofsted helpline 03001231231

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7. Documentation7.1 Record Keeping

Glenfall Preschool maintains policies, procedures and records required for the safe and efficient management of the setting to meet the needs of the children. We ensure that individual summative assessment records are regularly maintained and updated in order that every child receives an enjoyable and challenging learning and development experience, tailored to meet their individual needs. These records will be shared regularly with parents. Records which must be easily accessible and available for inspection by Ofsted include:

Child’s personal records Registers of attendance Complaints and concerns Accident/Incident Books Child progress: Summative Assessments, Learning Journey files and My

Plans Behaviour Management Procedure Evacuation procedures and drills Staff records First aid and medicine records Policies and Procedures

These and other appropriate records will be kept in the manner required by Ofsted. The Preschool will ensure that all appropriate records are regularly reviewed, actively monitored for trends and acted upon as necessary. We operate a Key Person System through our learning journey folders which hold a continuous assessment of each child’s interests, achievements and learning, cross referencing the seven areas of learning with observations within the learning Journey folder. These tasks are carried out within the setting as are all printing and storage of photographs etc. Throughout administrative duties, team members, volunteers and students ensure vigilance, confidentiality and safeguarding whilst completing documentation. All computers are password protected and documents that include children’s details are shredded when no longer needed. Registration, accident/incident Books and Attendance Records (daily sign in sheets) need, by law to be kept for longer periods and are archived for the appropriate timeframe. Developmental records are passed on to new settings with parental permission or returned to parents.

7.2 Confidentiality and Data Protection PolicyWe aim to ensure that all parents and carers can share their information in the confidence that it will only be used it to enhance the welfare of their child. At Glenfall Preschool we have record keeping systems in place that meet the legal requirements set out the Data Protection Act and the Human Rights Act.

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Most information shared within the setting will be kept confidential. In some circumstances this information may need to be shared with other professionals. We will seek your permission to share information about your child. In child protection circumstances there may be a need to share information without parental permission. Please see Safeguarding policy 3.2

Some parents may share information with other parents whose children attend the setting. It is not the responsibility of Glenfall Preschool to ensure that this information is kept confidential.

Glenfall Preschool will inform parents when we need to record confidential information beyond the general information that we keep. This confidential information includes information on injury or changes in relationships to the child or family.

Any shared information from outside agencies such as occupational therapy or speech and language therapy will be kept confidential.

We keep all records security either in a locked cupboard or a password protected laptop. Learning journeys are accessible to parents during the preschool session but are kept securely overnight.

At Glenfall Preschool we will discuss confidential information at team meetings. All team members are aware of the need for professionalism and confidentiality.

Our discussions with other professionals take place within a professional framework and not on an informal or ad-hoc basis.

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