AN inspector has praised an out of school club’s staff team and variety of activities for children, including pupils from schools in Downend and Staple Hill.
Oldbury Court Out of School Clubs, based in Delabere Avenue, was visited by Ofsted in June, for the first time in nearly six years.
The club, which looks after more than 100 children from five primary schools, was found to meet the education regulator’s requirements.
Pupils from Staple Hill Primary School and Christ Church Junior School in Downend are among those who attend a combination of breakfast clubs and after-school clubs in term time, and an all-day out of term holiday club.
Children from Frome Vale Academy, Fishponds Academy and St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School also attend.
Inspector Amy Fedrick said: “Staff are welcoming and friendly and talk to children about their day. Staff prioritise children’s well-being and encourage them to talk about their feelings and emotions. Children are very happy and clearly feel safe and secure.”
The inspector said club’s indoor and outdoor areas are “very well planned” to cater for children of different ages.
She said: “Children’s views are valued and staff plan a variety of activities linked to children’s interests.
“Staff promote healthy eating and exercise, and children have plenty of opportunities for physical activity in the large outdoor area.”
The inspector said the 19 members of staff “work well as a team” and ensure there is adequate supervision of all areas.
Feedback from parents is “positive”, highlighting the extra workshops and trips offered during the holidays, which their children enjoy.
The inspector said: “Parents of children with special educational needs or disabilities state that staff are fully inclusive, and go above and beyond to meet their child’s individual needs to ensure that they can access the club.”
Manager Amy Brewer said: “We are privileged to have a well-established staff team, dedicated to providing quality play opportunities. They go above and beyond to organise extra activities and fundraising events, which is vital to our running as we receive no other funding, and with rising costs means we can remain affordable to our local community, which is fundamental to our values.
“Our staff team genuinely care about all the children who attend and we were glad this was picked up by the inspector.
“Educating the children to make healthy choices and providing varied and fun exercise opportunities has been a key aim this year, so we were also really pleased this was evident during the inspection.”