Policies and procedures

Safeguarding Policy

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, for the sake of this policy is defined as:

• Protecting children from maltreatment
• Preventing the impairment of children’s health or development
• Ensuring that children are growing up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care
• Taking action to enable all children to have the best outcomes.

(Definition taken from the HM Government document ‘Working together to safeguard children 2013’).

We support the children within our care, protect them from maltreatment and have robust procedures in place to prevent the impairment of children’s health and development. Safeguarding is a much wider subject than the elements covered within this single child protection policy, therefore this document should be used in conjunction with the other nursery policies and procedures.

At Eilmar Montessori School and Day Nursery we will work with children, parents, external agencies and the community to ensure the welfare and safety of children and to give them the very best start in life. Children have the right to be treated with respect and to be safe from any abuse in whatever form.

To this end we will:

• Create an environment to encourage children to develop a positive self-image
• Encourage children to develop a sense of independence and autonomy in a way that is appropriate to their age and stage of development
• Provide a safe and secure environment for all children
• Always listen to children.

Our nursery has a clear commitment to protecting children and promoting welfare. Should anyone believe that this policy is not being upheld, it is their duty to report the matter to the attention of the Nursery manager & DSO (Designated Safeguarding Officer)

Equal Opportunities Policy

Swans aims to provide equal opportunities in real positive way to ensure that all staff respect and value the different racial origins, religions, cultures and languages. Each child is cherished as an individual and without racial, religios and cultural or gender steriotyping and is encouraged to develop positive attitudes and awareness. The same applies to children with disabilities or special educational needs. Our nursery have no religious commitments and do not have prayers or religious teachings. We do encourage the celebration and understanding of all main festivals to reflect the cultures of the children who attend. Any discriminatory remarks or behaviour by anyone within the nursery is unacceptable and will be challenged.

Procedure for Transition to Local Primary School from Eilmar Montessori School & Day Nursery.

For Children leaving to go to Primary school.

The new school will approach us to arrange a visit here at Eilmar to meet and greet both the child and the Key person to discuss the child’s development, for the purposes of transition. This process is internal between us and the school only. Parents are not permitted to be in the classroom as it is a distraction to their own and other children in the room. If a Parent wishes to discuss their child with the Primary Teacher we are more than willing to accommodate this request in the nursery office. This meeting will be after the visit is completed by the Primary Teacher, and away from other children and their own child, provided this is pre booked in advance.

Child Protection Policy

Swans is committed to the welfare and protection of all children in its care. As a childcare company we are fully aware of, and abide by, the local child protection in place in each area and we operate and work with parents in following these guidelines.

No smoking policy

We have a no smoking policy. Parents are asking not to smoke in or around the immediate building.

Late Collection Policy

The sessions and closing times are indicated in the brochure. We expect children to be collected promptly. Parents/ carers who know they are going to be late (due to unforeseen circumstances) must inform the nursery. A late collection charge will apply.

Change of circumstances

It is very important we keep the records of your child up to date. If there is any details about your child that change, please pass them to the manager so that the relevant documents can be amended.

Behaviour Policy – Our Aim

We have high expectations of the behaviour of children in our care as well as of parents. We believe children benefit most when adults adopt a consistent and positive approach to behaviour. We aim to adopt a positive and calm attitude throughout the nursery, and our staff, parents and children are encouraged to promote this.

Security Policy

We have taken numerous steps to ensure all children are safe at our nursery. All doors are secure and outdoor areas are fenced. Prior to your child joining the nursery you will be asked to complete a ‘Collection of Child Authorisation Form’. This records the details of persons, other than immediate parents/ carers that you have authorised to collect your child from the nursery.

We also ask that parents do not let any other person into the nursery that you are not familiar with, even if you believe they are another parent. We understand that this may appear rude, but it necessary for the protection of the children.

Customer Complaints Policy

If you have any cause for complaint, please speak in the first instance to the nursery manager. Written complaints will be passed as relevant to the appropriate person and they will endeavour to respond to you promptly.
You may also contact the OFSTED office based locally to the nursery that you child attends. Details of this are displayed at the nursery.

Medication Policy

We do not administer medication, unless it is for life threatening illnesses, for example inhalers for asthma or epipens. If on going medication is required, then a health care plan is completed for your child and held at the nursery. In addition, if your child should develop medical problems and warrant further assistance whilst at nursery, parents/ carers are expected to collect their child from the nursery.  Children who have been abroad for long periods are requested to be checked and a doctor’s note produced before admission into the nursery.