Our Policies

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ADMISSION POLICY:

Aim: To support those wishing to attend Birch Farm.  

 Objective:To operate a fair procedure where by those children wishing to attend Birch Farm are admitted into the room most appropriate for their age and stage of development, Subject to availability.

• A registration form must be completed and signed by a parent/carer for the relevant section, this will be deemed as acceptance of our Fees & Conditions.  All information on this form will be treated in the strictest confidence.  This registration form must be submitted with £100 to secure your child/s place at Birch Farm, unless you have moved up from another section or already have a sibling within the nursery.

• Inoculations are not a specified requirement at Birch Farm.

• Discount is available to those children with siblings already at Birch Farm, or through our other discount schemes.

• No child will be refused admission to Birch Farm in accordance with our ‘Equal Opportunities’. Should a place not be available a child would be placed on a waiting list. This is operated on a first come first served basis and parents carers will be contacted when a space becomes available.  The exception of this rule is for children receiving government funding who are given priority over spaces as per Birch Farms agreement with Suffolk County Council.  

• Children are required to attend a minimum of two sessions (6 hours) per week.   A session comprises a morning or an afternoon.

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BEHAVIOUR POLICY:

Aim : Birch Farm will endeavour to support all children attending Birch Farm to gain the most from their time in our setting, to ensure all children are able to enjoy and achieve to the best of their ability with appropriate support where needed. This includes challenging any discriminatory remarks and behaviour in line with our Equal Opportunities Policy.

 Objectives:

• Staff model positive behaviour and language at all times and challenge inappropriate language or behaviour made by children, staff, parents/carers or visitors. If staff are unable to challenge this behaviour immediately a report will be made to the management team and named behaviour management officer:

 Mini Shakespeare & Abi Borrett

•  Good manners and self-discipline are encouraged and praised at every opportunity.

• Positive reinforcement of good or sensitive behaviour is vital.

• There is no punishment area, corner or naughty chair, however a child may be removed from the main body of a group to calm down and talk through the situation. Staff will not use any form of physical intervention, e.g. holding, unless it is necessary to prevent personal injury to the child, other children, an adult or serious damage to property. Where this becomes necessary the parent/ carer will be informed and an incident record completed which parents/ carers will be asked to sign.

• Aggressive behaviour, bullying or discriminatory remarks directed at individual children or adults will not be tolerated. Encouragement is given to share and to consider the ‘other persons’ point of view. Where necessary an individual ‘behaviour plan’ may be instigated to provide a consistent pattern of management. Parents advice will be sought in this matter.

• Corporal punishment or the threat of it is never used by staff, behaviour strategies will also be given to any person who carers for or who is in regular contact with children as required.

• Acceptable and non acceptable behaviour patterns are discussed and addressed throughout our planned activities and form part of the process of enabling children to understand right from wrong.

• Any incident occurring will be reported to the parent/carer on the same day, if appropriate an  incident form will be completed and kept in the child’s file as a record.

• Birch Farm has 2 named members of staff who are responsible for behaviour management issues and will support staff and parents/carers as necessary and will recommend expert advice if ordinary methods are not effective. The named members are Mini Shakespeare and Abi Borrett who have received additional training to support in this role.

• Should a child on site become a concern due to their behaviour and/or threaten the welfare of either staff or their peers, the following procedure should be followed:

• Keep calm and remove either the individual child or the other group members from the room/area.

• Call Mini or Abi to support.

• If the situation does not ease contact the parents / carers.

• Where necessary develop a long term behaviour plan for the individual child.

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COMMON ASSESSMENT FRAMEWORK POLICY AND PROCEDURE

 Aim : To work with parent and carers of children who have unmet needs in line with the national strategies laid out by Every Child Matters documentation where Common Assessment Framework (CAF )is identified as the best option.

 Objectives:

• In line with the Suffolk County Council CAF team ensure all senior staff have basic CAF knowledge through the use of on line training leaflets and published information to ensure support for parents / carers and children where required.

• Work with parents and carers of any child deemed to have an unmet need that requires the CAF process to be followed including seeking informed consent including involving the child where appropriate.

• Continue to work with parents and carers where informed consent is not achieved until the process is deemed unnecessary or consent is obtained.

• Use the following Suffolk County Council flow chart to guide the CAF process

• Completion of a CAF form will be undertaken only be a trained member of staff if this is not possible support will be gained from Suffolk County Council to complete the form.

• Ensure staff are available to attend CAF meetings as required.

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COMMUNICATION POLICY

 Aim:To ensure equal opportunity to all those who wish to use Birch Farm we will endeavour to communicate using a variety of methods or have factual information translated as required using available resources

 This will be achieved using outside agencies as required and as are available to Birch Farm Staff.

 Objectives:

• Birch Farm will use the Families Information Service and online translation services to help translate any factual information that is required by present or future parents/ Carers.

• Staff with English as an additional language will be supported to understand all policies and procedures but will only be employed in line with Early Years Foundations Stage issued by DCFS in  May 2008.

• Where possible parents / carers will be asked if they have available family or friends who could help to translate verbal conversation with staff such as progress reports.

• Birch Farm is a baby signing accredited nursery and children are encouraged to use Tiny Talk baby signs. Parents are offered a pack and encouraged to undertake the same at home.

• Abi Clarke has achieved Level 1 in Makaton an is hoping to progress to level 2. She is our named support officer for non verbal communication and will support parents where possible.

• Where needed alternative methods of communication such as letters and e-mails rather than verbal language are offered.

• All children and their families are allocated a keyperson. This staff member will liase with parents / carers on a daily basis and are responsible for completing observations and planning for their individual key children in line with our keyperson policy.

• We use visual timelines to outline the key points of the day, and also other visual prompts such as visual toilet or snack routines to help children to develop their skills.

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COMPLAINTS  POLICY:

Aim: Birch Farm believes that everyone has a right to be treated fairly and with respect and takes seriously any person complaints regarding any part of their experience at Birch Farm.

Objective: Where possible to resolve any difficulties quickly and efficiently and to make changes to the running of Birch Farm where deemed necessary.

• Any parent/ visitor or staff member that feels the need to complain regarding any matter at Birch Farm, should where possible first direct their complaint to the head of the section involved.

• Sarah Sharman as manager or Nick Leeder as deputy will also make time available to discuss complaints should parents/ visitors or staff require a private meeting.  This can be arranged for all those involved. 

• If the situation has not been resolved to the satisfaction of the parent/ visitor or staff member, a written complaint should be sent to Sarah Sharman – Nursery Manager of Birch Farm, Mini Shakespeare – site director or Diana and Richard Bryce may also be contacted as owners of Birch Farm if the complainant so wishes.

• Any complaint received, whether written or verbal will be recorded by the nursery manager.  Complaints will be recorded within our complaints log and these may be reviewed at any time.  Following a complaint the nursery manager will investigate thoroughly.  The results of the investigation along with any action taken will be given to the complantive within 28 days. 

• Parents may at any time contact OFSTED with whom Birch Farm is registered:

• Telephone:  0300 1231231

• Our complaints log is held in the Birch Farm Reception.

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CONFIDENTIALITY  POLICY:

The following legislation is relevant to this policy:

The Data Protection Act 1998

The Freedom of Information Act 2000

Aim: To ensure all information received by Birch Farm is only used as intended and all information is stored safely and securely and disposed of appropriately. 

• Confidential information is required regarding all children when registering at Birch Farm.  All this and any subsequent information is treated with the strictest of confidence.  All information is kept on site at Birch Farm for the duration of the time the child attends. Following children leaving all registration forms are kept for a further 2 years in line with The Data Protection Act, Accident and medication forms are kept for 7 years as per requirements. Registration forms are stored in the office in a locked cabinet.

• All staff are aware for the need of privacy and confidentiality regarding any family whilst at Birch Farm.  Staff know that they may not give out any information relating to a child, or disclose any information, including telephone numbers, regarding a family at Birch Farm without prior consent from the family. Staff and student induction specifically includes an awareness of this.  Information is also stored on our Instant Nursery Manager System.  This package has a password system as does the computer.  All computers have relevant security packages installed. 

• Observations are regularly undertaken by all staff and these observations are used to inform us of children’s developmental stages and help us plan activities appropriate for their needs.  These observations are kept confidential by staff in the child’s individual file. Files are available for parents to view either at parents evenings or on request. All Files are stored in the section of the nursery the child is presently attending.

• In line with legislation should a concern be raised over a child's safety information would only be shared with those who needed to know and all reports who be kept in a secure location on site. 

• Children in receipt of Early Years Government Funding have information recorded that is sent to the local authority to process.  A fair processing notice is issued by a DFCSF and a copy of this is below.

• The Early Years Setting holds information on children in order to support their development, to monitor their progress, to provide appropriate pastoral care, and to assess how well the Setting as a whole is doing.  This information includes contact details, attendance information, characteristics such as ethnic group, special educational needs and any relevant medical information.  From time to time Early Years Settings are required to pass on some of this data to LAs, the DCSF and to agencies that are prescribed by law, such as QCA and Ofsted.  In particular, at age five an assessment is made of all children (the Foundation Stage Profile) and this information is passed to the Local Authority and receiving maintained school.

• Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education, Children's Services and Skills and Ofsted do not routinely process any information about individual children. However, whilst Ofsted holds no records of individual children’s progress, it does use information about the achievement of groups of children to help inform its judgements about the quality of education in Early Years Settings.   

•      Under The Data Protection Act 1998 we ensure that information is:

1.  Fairly and lawfully processed

2. Processed for limited purpose

3. Adequate, relevant and not excessive

4. Not kept for longer than necessary

5. Processed in line with your rights

6. Secure

• Not transferred to other countries without adequate protection

• We are registered with the information commissioner’s office in line with requirements of the data protection act 1998.

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Early Education Funding Policy

 Aim:     To provide free funded sessions to children over the age of 3years following the guidelines laid out by Suffolk County Council.

 Objectives:

• Funding is to be offered to children the term after their third birthday.

• Children are entitled to 15 hours per week 38 weeks per year

• Children are entitled to use up to 6 hrs in any 1 day. (Early Education funding does not cover the cost of meals)

• Additional hours and meals will be invoiced for on a termly basis.

• Funding can be shared between 2 settings and we reserve the right to contact other named settings to confirm how many hours are being used.

• Evidence of your child’s date of birth will be required in order to process your Early Education Grant application.

•  Early Education Funding is applied for on a termly basis and new forms must be completed and signed for each term in order for us to process your application.

• All information given on your funding form will be shared with Suffolk County Council and any associated companies managing the Early Education Funding scheme.

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EQUAL  OPPORTUNITIES:

The following legislation is relevant to this policy:

The Equality Act 2010

The Children’s Act 1989

The Children’s Act 2004

 Statement of Intent:

• Here at Birch Farm we are committed to providing equality of opportunity through anti discrimination practice for all families and children who use our nursery.

• We recognise that many groups are discriminated against and we as an organisation are against this and will take steps to eliminate discriminatory practice. Birch Farm will not tolerate any discrimination regarding

• Gender, Marital Status, Age, Race, Nationality, Religion, Physical Disability, Medical Disability, Social Disability

• Aimed at staff, children, parents or anyone attending Birch Farm.

•  This statement and policy is given to all staff and is available on our web site and in our operational plan.

• Families are name aware of our equal opportunities policy through nursery information packs .

Aims:

• To provide a safe and secure environment for all our children

• Include and value the views of our parents and carers

• Provide and promote information regarding other ethnic groups and people with disabilities

• Ensure that our admissions policy does not discriminate in any way

• Welcome everyone into our nursery

• Disseminate our knowledge of equality

In line with The Early years Foundation Stage 2007 this is implemented by

Admissions

• Our nursery is open to every member of the community, by advertising in local magazines and using our web site.

• All children have an equal opportunity to attend Birch Farm

• If spaces are full we operate a waiting list based on a first come first served basis.

• We will try to offer alternative session where possible in conjunction with parents and carers needs and requirements

• If a child is in receipt of Early years Government funding we are obligated to offer these children spaces first in agreement with Suffolk County Council.

• Our information can be provided in other languages upon request.

• We do not discriminate against any child with a disability or refuse entry because of a disability.

• All parents can see a copy of our policy that are within our operational plan within the reception area.

• All staff & Students are made aware of all policies within their staff pack when starting at Birch Farm.

Employment

• Everyone has an equal chance to apply for a position and information can be translated if needed.

• Adverts are placed with local Children’s information service, job centre and on our web site to allow everyone equal access.

• The applicant who best meets the job criteria if offered the position subject to references and Criminal Records Checks.

• We ensure people are able to work within this country as per legislation.

• Any inappropriate comments or behaviour made by staff are challenged and may lead to disciplinary action if required.

Training

• Birch Farm provides equal opportunities for all staff with regard to training, staff are required to attend First Aid, Safeguarding Children and Food Hygiene in line with The Early Years Foundation Stage. Other courses are offered equally to all subject to spaces and funding being available.

• Staff are supported to undertake training with flexible working hours where possible.

 Curriculum

• The curriculum offered encourages children to develop positive attitudes to people who are different from themselves.

• Children will be encouraged to listen, learn and appreciate the cultural, physical and emotional needs of themselves and others through play activities. We work with families to help children express and celebrate their individual cultural needs.

• We support equal opportunities by:

• Celebrating a wide range of festivals

• Gaining respect with a positive environment

• Making children feel valued

• Avoiding stereotypes/ derogatory images or remarks

• Ensuring the curriculum is inclusive to all children by differentiating activities as required.

• Help children to understand discriminatory behaviour and remarks are unacceptable

• Staff and students are given a code of conduct prior to starting at the nursery 

• All children’s development will be recorded in the same format across the whole site using The Learning Journey. All information will be documented and photos, observations etc will be taken.

• The resources within the nursery will ensure that boys and girls have full access to all activities and equipment and are encourages to enjoy and learn from them.

• Diversity in Families

• Birch farm support and work with all families

• We encourage children to talk about their home life and what they do

• We are happy for parents/ carers to participate in nursery life at a level suitable to individual families.

• Parents / Carers with English as an additional language are asked to use their knowledge to support nursery staff. All paperwork will be translated with the help of Suffolk County Council Family Information Service and Internet translation programmes.

 Food

• We work in partnership with parents/ carers to ensure that we receive the medical, cultural and dietary needs on the registration form to ensure individual needs are met.

• Where necessary parents/ carers will be contacted for support with medical, dietary or cultural advice.

• Children learn about a range of food within meal and snack times as well as partaking in food tasting activities. They are encouraged to try all foods but never forced.

• Children learn to respect peoples differences with regard to food by discussions at meal and snack times and stories as appropriate.

• All allergies are recorded in both the kitchen and individual rooms with photographs to ensure safety. All staff are notified of individual dietary needs.

 Racial Incidents & Harassment

• We ensure that all racial incidents and racial harassment is taken very seriously and staff are made aware of all issues surrounding this.

• Any one seen to be doing this immediate disciplinary procedures will begin.

• If a member of staff, a child, or visitor feels that there is an issue then they may report this to the management team and action will be taken immediately.

• If necessary legal action can be taken by people who feel that they are being racially abused.

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HEADLICE POLICY

Aim: To support the health and well being of all persons in the nursery

Objective:         The parent of any child who has headlice will be informed and posters will be displayed throughout the nursery to inform others.

•  We encourage the parents to check their children’s hair regularly and supply them with posters and leaflets with advice on what to look for.

• A preventative measure is to brush and comb children’s hair vigorously in the morning and before going to bed as this will injure the lice and they will quickly die.

The following aromatherapy solution may offer a natural alternative to chemicals:

2 drops Rosemary oil

2 drops Lavender oil

2 drop Eucalyptus oil

2 drops Geranium oil

 These should be mixed in a jug of warm water and used as a final rinse after normal shampoo.

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HEALTHY LIFESTYLES POLICY

Statement and Aim:

Birch Farm Children’s Nursery is committed to providing children with healthy meals and snacks and physical exercise in an environment where they can grow and develop to their full potential. We aim to meet the needs of each individual child by helping to support them to lead a healthy lifestyle.

This policy supports the following legislation and government guidelines:

Every Child Matters 2002

The Early Years Foundation Stage 2008

The Childcare Act 2006

Objectives:

• To provide healthy meals and snacks

• Provide fruit and/or Vegetables at every meal time

• To provide the opportunity for physical exercise throughout the day

•  To work with parents/ carers to keep informed as to any changes in their child’s needs of development.

• To meet the needs of each individual child.

• To ensure fresh air through outdoor play daily and offering an open door policy where possible.

• Healthy Eating

Breakfast:

All sections provide a breakfast bar where the children are encouraged to make healthy choices. The breakfast bar contains:

• Milk / Water

• Cereal

• Toast

• Fresh Fruit

Snacks:

• Within Catkins we offer a variety of snacks between mealtimes, usually 10am and 2.30pm or when it is needed by the child. The children are offered water fresh fruit and a carbohydrate

• Pippins and Acorns operate a morning and afternoon snack bar, this allows children to make healthy choices and decide when they are hungry. The children have to choose their name (photos are added as required), collect a bowl and select a portion of fruit and/ or vegetables and a carbohydrate.

• Milk and water are offer to drink and children are encouraged to pour their own.

• Pictorial references are used to show children what is on offer and a photo timeline shows children what to do.

Lunch and Tea

• Food is prepared fresh daily by our on site chef using ingredients bought daily. Children are offered 2 portions of fruit and/ or vegetables as part of a main meal, in addition to that offered during snacks. At Birch Farm we try to support children towards a large percentage of their 5 portions of fruit and vegetables per day. No salt or other additives are added into our meals and we offer a balance of protein, carbohydrate, fats, sugars and fruit and vegetables within our daily menu to support children’s dietary needs. All dietary requirements are taken into consideration with the preparation of meals and similar alternatives are given.

• Children who are asleep are given lunch or tea when they awake. If food is reheated we use a food probe to ensure temperatures exceed 75˚c.

• Food is delivered to each section and prepared according to the requirements of the child.

• Servings in Pippins and Catkins are kept moderately small to encourage those who are not confident at mealtimes, and encouraged second helpings which children can serve themselves for those who wish for more. Acorns children are encouraged to serve themselves at least part of their meals. This encourages fine motor and social skills.

• Children are encouraged to try all meals but never forced to eat anything they do not wish to. If a child was not to eat any main course then a dessert will still be offered. Fresh fruit is always available if an alternative is needed.

Holiday Club

Packed Lunches:

Children who bring in lunch boxes are encouraged to:

• Have no fizzy sweets/ chocolate bars

• Have no fizzy drinks

• Always eat savoury first

• Not share or swap food with others

 We suggest the following items:-

• Breadsticks / crackers

• Vegetable sticks

• Fresh or dried fruit

• Yoghurts

• Sandwiches/ Pittas

 Throughout the day the holiday club have access to water and are offered snacks in between meals.

They are encouraged to take part in physical activities daily and have access to the outdoors all day. The holiday club are also offered the chance to go swimming in our indoor pool subject to lifeguard being available.

Drinks

• Birch Farm will ensure that all children have access to water throughout the day and at mealtimes. Staff will encourage the children to access this especially after exercise and in hot weather.

• Babies who still have bottles feeds are held whilst feeding to enforce a feeling of love and security.

• All staff hot drinks are kept securely out of reach of all children.

Special Occasions.

• For special occasions such as children’s birthdays, leaving etc. We encourage parents to bring in healthy options rather than sweets and cakes to ensure we are giving the children healthy choices. We suggest that parents bring in fruit or vegetable platters that we can share with all children at snack times.

Dietary Requirements

• At Birch Farm we feel this to be very important so ask that we have parent/carer support so that we are able to cater for special requirements that their child may need. All dietary needs are recorded within the kitchen including photographs to ensure all those working with the children are aware of their dietary needs. Each child is also given a nursery placemat with their name and any dietary requirement, these are colour coded for easy identification.

Records.

• In Catkins a record is kept of the child’s daily intake of food within their daily diary which parents/carers can take home.

• In Pippins and Acorns charts are displayed for parents / carers to access upon collection.

Exercise

• Throughout the day the children are encouraged to get fresh air and exercise. This is supported by staff playing games, setting up obstacle courses and supporting the children whilst outdoors.

• Staff also take the children on walks around the grounds. The children are also encouraged to take part in dance and actions song sessions. This also helps to develop skills in language and following instructions.

• Children have indoor/ outdoor access wherever possible through the day to support development. Children with special needs are supported to enable them to take part in daily exercise and activities are adapted to support their needs.

Exercise for non mobile children

• The babies are given the opportunity for fresh air and exercise within the playground using push along toys and rockers. They also have their own garden in which they can crawl and explore. For those who are yet to crawl we encourage exercise using baby entertainers and baby gyms.

Additional facilities

• All sections have the opportunity to use the sports barn where they can access lots of equipment to support their development indoors and outdoors.

• Within Acorns a weekly PE session takes place on different days each week to ensure as many children as possible take part.

• Swimming is offered to all children over 3 years old. Children are given a ½ hr weekly slot where they enjoy a swim session to encourage physical exercise and also confidence within the water. We work on a 1:6 staff to child ratio and staff go into the pool with the children helping and supporting them. There is always a lifeguard in attendance.

Health

• The premises at Birch Farm are cleaned on a daily basis. All staff are aware of good hygiene practices and are kept up to date with hygiene procedures. Children are constantly reminded of good hygiene practices, especially when using the toilet. All children are taught to wash their hands after using the toilet/ nappy changes, going outside and before eating. All children are highlighted to the fact that outside there may be germs – dirt, wild and domestic animals and to wash their hands on re-entering nursery. Good hygiene is reinforced through activities and positive images around the site and through staff role modelling good practice at all times.

• All rooms have access to anti bacterial hand gel should this be required such as when helping children with runny noses.

• Parents/Carers are required to complete a registration form detailing dietary and medical requirements, this information is transferred to each room with photographs to ensure children with dietary or medical needs can be quickly identified by all staff. To further support this each child has a colour coded placemat, white indicates no dietary need, coloured mats indicate a dietary requirement.

• All staff attend a food handling course as soon as one becomes available, this is renewed every 3 years. Staff wear disposable aprons when preparing or serving food and snacks. 

• In accordance with the Public Health (infectious diseases) Regulations 1988, should 2 or more children fall ill from food poisoning, or if any child is reported to have meningitis or that we have an outbreak of a notifiable disease as by the Public Health (control of diseases) Act 1984, any such case will be reported to the relevant authority.

• All medicines must be handed to a permanent member of staff and a parent / carer must complete a medication form before medicine can be administered. Two staff members must initial acceptance of medicine and be responsible that it is administered at the appropriate time. The medicine must be labelled and stored appropriately away from children. At the end of the day parents/carers must check and sign the medication form and take the medication home.

• Should a child require calpol or piriton during the day a parent/ carer will be contacted where possible before administering to a child. If a parent / carer is not contactable medication will only be given if the child has been in nursery for 4 or more hours and if the parent/ carers has signed consent on the registration form.

• Should a child or staff member require an epipen to be stored on site an epipen plan will be written and the pen replaced as required or if used & staff will be given training on administration.

• There is a first aid box located in each section and a staff / visitors first aid box located in reception. Contents are checked and signed for monthly by section leaders. All permanent staff are required to attend paediatric first aid training every three years or as soon after as a course can be sought.

• No child may be accepted into Birch Farm while ill with a contagious disease, and no child may return to Birch Farm until the child has been fit and well for 24 hours or as otherwise started on the health and guidance documentation. Should a child fall ill whilst at Birch Farm parents/ carers will be contacted to arrange collection as soon as possible. The child will be made comfortable and a member of staff will remain with them until they are collected.

• All accidents are recorded on Birch Farm accident forms including date, time and nature of accidents these are countered signed by a member of the management team. Upon collection of a child from nursery parents / carers are asked to check and sign accident forms.

 Toileting

• All children who wish to use the toilet are free to do so but are encouraged to tell a member of staff where they are going. For those children who require support staff are to accompany children assisting with clothing and bottom wiping as required. Staff should ensure that toilets are kept flushed and tided through out the day including a mid day clean using antibacterial spray.  Children are encouraged to develop their independence in using the toilet and wash their hands fully with staff support until this is achieved. Positive images and timelines are displayed showing children following the toileting and washing hands routine.

Nappy Changing

• Children’s nappies are changed when they require changing by the child’s keyperson wherever possible. Pampers nappies and sudocrem are used should a child be allergic to these notes are made in the nappy changing room and alternatives used.

  The following procedure is followed:

• Make sure you wear a new pair of gloves for each child.

• Use the correct nappy size

• Use cream as required and as appropriate for individual children

• Dispose of the nappy within the nappy bin

• Make a note of any new marks on a child’s body, complete an existing injury report if required. This should be shown to the parents/ carers and signed on collection. 

• Complete nappy chart

• Spray nappy mat with anti – bacterial spray & surrounding surfaces.

• Wash hands/ Staff & Children

• Only staff who have received enhanced CRB checks are able to change nappies. New CRB forms are issued to staff upon starting at Birch Farm.

Smoking

• Birch Farm operates a no smoking policy. Should a member of staff wish to smoke during the day they may do so during their designated break times and in the designated smoking area away from the children. Staff must ensure they do not smell of smoke upon reentering the nursery.

• Any staff member found smoking other than in the designated smoking area will be disciplined following the disciplinary and grievance procedure laid out in the staff pack. This is in line with legislation.

•  Any site visitors that wish to smoke during their time at Birch Farm they will be shown to the designated smoking area. Should a visitor be found smoking within Birch Farm they will be asked to leave the site in line with legislation.

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HEALTH and SAFETY POLICY:

Aim:

We aim to make children, parents and staff aware of health and safety issues and to minimise the hazards and risks to enable children to thrive in a healthy and safe environment.

We will ensure that:

• We provide adequate control of health and safety risks.

• Risk assessments are carried out and reviewed daily and annually.

• Information, instruction, training and supervision is provided for our employees.

• We provide and maintain a safe place and equipment.

• All staff are aware of the importance of good hygiene practice and are kept up to date with hygiene procedures.

• We consult with our employees on matters affecting health and safety.

• Procedures are in place for safe handling and use of substances.

• Procedures are in place to ensure compliance with current fire regulations.

• We maintain safe and healthy working conditions, and

• We shall revise and review this policy as necessary at regular intervals.

 At Birch Farm children’s nursery we believe that the health and safety of children is of paramount importance. We are committed to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of the children, parents, staff, volunteers and other visitors.

Risk Assessment

Our risk assessment process includes:

• Checking for hazards and risks indoors and outside, and in our activities procedures. Our assessment covers adults and children;

• Deciding which areas need attention;

• Developing an action plan that specifies the action required, the timescales for action, the person responsible for the action and any funding required.

• We maintain lists of health and safety issues, which are checked daily before the session begins and continually during the day

Insurance cover

• We have public liability insurance and employers’ liability insurance. The certificate for employers’ liability insurance is displayed on the notice board in reception

Awareness

• Our induction training for staff and volunteers includes a clear explanation of health and safety issues so that all adults are able to adhere to our policy and understand their shared responsibility for health and safety. The induction training covers matters of employee well-being, including safe lifting and the storage of potentially dangerous substances.

• Records are kept of these induction training sessions and new staff and volunteers are asked to sign records to confirm that they have taken part.

• As necessary, health and safety training is included in the annual training plans of staff, and health and safety is discussed regularly in staff meetings.

• We have a no smoking policy.

• Children are made aware of health and safety issues through discussion, planned activities and routines.

• Children’s safety

• We ensure all staff employed have been checked for criminal records by an enhanced disclosure from the Criminal Records Bureau.

• All children are supervised by adults at all times.

Security

• Systems are in place for the safe arrival and departure of children. The times of the children’s arrival and departures are recorded.

• The arrival and departure times of staff, volunteers and visitors are all recorded.

• Doors to and from the nursery are properly secured to prevent children gaining access or people entering without permission. If there is nobody on the desk in reception then the front door is locked and the doorbell is to be rung for access. Parents leaving the building are asked to make sure the door is securely shut and not to let anyone else in on their way out. They are to ask a member of staff from one of the rooms nearby to let them in.

• The door between the barn and the nursery is coded on the barn side so that only staff can gain access from the barn into the nursery.

• Children are unable to gain access to an area where staff are unable to see them such as outside. Rooms in Acorns have high handles which children are unable to reach.

• Should anyone gain access, staff should lock the doors and ring the Police.

Kitchen

• Children do not have unsupervised access to the kitchen.

• All surfaces are clean and non-porous.

• There are separate facilities for hand-washing and for washing up.

• Cleaning materials and other dangerous materials are stored out of children’s reach.

When children take part in cooking activities, they;

• are supervised at all times;

• are kept away from hot surfaces and hot water; and

• do not have unsupervised access to electrical equipment

Electrical/ Oil equipment

• All electrical/ oil equipment conforms to safety requirements and is checked regularly.

• Our boiler/electrical switchgear/meter cupboard is not accessible to the children.

• Fires, heaters, electric sockets, wires and leads are properly guarded and the children are taught not to touch them.

• There are sufficient sockets to prevent overloading.

• The temperature of hot water is controlled to prevent scalds.

• Lighting and ventilation is adequate in all areas including storage means.

Storage

• All resources and materials from which children select are stored safely.

• All equipment and resources are stored and stacked safely to prevent them accidentally falling or collapsing.

• Deliveries are cleared away quickly.

• Fire doors are kept closed.

Outdoor Area

• Our outdoor area is securely fenced.

• Our outdoor area is checked for safety and cleared of rubbish before it is used.

• Adults and children are alerted to the dangers of poisonous plants, herbicides and pesticides through ‘Where do we find lists’ and a daily risk assessment.

• All outdoor activities are supervised at all times.

Sun Protection

• Sun’s rays can damage children’s skin, and could lead to skin cancer later in life.  As a consequence we will apply sunscreen before the children go out to play on sunny, warm days and will encourage them to wear a sun hat.  Please provide a factor 50 sunscreen in a named container.  If parents do not provide suncream we will apply nursery suncream.  Parents need to provide their child with a named sun hat – preferably with a wide brim or a legionnaire style.

•  We would request that parents/carers apply sunscreen before they bring their child into nursery and staff will apply extra sunscreen as necessary throughout the day.

•  The hours between 11am and 3pm will be avoided for long outside play times and instead will use our barn to play in during these times.

•  The importance of sun protection will be discussed with the children and will be engaged in activities to promote this issue at the beginning of the summer.

Hygiene

• Our daily routines encourage children to learn about personal hygiene.

• We have a daily cleaning routine for the setting which includes play room(s), kitchen, rest area, toilets.

• We have a schedule for cleaning resources and equipment, dressing-up clothes and furnishings.

• The toilet area had a high standard of hygiene including hand washing and drying facilities.

• We implement good hygiene practices by:

• Checking toilets regularly;

• Cleaning tables between activities;

• Wearing protective clothing such as aprons and disposable gloves- as appropriate;

• Providing sets of clean clothes;

• Providing tissues and wipes and encouraging children to wipe their noses and to cover their coughs

• Staff are trained in Food Hygiene

• The building and all its equipment are maintained in a clean and healthy manner to prevent illness and spread of disease. This is done both by nursery staff and a cleaner who comes in every evening.

 Activities

• The lay out of play equipment allows adults and children to move safely and freely between activities.

• All equipment is regularly checked for cleanliness and safety and any dangerous items are repaired or discarded.

• All materials- including paint and glue - are non-toxic

• Sand is clean and suitable for children’s play.

• Physical play is constantly supervised.

• Children are taught to handle and store toys safely.

• Children who are sleeping are checked regularly.

• Children learn about health, safety and personal hygiene through the activities we provide and the routines we follow.

Food and Drink

• Staff that prepare and handle food receive appropriate training and understand – and comply with – food safety and hygiene regulations.

• All food and drink is stored appropriately.

• Adults do not carry hot drinks through the play area(s) and do not place hot drinks within reach of the children.

• Snack and meal times are appropriately supervised and children do not walk about with food and drink.

• Fresh drinking water is available to children at all times.

• We operate systems to ensure that children do not have access to food/ drinks to which they are allergic.

Fire Safety

• A detailed fire risk assessment is carried out annually.

• Fire doors are clearly marked, never obstructed and easily opened from inside.

• Fire alarms are checked on a regular basis.

• Our emergency evacuation procedures are:

• Clearly displayed in the premises;

• Explained to new members of staff, volunteers and parents; and

• Practised and ensured that all staff are involved

• Records are kept of fire drills and the servicing of fire safety equipment.

 First Aid and Medication

• All staff are first aid trained as well as Birch Farm providing staff with refresher courses. The first aid qualification includes first aid training for infants and young children.

Our first aid kit:

• Complies with Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981;

• Is regularly checked by a designated member of staff and re-stocked as necessary;

• Is easily accessible to adults; and

• Is kept out of reach of children.

• All first aid administered, no matter how trivial, is to be recorded in the Accident/Incident Report Books. Staff accidents are also to be recorded.

Our Accident Book;

• Is kept safely and accessibly;

• All staff and volunteers know where it is kept and how to complete it; and

• Is reviewed at least half termly to identify any potential or actual hazards.

• Ofsted is notified of any injury requiring treatment by a general practitioner or hospital doctor, or the death of a child or adult.

Administration of Medication

• All Medication may be administered. But it must be in-date and prescribed for the current condition. If non prescribed such as teething gel etc. prior permission must be sought before administering.

• Children taking prescribed medication must be well enough to attend the setting.

• Children’s prescribed medications are stored in their original containers, are clearly labelled and are inaccessible to the children

• Medication is to be handed to the supervisor of the room or in case of absence to the deputy.

• Parents give prior written permission for the administration of medication by using the Birch Farm medication form. This states the name of the child, name/s of parent(s), date the medication starts, the name of the medication and prescribing doctor, the does and times, or how and when the medication is to be administered.

• The administration is recorded accurately each time it is giver and is signed by 2 members of staff.

• Parents sign the record book to acknowledge the administration of medicine.

• If the administration of prescribed medication requires medical knowledge, individual training is provided for the relevant member of staff by a health professional.

• Should a child require Capol or Piriton during the day then the parents/carers are contacted before any is administered. In the case of an emergency Capol would be given to a child as long as they have been in the nursery for 4 or more hours. Parents sign for the permission on registration to the setting.

• Should a child fall ill whilst at Birch Farm, parents will be contacted and collection will need to be affected as soon as possible.

• For any child with an additional illness an individual medication plan will be drawn up and additional training will be sought as required.

• Medication is stored in accordance with the instructions.

Sickness

• We do not provide care for children who have sickness and diarrhoea, or who have an infectious disease. Children are unable to attend nursery until they have been well for at least 48 hours.

• Children with headlice are not excluded, but must be treated to remedy the condition.

• Parents are notified if there is a case of headlice in the setting.

• Parents are notified if there is an infectious disease, such as chicken pox.

• Good hygiene practice concerning the clearing of any spilled bodily fluids is carried out at all times.

• Environmental Health is notified of any infectious diseases that a qualified medical person considers notifiable.

• In accordance with public health (infectious diseases) regulations 1988, should two or more children fall ill from food poisoning, or if any child is reported to have meningitis or should Birch Farm have an outbreak of a notifiable disease identified as such in the Public Health (control of disease) Act 1984, any such case will be reported to the relevant authority.

Safety of Adults

In accordance with the National Standards for Day Care, We keep records of;

Adults;

• Names and addresses of all staff on premises, including temporary staff who work with the children or who have substantial access to them;

• Names and addresses of the owners;

• All records relating to the staff’s employment with the setting, including application forms, references, results of checks undertaken etc.

Children;

• All parents or carers are asked to fill out a registration, medical and dietary form before leaving their child in our care. These include:

• Names, addresses and telephone numbers of parents and adults authorised to collect children from setting;

• The names, addresses and telephone numbers of emergency contacts in case of children’s illness or accident;

• The allergies, dietary requirements and illness of individual children.

• Children in Catkins are checked every 10 minutes and Pippins checked every 15 minutes whilst they are sleeping.   Documented sleep charts are kept daily, and parents are informed of their child’s sleep/s each day.  Should a child fall asleep whilst in Acorns , they are monitored in the same way as Pippins.

• Birch Farm ensures at all times that staff:child ratios are maintained as registered with Ofsted.  Birch Farm ensures at all times that the correct number of children are allowed to attend as per our registration with Ofsted.

• Children are never left unsupervised.

• Forms are also used to record:

• The times of attendance of children, staff, volunteers and visitors;

• Accidents and medicine administration records;

• Consents for administration of medication, emergency treatment

• Existing injuries; and Incidents

 The following people are responsible for:

• Registration of the nursery – Proprietor/ Director – Through OFSTED

• Insurance – Proprietor/ Director

• Fire Alarm Servicing – Management

• PAT Testing – Management

• Recycling Service – Management – Babergh District Council

• General up keep of the setting – Proprietor, Management & Caretaker

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LOST OR UNCOLLECTED CHILDREN:

Aim: To ensure safety and security of all children in our care.

• If a child is not collected at the end of a session/day, we implement the following:

•  The daily register/diary is checked for any information about changes to the normal collection routine.  If no information is available, parents/carers are contacted at home or at work.  If this is unsuccessful the emergency contacts authorised by the parents/carers on their registration forms will be contacted. 

• The child would be kept at Birch Farm, until collection effected.

•  In extreme cases we would contact known friends, family and finally the police.

•  Should this still not effect a collection, we will contact our local authority social services department, telephone number 08456 023 023 or main switch board 01473 583000.

•  A written report of the incident is recorded.

•  Depending on circumstances, we reserve the right to charge parents for the additional hours worked by our staff. 

 If a child is lost we implement the following:

• All attempts to locate the child would be exhausted through staff searching the local area, buildings an last known location.  Thereafter the police would be informed and parents /carers contacted.

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MANAGEMENT & ADMINISTRATION:

• Birch Farm is a family run business and endeavours to provide an excellent childcare service to the immediate community, forging close links with the school and the surrounding rural and urban communities.  The day to day administration of the site is directed by Mini Shakespeare, supported by Diana Bryce and the Manager Sarah Sharman. The development and maintenance of the site is managed by Richard Bryce and Mick Watt.   Regular management meetings are held to discuss the ongoing and forward planning of Birch Farm.

• There is a section leader in charge of each area of the nursery, who are responsible for the day to day management.  There is a deputy room leader for when the room leader is unavailable.  Regular meetings are held between management to help maintain and improve the high standards offered at Birch Farm.

• Our insurance for Birch Farm is reviewed and renewed annually.   A copy of our Employers Liability is displayed in reception and all section notice boards.  We have public liability cover for up to £10 million.

• All our policies are developed and used for the efficient and safe management of Birch Farm and are regularly reviewed.  These are as detailed in our Operational Plan.  Parents and Ofsted will be informed of any significant changes to our premises or our Operational Plan. Ofsted and The Child Protection Agency will be informed of any allegations of abuse which have taken place on the premises and a full investigation undertaken by management.  Ofsted would also be informed of any other significant events.  We inform The Early Years & Training Unit of any changes in staff.

• Our advertising and marketing strategy is directed at the local area for both working and non-working parents.  Permission will be sought individually before any photograph/video may be used for advertising purposes.

• Following a successful interview, staff will be subject to our comprehensive staff policies and procedures, which includes a satisfactory CRB Police check.  Any allegations of abuse by a member of staff or volunteer alleged to have taken place on the premises will be brought to the attention of Ofsted forthwith.

• All sections at Birch Farm have short term planning which is done on a weekly basis, medium and long term planning is completed in the form of continuous provision sheets. These are constantly monitored and evaluated.  Records are kept for individual children and are obtained on a daily, weekly, monthly and half termly basis as required. These will be kept confidential and safe at Birch Farm.  Once a child leaves these records are retained for a minimum of 2 years.  These records are always available for parents to see.

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MATERNITY AND PATERNITY POLICY

 Aim: To give support to employees throughout pregnancy.

 Objectives:

• To ensure that they are given the correct entitlements whether it be mother or father of the child

• To cooperate under the statutory maternity pay and leave

Paternity leave and Paternity Pay:

•  A male employee is entitled to take paternity leave and claim maternity pay if:

• He has worked continuously for the employer for at least 26weeks at the end of the 15th week before the expected week of the child’s birth and remains employed up to the date of birth.

• He has provided the information required by the employer for those employees wishing to take paternity.

• He is the biological father of the child and he has, or expects to have, responsibility for the upbringing of the child in conjunction with the child’s mother or

• He is married to or is the partner of the child’s mother and he is, or expects to have, the main responsibility for the upbringing of the child.

Action:

• The following information must be notified to the employer by the end of the 15th week before the expected week of childbirth or, if that deadline is for some reason not reasonably practicable, then as soon as reasonably practicable:

• Confirmation that the employee is the biological father of the child and will have responsibility for the upbringing of the child in conjunction with the mother or if he is married to the child’s mother or he is living with her in an enduring relationship and has or expects to have the main responsibility for the upbringing of the child.

• Confirmation of the expected week of childbirth.

• Confirmation of the date on which he intends to commence paternity leave. (this confirmation must be given in writing)

• Confirmation on whether he intends to take one or two full week’s paternity leave.

• If so required by the employer, a certificate from a registered medical practitioner or a registered midwife stating the expected week of childbirth.

• Confirmation when the baby was actually born, as soon as reasonably practicable after the birth.

• If a male employee fails to provide the above information by the deadline specified, and without a good reason for any delay in doing so, he may forfeit his right to paternity leave.

• The employer will require the employee to complete a self certificate form as evidence of his entitlement to claim paternity leave and/ or paternity pay.

 Length Of Paternity Leave:

• If the male employee satisfies the qualifying conditions and complies with the action required by the employer he will be entitled to choose to take either 1 week or 2 consecutive weeks paternity leave.

•  Paternity leave must be taken in blocks of not less than one or two full weeks. Any lesser period of paternity leave taken will be deemed to constitute a full block of entitlement. Only one period of leave will be permitted irrespective of whether more than one child is born as a result of the same pregnancy.

 When Paternity Leave May Be Taken:

• A male employee may choose to start his paternity leave:

•  From the date of the child’s birth

• From a chosen number of days or weeks after the date of the child’s birth

From a chosen date

•  Paternity leave must be taken within 56days of the actual date of birth of the child, or if the child is born early, within 56 days after the end of the expected week of child birth.

 Statutory Paternity Pay:

• If your average weekly earnings are £102 or more (before tax), Statutory Paternity pay is paid for one or two consecutive weeks at £128.73 or 90% of your average weekly earnings if this is less.  

How it is paid:

• Your employer will pay Statutory Paternity Pay to you in the same way and at the same time as your normal wages. Statutory Paternity Pay is treated as normal pay and so they’ll also deduct tax and national insurance.

 Right To Return:

• If an employee takes paternity leave for a period of 1 or 2 weeks he is entitled to return to the same job which he carried out prior to his absence.

Maternity Leave & Maternity Pay:

 Pregnant employees have four key rights:

• Paid time off for antenatal care

• Maternity Leave

• Maternity pay benefits

• Protection against unfair treatment or dismissal

• Employers also have a certain obligations to ensure the health and safety of pregnant employees

Telling us when you are pregnant:

• You must tell us that you are pregnant at least 15 weeks before the beginning of the week when your baby is due. If this isn’t possible, for example because you didn’t realize you were pregnant, you must tell us as soon as possible. You should also tell us when you want to start your maternity leave and receive maternity pay.

• However the earlier you are able to tell us the more time we will have to be able to plan around your maternity leave.

 Time Off For Antenatal Care:

• All pregnant employees, however long they have been in their jobs, are entitled to reasonable time off work for antenatal care. Any time off must be paid at your normal rate of pay. It is unlawful for us to refuse to give you reasonable time off for antenatal care or to pay you at your normal rate of pay.

• We can ask for evidence of antenatal appointments from the second appointment onwards. If asked you should show us a medical certificate showing you’re pregnant and an appointment card or some other written evidence of your appointment.

• Antenatal care may include relaxation or parent craft classes as well as medical examinations, if these are recommended by your doctor. If you can, try to avoid taking time off work when you can reasonably arrange classes or examinations outside working hours.

 Fathers to be and time off for antenatal appointments:

• Father do not have a legal right to time off to accompany their partners to antenatal appointments as the right to paid time off only applies to pregnant employees.

 Having A Child Through IVF:

• It is unlawful sex discrimination for us to treat a women less favorable because she is undergoing IVF treatment or intends to become pregnant. You will also be entitled to paid time off for antenatal care only after the fertilized embryo has been implanted.

 Health & Safety For Pregnant Employees:

• It is our duty to ensure that any pregnant employee is supported and all hazards and risks are assessed and a plan is drawn up to support them through their pregnancy. The pregnant employee will sit down and draw up a risk assessment with the management team and this will be continuously reviewed throughout the pregnancy.

 Maternity Leave:

• Statutory Maternity Leave is for 52 weeks. You are entitled to receive statutory maternity pay for up 39 weeks of the leave.

 Taking Your Maternity Leave:

• You can start you maternity leave any time from 11 weeks before the beginning of the week when your baby is due. If you’re off work because of your pregnancy in the four weeks before the expected date of birth, your employer can start your maternity leave.

 Returning To Work:

• When you return to work after ordinary maternity leave, you have the right to the same job and the same terms and conditions as you if you hadn’t been absent.

• This also applies when you come back after additional maternity leave, unless your employer shows that it is not reasonably practicable for us to take you back in your original job (for example, it no longer exists).

 Giving Notice Of Your Return To Work:

• If you take your full leave, you don’t need to give notice that you’re coming back, but it’s a good idea to do so. If you decided not to come back to work at al, you must give us notice in the normal way.

 Taking Parental Leave After Maternity Leave:

• If you need more time off to look after your child you may take parental leave. You can take up to four weeks parental leave at the end of your maternity leave without affecting your right to return.

 Maternity Pay:

• Statutory Maternity Pay is for up to 39 weeks.

• To qualify for Maternity pay you must be:

• Employed by us continuously for at least 26 weeks into the 15th week before the week the baby is due.

• Earning as average of £102 a week (before tax) 

• To claim Statutory Maternity Pay you must tell us at least 28 weeks before the date you want to start your Statutory Maternity Pay. We will need you to put this in writing.

 How Much Statutory Maternity Pay Will You Get?:

• We will pay 90% of your average weekly earnings for the first six weeks, then up to £128.73 for the remaining 33 weeks. You will still pay tax and national insurance on this amount.

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MOBILE PHONE USAGE POLICY

 Aim:

 To ensure the safety of children within our care.

 Objectives:

•  To provide the children with a safe environment.

• To ensure that we keep to ratio’s and are giving the children our full attention.

• To adhere to the safeguarding children policies that we have in place.

• For parents reassurance.

•  Staff are to adhere to the policies in place regarding the safeguarding of children and are asked at the start of their shift to put their mobile phones onto silent and into their bags. Staff are not to check these during work hours and are asked to see Mini or Sarah if need to make a call in an emergency. They are also advised that if someone needs to contact them then the nursery number is to be given and calls transferred through. This again is only in an emergency.

• Any member of staff seen to not be adhering to this policy will result in disciplinary action being taken against them.

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OUTINGS POLICY:

• All outings from Birch Farm are arranged and confirmed in advance with parents and written permission obtained.

• All parents are given the choice as to whether their child/ren attend.

• All vehicles used are fitted with seat belts and have a current MOT certificate.

• All vehicles are taxed and insured as a business to carry children.

• Only named drivers on the insurance policy with a current, clean licence are allowed to drive vehicles.

• Key persons are responsible for a small number of children and extra parental help may be required for a trip to take place to ensure our staff:child ratio is appropriate.

• A full risk assessment is completed.

• An attendance register is checked regularly throughout the trip to ensure children are accounted for at all times.

• Essential equipment and records are taken on outings for example: contact numbers, First aid kits, Mobile phones

• Should a child go missing, the senior member of staff will be informed and the management of the venue advised to start their ‘lost child policy’.  The police will be informed should this become necessary - parents will be contacted at this point.

• All staff will submit a written report of the incidence and the procedure reviewed.

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OUTDOOR PLAY POLICY

 Aims:

•  Outdoor play is a vital part of a child's development and Birch Farm aims to support each individual child in their development through such practices of outdoor play.

• To provide children with the opportunity to explore and experience the outdoor environment at Birch Farm.

• To ensure that all children at Birch Farm experience outdoor play to support their holistic development.

• Birch Farm aims for all children to be outside everyday, throughout the year.

 Objectives:

•  Birch Farm highly values the benefits of the outdoor play and encourages staff to plan activities for children outside. At every opportunity we aim for all children to be outside when possible and for staff to implement each of the outdoor environments in the way of bringing the indoors outdoors.

•  In colder weather conditions children have the barn to play in. Birch Farm values this as a place for children to play outdoors but with the shelter of the indoors.

•  In Catkins children are taken outside with the use of buggies so the non-walkers have the same opportunity as the walkers to experience the outdoors.  In the mornings Catkin's children are taken to the playground with the children in Pippins to engage in play together. The same happens with Acorns as they aim to play outside around the same time as pippins which aid the transition stage for children as they do become familiar with other children in the older groups and also the staff. Acorns spend a lot of time outside, mainly after meal times. Barnaby’s is the holiday club and they also explore the outside as much as they can.

• Children are often taken for walks through the land surrounding the nursery, with the 60 acres of fields and woodland the children have a range of environments to explore.

•  Catkins, Pippins and Acorns all have their own outside play area where the children can engage in play activities suitable for their developmental needs and interests. The indoor and outdoor environments both mirror one another for the children to feel familiarity and also have the continuity within the two areas. Outdoor play is a natural enhancement and extension of indoor environments and ideally children should be able to choose to play outside at any time. Birch Farm aims for a flow in between the two areas to give children the choice and within time all three rooms will have the free-flowing access from the indoors to outdoors and vice versa.

•  Risk assessments are undertaken but where activities benefits outweigh the risks they will be offered.

 What can being outside promote?

•  Holistic development – children’s all round development is promoted from being outdoors. 

• Spacial awareness.

• A Healthy appetite.

• Sleep. Fresh air does wonders!

 Birch Farm requests that parents:

•  Provide their child with appropriate clothing e.g. sun-hat for the summer months and gloves, scarf and hat for winter.

• Sensible footwear depending on weather.

• Provide sun cream for your child. It is the responsibility of the staff to apply sun cream to children when it is needed.

• All children’s items are clearly labelled.

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PARENTS AS PARTNERS:

Aim: In order to fully support children Birch Farm believes in a comprehensive parent partnership and uses a variety of methods to develop this.

• Parents must complete a Registration Form before a child may start at Birch Farm.  All information disclosed at by parents/carers will be treated in the strictest confidence.  These records will be kept at Birch Farm at all times and will be kept for 2 years after a child has left.  All records are available for inspection by the Early Years Child Care Inspector.

• We have displayed a poster from Ofsted giving all parents the opportunity to telephone them with any comments regarding our nursery.  Ofsted now outsource to an agency who inspectct on their behalf.  Ofsted no longer give any warning before an inspection.  This is now one inspection covering both care and education.  Parents will be issued with a copy of the report once issued.

• Parents are provided with a ‘Welcome Pack’ for each section so that they familiar with the daily routine, activities provided, etc before they start.  Parents are asked to complete an All about me booklet when they start so that we have a fuller picture of the family as a whole. Photographs provided by these are kept on premises until the child leaves.

• Parents are prime carers and as such their views and concerns are greatly valued and acknowledged.  We operate an Open Door Policy and parents are always welcome to see their child/s work/records at any time.  A written daily diary of information is kept in Catkins and Pippins and shared with parents/carers each day.  In other sections information is verbally shared at the start and end of a session and if necessary written notation made.  There are Parent Sharing Forms available where they sign in/out, should they wish to make any comments regarding the nursery or their child’s care named or anonymously. 

• Each section prepares short which is undertaken on a weekly basis, mid and long term planning, which is in the form of continuous provision sheets, to help ensure every day is well balanced and meets the necessary learning goals.  These are displayed in their foyer for parents/carers to see.  Wall displays are updated regularly with new work and form a very important part of the nursery’s daily routine.

• There is a parents area in reception, which has a variety of information – booklets/leaflets for them to look through.  Should any parent require a copy of any information, they may ask at reception.  This area also contains a copy of The Early Years Foundation Stage. This is the curriculum document that the nursery follows.  Should you wish to borrow a copy please sign it out at reception.   Birch Farm keeps parents informed on a regular basis via newsletters and have ‘parents evening’ in all section every term.  Each section has a foyer where information is displayed, both current and long term.  Parents and carers skills are always welcomed, please share these with us. All our policies are kept in our operational plan file within the Reception and parents/carers are welcome to look at these at any time.

• Parents/ carers have the opportunity to make comments using ‘Wow’ boards in each room, these are then added to their learning journey’s.

• A section within the termly report allows parents to make written comments on their children’s learning.

• Children are only released to persons named on the Registration Form.  Should another person need to collect a child, a password plus a description is used to verify the validity of the collection.

• If a child is identified as a ‘child in need’, appropriate information will be given to the relevant referring agency, usually with the parents’ permission.

• Should any parent/carer who wishes to make a complaint about our nursery should follow the Complaints Procedure as documented.  A record of all complaints with be kept at Reception and is available for any parent/carer to see on request and if requested we undertake to provide Ofsted with a list of complaints and any action taken subsequently for any period.

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RECRUITMENT AND EMPLOYMENT POLICY

 Aim: To ensure that recruitment and the selection process gives equal opportunity to all applicants and that we employ staff ensuring the safety of the children within our care.

 Objectives:

• To ensure that everybody has an opportunity to apply for a position within Birch Farm no matter of race, religion, backgrounds, beliefs etc.

• Curriculum Vitae’s are received and kept in line with the Data Protection Act 1998. Within this we also need to take into consideration full employment history, all qualifications, identity checks and their medical suitability.

• All short listed applicants are considered, and all of these are given a full interview and a show round of the site.

• Applicants that are unsuccessful are always informed via letter

• Those who are successful would receive a full staff pack which includes: A letter explaining the job offered, rate of pay, start day, and weekly hours of work, Policies and procedures, an example copy of a Birch Farm Contract, Staff self sickness form, Staff personal information form, Reference form. All new staff must also sign a form to show they have read and understood the pack they received.

• All new members of the team will have to supply 2 references in which can be contacted to gain information about the suitability of the applicant.

• An enhanced CRB disclosure will be applied for with all new staff and supervision of these staff will be paramount until this is received. This will also be completed for any persons living onsite of the childcare premises over the age of 16 years.

• Records are kept within a staff file to show that all processes have been followed and checks have been made.

• From July 2010 the new Independent Safeguarding Authority state that new staff must register with this scheme before they start work. Until they have registered they legally cannot be employed. We will follow these guidelines.

• Staff notify the management team if they have any convictions, cautions, court orders, reprimands and warnings which may affect their suitability to work with children and the management team will deal with this accordingly.

• Staff will initially be on a 3 months probation period, which the manager will extend if feels necessary. After the 3 months the member of staff will have a meeting which will then determine whether they have a position full time, therefore signing a contract of employment, if they are unsuccessful then their employment will be terminated.

• Staff are given a full induction to the site and then a separate induction for each section so that they understand what is expected of them and so that they learn what they need to do within each area.

• Each year staff have an appraisal in which they are able to discuss any issues and for the management to discuss the member of staffs progress.

• We have regular staff meetings to ensure all staff have the opportunity to feed back from training, to discuss issues and develop and comment on policies and procedures as required. 

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SPECIAL NEEDS POLICY

 Statement

Birch Farm Children’s Nursery is committed to the inclusion of children with additional needs.  The nursery believes that all children have a right to experience and develop alongside their peers.  We celebrate the unique qualities of each individual child and aim to meet the needs of all children in an inclusive environment.  It is a positive experience to be able to share the same opportunities and overcome any difficulties together.

 Aims

• To welcome children with additional needs (special educational needs and disabilities) as part of our community and to ensure that all children have an equal opportunity to access our nursery facilities, resources and curriculum.

• The Early Years Foundation Stage will be differentiated in order to accommodate each child’s individual needs and abilities

• To work in partnership with parents/carers keeping them fully involved in their child’s education through regular opportunities to meet with staff, eg. open days, parent’s evenings.

• To provide a graduated response to support children’s individual needs and where appropriate, actively involve the child in planning for their learning.

• We will liaise with other agencies and professionals in line with Every Child Matters for support, including social services, health visitors, etc as required.

• Birch Farm will have regard to the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 Part III, the Special Needs and Disability Act 2001 and Special Educational Needs Code of Practice 2001.  Birch Farm have access to Disabled Toilets and ramps and where appropriate, additional ones will be provided.

 The name of our Special Educational Needs Co-ordinators (SENCO’S) are:

For under 30 month’s section:   Kirsty Barnes supported  by Abi Clarke For over 30 month’s section:   Kirsty Barnes supported  by Abi Clarke 

            Area Senco:                                Sarah Sole                            

            Senco officer:                           Angela Bridges                        

• The SENCO’S in liaison with the manager, are responsible for the individual education programme for children identified with special educational needs and disabilities.

•  The SENCO co-ordinators are responsible for liasing with all members of staff in order for them to recognise and support children with special educational needs.

•  Manager and SENCO will encourage staff through staff inductions and staff ongoing training, to have awareness and understanding of the Code of Practice and help support staff in the understanding of supporting children’s individual needs with writing Individual Educational Plans.

 Admission arrangements for children with SEN

• Birch Farm’s policies are committed to the inclusion of all children.  For those with particular impairments, other professionals will be contacted as necessary.

 Resources for children with SEN

• if a child is identified as needing a lot of adult support to access the learning environment, the group would explore the possibility of employing an extra member of staff to support the child, or restructuring existing staff.

• Birch Farm has a range of resources to support children throughout the Early Years Foundation Stage.  We will aim to use these resources appropriately.  Birch Farm will research the possibility of purchasing/borrowing specialist equipment/toys in order to meet a child’s particular need

 Identification and assessment of children with SEN

• Having regard to the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs, our aim is to identify any difficulties being experienced by a child as early as possible, in order to support them with their learning. 

• When a child joins our group we observe and record their achievements, if during this period we have concerns regarding a child’s development we may carry out extra observations to give us a clear picture of these difficulties.  If a child joins the group with a recognised impairment we would carry out these observations and at the same time collect as much information regarding the child’s progress to date from the parents/carers, as they are willing to share.  We may also adapt the learning environment, the activities we present and our teaching style in order to help the individual access the curriculum

•  The staff discuss the progress of the children attending the group on a regular basis and if it is agreed that there is cause for concern regarding a child, the SENCO or Keyperson will approach the parents and discuss the concerns.  The parents/carers will then be involved in how the group supports the child with their individual need.  At this stage we would discuss whether the strategies we have in place are helping the child.  If we felt more was needed we would place a child on Early Years Action and prepare an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) for the child, setting small achievable targets and strategies to achieve them

• If when the IEP is reviewed with staff and parents/carers we feel the child has made little or no progress, we would ask the parents/carers permission to refer the child to the Advisory Teacher for Young Children with SEN.  After the Advisory Teacher has seen the child we will incorporate their advice into targets for a new IEP and place the child on Early Years Action Plus.  The child would continue to receive full support from the setting.

• It may be that after all the above stages the Advisory Teach recommends to the parents/carers that they try to obtain a Statement of Educational Need.  We would support the parents/carers and child in any way we could throughout this process.

• Any complaints regarding additional needs will be dealt with as per Birch Farm’s Complaint’s Policy

 The Early Years Curriculum and the child with SEN:

•  Our curriculum planning allows for children of all abilities and stages of learning.  Our long term planning outlines the resources we have available and this includes a variety of activities and experiences to stimulate development in all areas

• We aim to plan each activity with differentiated learning targets and we alter the way activities are presented and the role of the adult to support individual learning needs

• We use observation to aid us in planning how to differentiate the curriculum to meet the needs of any children with identified individual needs.  We also use the observation to monitor and evaluate our curriculum provision.  We would contact the Early Year Team for support

 Birch Farm are committed to supporting children’s individual needs, this will include:

•  provision of additional equipment eg, left handed scissors

• communicating with a child in different ways eg, sign language and pictorial symbols

• position of equipment and moving of furniture as required

The SENCO’S and management will monitor our policy at quarterly intervals throughout the year to ensure it’s effectiveness when working with staff, parents and children.

 Complaints about our SEN provision

• Any complaints regarding our additional needs will be dealt with as per Birch Farms Complaint’s Policy.

Staff training for SEN

• Our SENCO’S will attend specific SENCO training as advised by Suffolk County Council.  All staff will be encouraged to access training as needed to work with specific children

 Partnership with parents

• We aim to form positive relationships with parents/carers and families of all our children at Birch Farm

• Parents are encouraged to be involved in a variety of methods including parent’s evening

• For children with additional needs, the SENCO and Keyperson will organise a time for parents/carers to talk through the IEP

• The group will share with the parents/carers all the observations and records they have gathered on the child and note the parents/carers’ comments on the records.

• Parents and carers will be informed of any outside agencies involved with their child.

 Links with other Early Years settings

• Birch Farm endeavour to liaise with all other settings the child may be involved with wherever possible.  This includes a transition document being sent to every new setting.

 Links with support agencies and professionals

• Birch Farm have the support of the Early Education Support Team and ask advice whenever necessary o can be contacted at Suffolk County Council Area Education Office

• Parental permission will be sought before seeking advice

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SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN:

This policy applies to all staff, students and volunteers working or coming into contact with children at Birch Farm.  It complies with the Children Act 2004.

AIM: to provide a safe, stimulating, but relaxed environment in which children can learn and develop. Where they will feel secure and are encouraged to talk but also be listened to.

 Protection of the child at Birch Farm is our first priority.  We recognise that the welfare of all children is paramount and that all children, regardless of their ability or culture have equal rights of protection.

 LEGISLATION:

The Safeguarding Vulnerable Group Act 2006

Children’s Act 2004

Childcare Act 2006

 STAFF:

• Every effort will be made to ensure that only suitable persons will be employed to look after children.  In accordance with The Early Years Foundation Stage this is implemented by:-

• All staff and permanent volunteers will undertake a CRB check and the manager has completed a Health Declaration (Ofsted).  There will be no unsupervised access to children until this has been successfully completed.

• All students attending will also be required to show an up to date CRB. With the exception of school placements.

• Complying with the Independent Safeguarding Authority’s (ISA) vetting and barring scheme October 2009 (once confirmed by the new Coalition Government).

• From July 2010 new employees or those changing jobs to work in regulated activity may apply for ISA registration as well as a CRB check (police). For those who do not apply for an ISA registration from July must register before November 2010.

• Existing employees and Volunteers with or without a CRB check must apply for ISA registration from 2011, starting with staff whose CRB checks are the oldest.

• Those who are ISA registered will be continuously monitored and assessed with any new information. 

• All staff/volunteers must provide proof of identity in the form of passport/driving licence and evidence to support current address, or other evidence as per CRB instructions.

• All staff/volunteers must provide two referees – one professional and one personal (not a family member).  These will be contacted as soon as possible for confirmation of suitability of person to work with children.

• There will be a three month probationary period, which may be extended if felt necessary.

• All staff/volunteers have an ongoing responsibility to declare any offences which may affect their suitability to care for children or be left unsupervised with them, unless such disqualification has been waived by Ofsted. This is checked annually at staff appraisals.

• Ofsted would be notified if a member of staff, for any reason fail to continue to meet this criteria.

•  

• Birch Farm has 2 designated members of staff, who are responsible for monitoring and recording concerns, liaison with child protection agencies and making referrals to social services without delay.  They are Mini Shakespeare and Diane Sexton and their names are listed in all sections and on Reception.  As well as this all staff are:-

•  

• Made aware of the Safeguarding Children Policy through their staff induction process.  A senior member of staff will talk them through it to ensure that they understand it, before allowing them to sign to say they understand it. 

• Made aware of the booklet ‘What to do if you are worried about a child being abused’.  A copy of this booklet is available in each section and in Reception. 

• Aware of child protection issues and have regular training to ensure that this is kept up to date.  They are made aware of the procedures to follow should there be any cause for concern. 

• Made aware that if they have any cause for concern an accurate note must be made of the incident, the date and time, and signed by all relevant parties involved.  This must be safely kept in a locked file for evidence if needed at a later date. 

• To act as “whistle blowers” should they feel a member of staff is not fulfilling their duty to safeguard the children in their care. Concerns should be reported to a designated person or in exceptional cases to OFSTED. Staff acting as a “whistle blower” will not face any disciplinary action themselves providing they were acting in good faith.

• Made aware that they must work together with other agencies to ensure the risk of harm to the child’s welfare is minimised.  Any relevant information they have is to be shared with those agencies.

• But it is important that we understand that if we feel it necessary to make a referral we can do this if we feel that the officers do not deal with our concerns.

 What happens if a staff member is accused of abuse:

Should a member of staff be accused of abuse they will:

• Be suspended immediately and a full investigation will be undertaken by the management

• Depending on the outcome of this investigation the member of staff concerned may be dismissed and police charges would be filed against them. If we feel that we need advise on any concern or how we should be dealing with a situation then we can call the Local authority designated officer Tina Wilson on: 01473 581871

• If the investigation indicates that the individual has engaged in an activity which poses a threat to the safeguarding of children, a referral form will be filled out along with information and/or evidence and will be sent to the Independent Safeguarding Authority for further investigation.

• Ofsted would be notified immediately should this occur.

• For protection of staff and children even if it is within ratio to have one member of staff, there will always be a minimum of two staff working together, even if children need to move rooms to allow this to happen.

• Birch Farm has an effective co-key person system so that two members of staff are jointly responsible for each child, which should help cover any abuse not detected by the first member of staff.  This should also help protect staff from allegations.

 Birch Farm is committed to working in partnership with parents. This includes capturing and sharing their child’s experiences. Through photographs as well as observations for the child’s learning journey. All staff will:-

• Ensure parents have read and understood the terms and conditions upon admission, as photographs may also be used for the Birch Farm website, information packs and any information boards.

• Ensure photographs are taken with the nursery cameras only. Any other cameras seen including camera phones may result in a staff spot check and/or disciplinary action

• Ensure photographs of the children are uploaded on to the secure nursery computer.

• The nursery cameras are not taken off site.

• Ensure all learning journeys are updated on a regular basis for parents to see their child’s progress and photographs.

• Staff/volunteers may be required to take part in a random staff spot check for cameras/camera phones or indecent photographs, if deemed necessary. Spot checks will include checking pockets, bags and any other belongings. Any cameras or camera phones found may be checked.

• Mobile phones should be locked away in working hours. They should only be seen if staff are on a break. Staff should report to Mini or Sarah if they wish to make a call or are expecting a call. The nursery number maybe given if needed.

 What to do if you are concerned about a child:

• All staff will observe and listen to the children and where there is cause for concern regarding a child’s safety all staff will follow the correct procedure. Information on safeguarding children is kept up to date by regularly checking the Suffolk Safeguarding Children Board website

www.suffolkscb.org

• Any concerns will be recorded, signed and dated.

• Nominated person will speak to Children Come First.

• If necessary refer to Children Come First and/or police.  This can be done by downloading a referral form from the Suffolk Safeguarding Children Board website.  Parents will be advised unless this might put the child at risk,

• Verbal referrals need to be followed up by written referral within 24 hours.

• All staff will provide any other information as required.

• Should this situation arise we would immediately inform Suffolk Safeguarding Children’s Board, Customer first: on 08456023023 and Ofsted on 08456014771 and any action necessary adhered to.

• A flowchart containing all of this information is displayed in all sections and on reception.

• All the above should be recorded signed and dated.

Children:

The child’s safety at Birch Farm is paramount.  To help ensure this:-

• A known person must always collect a child.  If circumstances prevent this from happening, a letter or telephone call to implement a password comes into effect.

• Estranged parents must notify the supervisor of their relevant section if a court order is in force regarding the care of a child and must provide a copy of the court order.  All information received will be treated in the strictest confidence.

• If a child is being collected by someone then a form would need to be filled in with details and password of the collector.

 At Birch Farm we have a duty of care for all children while they are in our charge, and we will do everything we can to provide a safe and caring environment.  All staff will abide by our code of conduct. Failure to follow this will result in disciplinary procedures and possibly dismissal.  All staff will:-

• Value and respect all children as individuals, planning to their strengths, interests and needs to help them to develop and grow.

• Make each child feel safe and secure by encouraging and praising them.  They will always make time to listen to each child.

• Will promote right and wrong.  Will not treat any child too harshly, physical and corporal punishment, or threat of them, are never used.

• Encourage children to be confident, independent and develop their self-esteem, as well as giving them a feeling of security.

• Any incident occurring will be recorded and reported to parent/carer at end of day.

• There is no punishment area, however a child may be removed from main body of group to calm down and, if possible, talk through the situation.  Staff/volunteers will not use physical intervention unless it is necessary to prevent injury to the child, other children, an adult or serious damage to property, in line with the Children’s Act 2004.

• Aggressive behaviour and discriminatory remarks will not be tolerated. 

• All staff/volunteers will model appropriate behaviour and language at all times.

• Ensure they are free from drugs and alcohol in working hours.

• Dress in appropriate and practical clothing. All staff are provided with polo a tunic which can be worn with a cardigan and black straight trousers, with flat heeled shoes.

• Birch Farm will endeavour to ensure that all staff have basic knowledge of the five main forms of child abuse and will be alert and vigilant to the signs of possible abuse.  Some signs of abuse may be:-

Neglect:

• Running away

• Constant hunger, loss of weight, stealing food from other children

• Poor personal hygiene

• Inappropriate dress for conditions

• Untreated medical conditions

• Complaining of being tired all the time

• Unable to make friends or engage in social activities

• Low self esteem

• Mentioning being left alone or unsupervised

 Physical abuse:

• unexplained bruising marks or injuries

• bruises which reflect hand marks or fingertips

• cigarette burns

• bite marks

• broken bones

• scalds

• running away

• fear of parents being approached for explanation

• aggressive behaviour or severe temper outbursts

• reluctance to get changed, wearing long sleeves in hot weather

• depression

• withdrawn behaviour

  Sexual abuse:

• Pain or itching in genital/anal area

• Bruising or bleeding in genital/anal area

• Sexually transmitted diseases

• Vaginal discharge or infection

• Stomach pains

• Fear of being left with a specific person or group of people

• Sexual knowledge beyond their age or developmental level

• Sexual drawings or language

• Self-harm or mutilation

• Not being allowed to have friends

• Having nightmares

• Sudden or unexplained changes in behaviour

• Failure to thrive or grow

• Sudden speech disorders

• Developmental delay, either in terms of physical or emotional progress

• Neurotic behaviour, eg.  hair twisting, rocking

• Being unable to play

• Fear of making mistakes

• Self harm

 Bullying

• be frightened or unwilling to attend the setting, feeling ill in the mornings.

• Become withdrawn, start stammering, lack confidence.

• Cry themselves to sleep, have nightmares.

• Refuse to talk about what’s wrong.

• Have unexplained bruises, cuts, scratches.

• Begin to bully other children, siblings.

• Become aggressive and unreasonable.

•  Care must be taken not to make false accusations.  Any child suffering abuse will show many of the signs, not just one or two.  Some signs may just be due to the child’s age or stage of development. Apart from certain signs of sexual abuse.

•  A statement of intent is displayed in each section and in Reception to let parents/carers know that we are here to listen to them and will support them, but if necessary we will inform the appropriate agencies if we are concerned about a child.

•  Staff are to challenge anyone entering the Birch Farm Complex to verify their reason for being on site.  Should they be unwilling to give a name or satisfactory reason for their presence, they are taken to the house to talk with Richard or Diana Bryce.  Should they still be unwilling to co-operate – DO NOT CHALLENGE FURTHER:  retreat back into the building, sound the alarm, lock all doors/windows and call for the police

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SEVERE WEATHER:

Aim: To ensure the safety of all users during severe weather.

• On the rare occasion that adverse weather conditions arise, Birch Farm management will make a decision by 7.15am based on the current weather condition and forecast for the day in our region.

• This decision will reflect the welfare of our staff and children for their journey to and from nursery.

• We will endeavour to notify Heart FM, Town 102 and BBC Radio Suffolk if we are closed.

• Due to acts of nature beyond Birch Farms control your child’s session will be lost and refunds and swops will not be given

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SETTLING IN POLICY:

Aim: To ensure that children and families starting at Birch Farm are helped to ease into the new routine in their lives, ensuring as little emotional discomfort as possible. 

Objectives: Using a variety of strategies children and families are gradually eased into the daily life at Birch Farm in a friendly caring way.

• Prior to starting at Birch Farm parents/ carers are encouraged to complete 'All about me' booklets these are designed to help the staff to have a comprehensive starting point from which to build on with each child and their family and support and acknowledge each child's individuality.

• Any child starting Birch Farm is offered two trial sessions prior to their first day.  These are usually in the week preceding their start date. At this point children and their families will be introduced to a member of the team who will be their keyperson. These sessions are designed to give the child a short experience of nursery life and enable them to get to know the staff briefly, before being left for a whole session.   It also allows parents/ carers the opportunity to discuss their child with staff and ease the concern parents may have about leaving their child for a whole session.  Parents / carers receive comprehensive ‘Welcome Packs’ for each section, to make sure they have a clear picture of how the section operates.  Parents/ carers are welcome to start their children on our 2 x 3hour short sessions and gradually build up to longer days.

• Children move from Catkins into Pippins at approximately 18 months.  We discuss this with the parents/ carers, but this is determined by the physical mobility and emotional development of the child.  They need to be walking confidently on their own before the transition can occur.  In the month leading up to their move to Pippins, children will attend a few short trial sessions initially accompanied by their keyperson or other familiar staff, gradually building up the time they spend at each trial .  If at this stage both staff and parents/carers are happy with the progress of their child, the transition will occur.  Parents/ carers will be issued with a welcome pack for Pippins so they may become familiar with the different set up of this section.

• Children move from Pippins into Acorns pre-school from 30 months.  Parents/ carers receive information about our pre-school the month before they are due to start.  Parents / carers are able to come along to the termly Open Week and  are welcome to meet with the Supervisor to discuss their child’s involvement in the pre-school.  The children have ‘taster’ sessions, firstly with their keyperson or other familiar staff member and then on their own.  Parents /carers are informed of these sessions. If at this stage both staff and parents/carers are happy with the progress of their child, the transition will occur.  Parents/ carers will be issued with a welcome pack for Acorns so they may become familiar with the different set up of this section. We offer a ‘parents evening’ once a term, so that parents may see and discuss their child’s progress.

• We endeavour to make any transition a child makes as easy and enjoyable as possible.  Children’s learning journey’s are transferred at each move along with a handover document, so that the next section has a picture of where the child is and the areas that may need further development.

• Every child and family that joins Birch Farm are unique and we aim to treat them accordingly, offering support and help whenever needed.  We offer an ‘open door’ policy where by parents may visit at any time to see their child and parents are at liberty to view their progress folders at any time.  We listen and act, when necessary, to any comments or concerns raised by parents and operate a parents comments form system should you wish to make written comments either named or anonymously. We are happy to work with parents where appropriate to resolve any concern they have with regard to ensuring the happiness of their child at nursery.

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SOCIAL NETWORK POLICY

 AIM: To protect the personal information relating to all staff, Parents and Children attending Birch Farm

 OBJECTIVE: To enforce the Data Protection Act

• All personal data relating to staff, Parents or Children must remain within the confines of Birch Farm

• Matters relating to the day to day running of Birch Farm or personal details must not be discussed with anyone outside the Business or on any Social Network site. These include Face Book, My Space, Twitter and Bebo.

• Staff must not interact with any parents on Social Network Sites and delete any existing parental contacts.

• Any member of Staff found to be ignoring these guidelines will face immediate disciplinary action.

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SWINE FLU POLICY

Aim: To ensure that any incidents of swine flu are managed for the safety of all site users.

Objective: To ensure staff and parents understand how to manage swine flu should a child contract it. The help reduce further incidents of cases within the nursery where possible. To do this the nursery will undertake the following:

Ensure all children are monitored for signs of swine flu - 

The typical symptoms are:

sudden fever (a high body temperature of 38C/100.4F or above), and

sudden cough.

Other symptoms may include:

1. headache,

2. tiredness,

3. chills,

4. aching muscles,

5. limb or joint pain,

6. diarrhoea or stomach upset,

7. sore throat,

8. runny nose,

9. sneezing, and

10. loss of appetite.

• Parents / carers will be regularly updated of swine flu advice or any cases through the email warning system.

• Take extra care when cleaning by undertaking the following:

• Spray all boxes of toys every night with Klenzite Anti Bac Spray

• Wipe all door handles, toilet doors, sinks, work surfaces, tables and chairs weekly.

• Ensure children are catching, coughs and sneezes in tissues.

• Put used tissues in nappy bins and wipe hands with anti bacterial spray every time.

• If any child is diagnosed with Swine Flu ensure a full clean down including walls is undertaken immediately.

• Any child who staff suspect to have swine flu symptoms, parents will be contacted immediately and children will not be allowed to return until doctors have been contacted.

• Any child diagnosed with swine flu will be excluded for 7 days from the first symptoms.

• The nursery will not be closed if a child is diagnosed with swine flu in line with Suffolk County Council guidelines. 

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TRANSISITION POLICY

Aim: to help make the necessary transitions between rooms and settings as easy and stress free as possible for the child and parents/ carers and to ensure that each child is made to feel welcome and wanted, therefore encouraging them to feel settled and happy. We will do this by:

When joining the setting:

• Arranging visits for the child and parents/carers to see the site and meet the staff they will get to know.

• Giving welcome packs for them to take home and read to help them make their decision.

• Being welcoming, friendly and approachable.

• Having names on pegs, trays etc. before starting.

• Assigning a key person before the child starts who arranges trial sessions to take place either with or without parent / carers, to ease the child in gently and to meet the key person and begin to develop their relationship prior to starting.

• Children if old enough are given the opportunity to talk to the key person and ask questions as they require.

• A child’s key person can be changed if the child is not settling with the chosen person and the child has made a bond with another member of the nursery team.

• We will collect all information about a child that will be needed to ensure that all their needs are met including allergies, preferences, culture and religion. Family details, any additional needs / requirements, other languages. Parents / carers will be informed that all information will be treated confidentially.

• Encourage the parents/ carers to bring a photo book of special people/ things, which the children can access any time, in addition to comforters, which may be accessed as needed.

• As far as possible follow the baby / child’s home routine.

• Always welcome the parent/ carer at the beginning and end of each session. Pippins and Catkins have daily diaries for the parents / carers to use as an additional way to send and receive information.

• Respect the wishes of parents/ carers.

• Key persons will observe a child and keep up to date records so they are able to plan accurately for the child’s interests and needs.

• Records are available for parents and carers to see at all times.

• Where possible we will contact other settings attended or presently attending to liase regarding developmental progress and interests.

 When moving rooms in the setting:

• The key person takes children for informal visits to the next room and stays with them, so they can become familiar with the room, new staff and children.

• Having crossover outdoor play sessions so that younger children are used to seeing the other staff and being near to bigger/ older children.

• Assigning the child and families new key person in advance allowing them time to approach the family and introduce themselves.

• Parents / carers receive an information pack on the next room and information on the trials and an introduction to the staff.

• New key persons will telephone the parents / carers to offer a tour of the next room their child will move to.

• On the day of a trial the child’s new key person will visit them in their existing room getting to know them. When the child is ready the new key person encourages the child to play in the new room introducing them to staff and other children.

• Trials are flexible and are depended on the individual child with regard to length and frequency.

• The key person will hand over detailed profile to the new key person and prior to trials they will write a detailed hand over sheet containing details of the child’s interests/ likes and dislikes/ needs and abilities to help the child settle into their new environment.

• Children move to the next room with another child where possible.

• Parents are reassured that their child will only move to the next room when they are emotionally and physically ready to do so not when they reach a certain age and parents are involved in discussions with regard to this.

 When moving items in the playroom:

• Children are encouraged to participate with any changes to the role play areas as part of the daily routines within the room. These changes are discussed with older children before they are undertaken.

• If a room is moved around for any reason children are introduced slowly. Where possible staff discuss the changes. Each child’s keyperson will show the child around the new room layout and support children to adapt to the changes.

 When moving to a new setting / school:

• The key person talking to the child about the move to make it familiar to them and less scary.

• Being available to talk to parents / carers and their child about any worries they may have.

• Collecting photos of the new school, including uniform, that the environment will be familiar to the child.

• Trying to arrange visits by the child’s new teacher to visit the nursery.

• Doing all we can to connect with the many school we feed into.

• Send a written report to the new setting, detailing children’s present stage of development.

• Encourage parents / carers to give the new setting access tot he child’s profile.

•   We will work with each family as an individual through the transition process and will do all we can to support all persons involved. Making settling into their new room or setting an easy and stress free as possible.

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Uniform Policy For Parents Working In High Risk Employment

Aim:

To ensure the safety of the children in our care and to reduce the risk of cross contamination that may lead to the spread of infection from customers entering and leaving the premises.

Areas Of High Risk Employment:

• Doctors/ Nurses/ Dentists/ People working in a hospital environment

• Vets/ Animal service e.g. dogs kennel, horse stables

• Elderly Persons centre

• Environments working with chemicals

• Food preparation

• Plus any potentially high risk employment

 Objectives:

•  Ensure parents/ Carers do not enter the nursery premise in their work uniform on arrival at Birch Farm

• To ensure they comply with regulations set by many employers with regard to their uniform policy

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Send mail to mini@birchfarm.co.uk with questions or comments about this web site.

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All content © Birch Farm unless otherwise stated.

This Site has been designed by Mr.D. Shakespeare shaky2uk@yahoo.co.uk

Last modified: Wednesday, 25. January 2012