Junior Adventures Group @ Willow Grove MK45

Inclusion: Strong standard

This is a highly inclusive club, where children who may face barriers to learning thrive. Younger children play happily with older children, and all children are included.

Parents are valued as partners and contribute meaningfully to their child's support plan. Staff then use these plans when planning activities or considering routines, sharing expertise with parents to improve outcomes. Leaders consider any other resources the child may need, such as sensory toys. This may include an additional adult to be their buddy if a child needs higher levels of support. Leaders ensure staff know how to effectively support every child and provide high-quality training, such as support for children who are demand-avoidant. Leaders work closely with the host school and other professionals, such as speech and language therapists. This collaborative approach helps children to feel valued and included at the club. Leaders know how to apply for more funding to support any children that may need it.

Leaders are very knowledgeable about how to support children with special educational needs and or/disabilities and share this knowledge with staff. For example, by writing guides about sensory play or how to use visual aids. These guides enhance staff's knowledge and support their day-to-day planning and practice.

Behaviour, attitudes and establishing routines: Expected standard

Children generally enter the setting calmly after putting their belongings away. They come together as a group on arrival before quickly settling into activities of their choice. Children know the routines and automatically wash their hands before snack. When children go outside, they put on a high-visibility jacket and listen to a reminder about the rules. They understand that they wear a jacket so they can be seen. Children listen carefully as the adult tells them not to use the large climbing equipment as it will be too hot. This helps them understand how to keep themselves safe when playing outside. Leaders and staff have consistent expectations for all children's positive behaviour. Routines at the setting support children's sense of security and wellbeing and contribute positively to children's independence and engagement. Children show consideration and respect for others, resources and the environment.

Staff build warm and trusting relationships with each child. They talk to the children as they play, talking about their day at school and their interests. Children typically concentrate as they play, showing focus and attention to the activity. Children of all ages play harmoniously together, making LEGO or working on craft projects. Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those who may experience barriers to learning receive support to access all aspects of the club alongside their peers.

Leaders monitor attendance carefully and work closely with the host school.

Children's welfare and wellbeing: Expected standard

Leaders and staff have created a warm and welcoming atmosphere in this club. Key workers know the children well and plan activities they know the children will enjoy. Children request activities they would like, such as particular pictures to colour in or sensory toys. Staff are responsive to the children's needs. They recognise when children need physical play, and decide to open the playground space and take the children outside. In the large playground, all children are physically active, throwing balls, rolling hoops or making up games with the equipment. Staff help them play together, encouraging children to play a game of tennis. This helps to develop their physical and social skills.

Children are offered 2 healthy snacks during the session. They independently wash their hands before sitting together at the table, where they chat with staff and their peers about their day and the food on offer. Children enjoy nutritious snacks, such as pitta bread, hummus and fresh vegetables. Staff use these opportunities to promote healthy lifestyles by engaging children in conversations about the nutritional value of food. For instance, they explain that hummus contains protein, which helps their bodies grow and stay healthy. However, staff do not consistently maximise opportunities to promote children's independence during snack time. For example, children are not routinely encouraged to prepare their own snacks by using age-appropriate skills. Allergies are known by staff and effectively managed. Staff encourage children to keep themselves safe in the sun by making sure they stay in the shade and drink plenty of water.

Parents speak highly of the staff team, describing how well the staff know each child, and how much their child enjoys attending the club.

Leadership and governance: Expected standard

Leaders have established a welcoming club that children enjoy attending. Children of all ages play happily together. They spend time talking to the adults, who know them well. Leaders think carefully about the activities they offer and have recently introduced a wider range of experiences. This has improved the children's engagement and enjoyment of the club. Parents are informed of the activities that their children participate in and report that their children love going there. They say that the children often do not want to leave the club as they are having so much fun. Parents value the flexibility of the sessions, which helps to meet the varying needs of their families.

Leaders ensure the club is safe. They check that all staff are suitable to work with children, and that staff know how to report concerns. Staff feel well supported and receive comprehensive training when they start. Leaders provide opportunities for professional development that support improvements in practice. The training is linked to identified priorities and children's needs. Regional managers support the club well, working closely with the new acting manager to bring about further improvements. Ongoing training for managers will support future development. Leaders meet with staff regularly to discuss the club and to plan any changes and improvements going forward. Leaders give careful consideration to staff wellbeing and work load.