• St Andrew’s Pre-school aims to be genuinely accessible to children and families from all sections of the community.
• We will ensure that the existence of our Pre-school is known in the area, and place advertising notices in prominent places.
• We have a termly intake of children in September, January and April, subject to availability.
• We accept children from the age of 2 years and 6 months as at 31 August (for our Autumn intake), as at 31 December (for our Spring intake) and as at 31 March (for our Summer intake), subject to the availability of spaces.
• Children can attend morning only sessions or all day sessions. We do not offer afternoon only sessions.
• Children are required to attend a minimum of 3 sessions per week. Please note that attending 1 morning equals 1 session. Attending all day equates to 2 sessions.
• Children are required to attend a minimum of 3 terms.
• A maximum of 30 children can attend a morning session and a maximum of 24 children can attend an afternoon session.
• Parents may register children, of any age, by completing a registration form and returning it to Pre-school (register on-line via our website). A small non-refundable deposit is required upon registration to cover administration costs.
• Children will be added to our waiting list from the date that we receive the completed registration form and payment of our non-refundable registration fee.
• Please note that completion of our registration form and payment of our registration fee does not automatically guarantee a place at Pre-school.
• Please refer to our website for full details about funding and our fees.
• The Pre-school Sub Committee comprising Manager, Deputy Manager and Pre-school Administrator have full responsibility for allocating places.
• The offer process commences in the Spring Term and in the following order:-

1. 1. Current families staying on for another Academic year.
   2. Special educational, social or family needs.
   3. Siblings of children who have or are still attending our Pre-school.
   4. New families based on the date of registration, including payment of registration fee.

• Parents will be notified, by e-mail, if a place becomes available for their child.
• Offers to new families will usually commence prior to the Easter holidays.
• Once offered a place, families will be required to complete our Pre-school Agreement and pay a Holding Fee of £150.00 in order to secure their child’s space.  The holding fee is fully refundable and families will be reimbursed at the end of their child’s time with us and once all invoices have been paid in full. Further details are provided within our Pre-school Agreement.
• If a family wishes to change their child’s sessions, either prior to starting or during the Academic Year, the request must be e-mailed to the Pre-school Administrator, to discuss with the Manager and/or Deputy Manager.
• For requests to increase sessions, we will try our best to accommodate your request and commence the new arrangement as soon as there is session availability.
• For requests to decrease sessions or to permanently remove your child from Pre-school, not less than 12 weeks written notice to the Manager is required. Failure to do so will result in being charged the fees that would have been payable for the 12 week period in respect of which notice was not adequately provided (regardless of whether or not Pre-school is subsequently able to fill that space).
• We review our fee structure on an annual basis, on or around 1 April.

Version 5.0 (updated July 2019)

We believe that children and adults flourish best in an ordered environment, in which everyone knows what is expected of them. Children need to develop their play and learning without fear of being hurt or hindered by anyone else. We aim for a situation in which children can develop self-discipline and self-esteem, in an atmosphere of mutual respect and encouragement.

To help children know what is expected of them and to encourage appropriate behaviour, we:

• have simple guidelines governing the conduct of the group and the behaviour of the children; these are explained to children and adults, as required.
• ensure that the guidelines are applied consistently, so that children have the security of knowing what to expect and can build up useful habits of behaviour.
• expect our staff to provide a model for the children with regard to friendliness, care and courtesy.
• will praise and endorse desirable behaviour such as kindness and willingness to share.
• will take positive steps to avoid a situation in which children receive adult attention only in return for undesirable behaviour.
• we follow a ‘5 step Conflict Resolution’ procedure to support our children. All staff are familiar with the process and the 5 steps are displayed around the room so that all adults are able to give a consistent approach to the children. Staff will model empathy and being sorry to increase our children’s understanding of the feelings of others.

The 5 steps are as follows:
1. STOP.
2. Listen to each other.
3. Think about solutions (Step one – suggest two solutions, ‘What do you think is best’).
4. Do what you have agreed.
5. Tell an adult if it worked.

When children behave in unacceptable ways:

• physical punishment, such as smacking or shaking will not be threatened or used.
• children will never be sent out of the room on their own.
• techniques intended to single out and humiliate individual children such as the “naughty
  chair” will not be used.
• children who misbehave will be given one-to-one support, from a member of staff, in seeing
  what was wrong and working towards a better pattern. Where appropriate, this might be
  achieved by a period of “time out” with a member of staff.
• we follow the 5 steps above.

In cases of serious misbehaviour, such as racial or other abuse, the unacceptability of the behaviour and attitudes will be made clear immediately, but by means of explanations rather than personal blame. In any case of misbehaviour, it will always be made clear to the child or children in question that it is the behaviour and not the child that is unwelcome.

Adults will not shout or raise their voices in a threatening way. Staff will make themselves aware of, and respect, a range of cultural expectations regarding interactions between people.

Any behaviour problems will be handled in a developmentally appropriate fashion, respecting individual children’s levels of understanding and maturity. Recurring problems will be tackled by the whole Pre-school, in partnership with the child’s parents/carers; using objective observation records to establish an understanding of the cause. Staff will be aware that some
kinds of behaviour may arise from a child’s special needs.

Version 2.0 (reviewed January 2019)

Safeguarding and Welfare Requirement: Safety and Suitability of Premises, Environment and Equipment

Providers must follow their legal responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010.

Policy Statement

We actively promote inclusion, equality of opportunity, the valuing of diversity and British values. Under the Equality Act 2010, which underpins standards of behaviour and incorporates both British and universal values, we have a legal obligation not to directly or indirectly discriminate against, harass or victimise those with protected characteristics*.

*Protected characteristics are defined as age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership (in employment only), pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.

We make reasonable adjustments to procedures, criteria and practices to ensure that those with protected characteristics are not at a substantial disadvantage. As we are in receipt of public funding we also have a public sector equality duty to eliminate unlawful discrimination, advance equality of opportunity, foster good relations and publish information to show compliance with the duty.

Social and emotional development is shaped by early experiences and relationships and incorporates elements of equality and British and universal values.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) supports children’s earliest skills so that they can become social citizens in an age-appropriate way, that is, so that they are able to listen and attend to instructions; know the difference between right and wrong; recognise similarities and differences between themselves and others; make and maintain friendships; develop empathy and consideration of other people; take turns in play and conversation; avoid risk and take notice of rules and boundaries; learn not to hurt/upset other people with words and actions; understand the consequences of hurtful/discriminatory behaviour.

Procedures

British Values

The fundamental British values of democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance for those with different faiths and beliefs are already implicitly embedded in the 2014 EYFS and are further clarified below, based on the Fundamental British Values in the Early Years guidance (Foundation Years 2015):

• Democracy, or making decisions together (through the prime area of Personal, Social and Emotional Development)
  • As part of the focus on self-confidence and self-awareness, practitioners encourage children to see their role in the bigger picture, encouraging them to know that their views count, to value each other’s views and values, and talk about their feelings, for example, recognising when they do or do not need help.
  • Practitioners support the decisions that children make and provide activities that involve turn-taking, sharing and collaboration. Children are given opportunities to develop enquiring minds in an atmosphere where questions are valued.
• Rule of law, or understanding that rules matter (through the prime area of Personal, Social and Emotional Development)
  • Practitioners ensure that children understand their own and others’ behaviour and its consequence.
  • Practitioners collaborate with children to create rules and the codes of behaviour, for example, the rules about tidying up, and ensure that all children understand rules apply to everyone.
• Individual liberty, or freedom for all (through the prime areas of Personal, Social and Emotional Development, and Understanding the World)
  • Children should develop a positive sense of themselves. Staff provide opportunities for children to develop their self-knowledge, self-esteem and increase their confidence in their own abilities, for example through allowing children to take risks on an obstacle course, mixing colours, talking about their experiences and learning.
  • Practitioners encourage a range of experiences that allow children to explore the language of feelings and responsibility, reflect on their differences and understand we are free to have different opinions, for example discussing in a small group what they feel about transferring into Reception Class.
• Mutual respect and tolerance, or treating others as you want to be treated (through the prime areas of Personal, Social and Emotional Development, and Understanding the World)
  • Practitioners create an ethos of inclusivity and tolerance where views, faiths, cultures and races are valued and children are engaged with the wider community.
  • Children should acquire tolerance, appreciation and respect for their own and other cultures; know about similarities and differences between themselves and others, and among families, faiths, communities, cultures and traditions.
  • Practitioners encourage and explain the importance of tolerant behaviours, such as sharing and respecting other’s opinions.
  • Practitioners promote diverse attitudes and challenge stereotypes, for example, sharing stories that reflect and value the diversity of children’s experiences and providing resources and activities that challenge gender, cultural or racial stereotyping.
• At St Andrew’s Pre-school it is not acceptable to:
  • actively promote intolerance of other faiths, cultures and races.
  • fail to challenge gender stereotypes and routinely segregate girls and boys.
  • isolate children from their wider community.
  • fail to challenge behaviours (whether of staff, children or parents) that are not in line with the fundamental British values of democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect and tolerance for those with different faiths and beliefs.

 Prevent Strategy

Under the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015 we also have a duty “to have due regard to the need to prevent people from being drawn into terrorism” .

Legal framework

Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015

Version 1.0 (reviewed January 2019)

Safeguarding and Welfare Requirement: Information and Records

Providers must maintain records and obtain and share information to ensure the safe and efficient management of St Andrew’s Pre-school, and to help ensure the needs of all children are met.

Policy Statement

We have record keeping systems in place that meet legal requirements; the means we use to store and share that information takes place within the framework of the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) (2018) and the Human Rights Act (1998). This policy and procedure should be read alongside our Privacy Notice, Confidentiality and Client Access to Records Policy and our Information Sharing Policy.

Procedures

If a child attends another setting, we establish a two-way flow of appropriate information with parents and other providers. Where appropriate, we will incorporate comments from other providers, as well as parents and/or carers into the child’s records. We keep two kinds of records on children attending our setting:

Developmental records

• These include observations of children in the setting, photographs, video clips and samples of their work and summary developmental reports.
• These are kept on Tapestry (on-line learning journal) and can be accessed, and contributed to, by our staff, the child and the child’s parents.

Personal records

These may include the following (as applicable):
• Personal details – including the child’s registration form and any consent forms.
• Contractual matters – including a copy of the signed Pre-school Agreement, the child’s days and times of attendance, a record of the child’s fees, any fee reminders or records of disputes about fees.
• Early Support – including any additional focussed intervention provided by our setting (e.g. support for behaviour, language or development that needs an SEN action plan) and records of any meetings held.
• Welfare and child protection concerns – including records of all welfare and protection concerns, and our resulting action, meetings and telephone conversations about the child, an Education, Health and Care Plan and any information regarding a Looked After Child.
• Correspondence and Reports – including a copy of the child’s 2 Year Old Progress Check, all letters and emails to and from other agencies and any confidential reports from other agencies.
• These confidential records are stored in a lockable cabinet, which is always locked when not in use and which our Manager keeps secure in an office.
• We read any correspondence in relation to a child, note any actions and file it immediately.
• We ensure that access to children’s files is restricted to those authorised to see them and make entries in them, this being our Manager, Deputy or designated person for child protection, the child’s key person, or other staff as authorised by our Manager.
• We may be required to hand children’s personal files to Ofsted as part of an inspection or investigation process; or to local authority staff, as long as authorisation is seen. We ensure that children’s personal files are not handed over to anyone else to look at.
• Parents have access, in accordance with our Privacy Notice, Confidentiality and Client Access to Records Policy, to the files and records of their own children, but do not have access to information about any other child.
• Our staff will not discuss personal information given by parents with other members of staff, except where it affects planning for the child’s needs. Our staff induction programme includes an awareness of the importance of confidentiality in the role of the key person.
• We retain children’s records for three years after they have left the setting; except records that relate to an accident or child protection matter, which are kept until a child reaches the age of 21 years or 24 years respectively. These are kept in a secure place.

Archiving children’s files

• When a child leaves our setting, we remove all paper documents from the child’s personal file and place them in a robust envelope, with the child’s name and date of birth on the front and the date they left. We seal this and place it in an archive box, stored in a safe place (i.e. a locked cabinet) for three years. After three years it is destroyed.
• If data is kept electronically it is encrypted and stored as above.
• Where there were s.47 child protection investigations, we mark the envelope with a star and archive it for 25 years.
• We store financial information according to our finance procedures.

Other records

• We keep a daily record of the names of the children we are caring for, their hours of attendance and the names of their key person.
• Students on Pre-school Learning Alliance or other recognised qualifications and training, when they are observing in the setting, are advised of our Confidentiality and Client Access to Records Policy and are required to respect it.

Legal framework

• General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) (2018)
• Human Rights Act (1998)

Version 1.0 (reviewed January 2019)

As members of the Pre-School Learning Alliance (PLA) we aim to provide the highest quality education and care for all our children. We aim to welcome each individual child and family; providing a warm and caring environment within which all children can learn and develop as they play.

• We believe that children and parents are entitled to expect courtesy, and prompt, careful attention to their needs and wishes. Our intention is to work in partnership with parents and the general community. We welcome suggestions on how to improve.

• A parent/carer who is uneasy about any aspect of the group’s provision should initially discuss any worries and anxieties with the Manager.

• If there is no satisfactory outcome within a few weeks, or if the problem recurs, the parent/carer should put their concerns in writing; requesting a meeting with the Manager, and the Chair of the Management Committee. Both parents/carers and the Manager may have a second person present at the meeting, if required. A written record of this meeting must be made. Most complaints should be resolved informally at this stage.

• If the matter is still not settled to the parents/carers satisfaction, the parent should contact the Chair again and if necessary Ofsted would be contacted. The address for Ofsted is on the main notice board and in the Ofsted complaints file, both in the front hall.

• We believe that most complaints are made constructively and can be sorted out at an early stage. We also believe that it is in the best interests of the children, the parents/carers and the Pre-school that complaints should be taken seriously and dealt with fairly and confidentially.

Version 1.0 (reviewed January 2019)

Safeguarding and Welfare Requirement: Information and Records

Confidential information and records about staff and children must be held securely and only accessible and available to those who have a right or professional need to see them.

Policy Statement

‘Share with informed consent where appropriate and, where possible, respect the wishes of those who do not consent to share confidential information. You may still share information without consent if, in your judgement, there is good reason to do so, such as where safety may be at risk. You will need to base your judgement on the facts of the case.’

Information sharing: Advice for practitioners providing safeguarding services to children, young people, parents and carers (HMG 2015)

At St Andrew’s Pre-school, staff and Managers can be said to have a ‘confidential relationship’ with families. It is our intention to respect the privacy of children and their parents and carers, while ensuring that they access high quality early years care and education in our setting. We aim to ensure that all parents and carers can share their information in the confidence that it will only be used to enhance the welfare of their children. We have record keeping systems in place that meet legal requirements; the means that we use to store and share that information takes place within the framework of the General Data Protection Regulations (2018) and the Human Rights Act (1998).

 Confidentiality procedures

• Most things that happen between the family, the child and St Andrew’s

Pre-school are confidential to our setting. In exceptional circumstances information is shared, for example with other professionals or possibly social care or the police.

• Information shared with other agencies is done in line with our Information Sharing Policy.
• We always check whether parents regard the information they share with us to be confidential or not.
• Some parents may share information about themselves with other parents as well as with our staff; we cannot be held responsible if information is shared by those parents whom the person has ‘confided’ in.
• Information shared between parents in a discussion or training group is usually bound by a shared agreement that the information is confidential to the group and not discussed outside of it. We are not responsible should that confidentiality be breached by participants.
• We inform parents when we need to record confidential information beyond the general personal information we keep (see our Children’s Records Policy and Privacy Notice) – for example with regard to any injuries, concerns or changes in relation to the child or the family, any discussions with parents on sensitive matters, any records we are obliged to keep regarding action taken in respect of child protection and any contact and correspondence with external agencies in relation to their child.
• We keep all records securely (see our Children’s Records Policy and Privacy Notice).
• Information is kept in a manual file, or electronically. Our staff may also use a computer to type reports, or letters. Where this is the case, the typed document is deleted from the PC and only the hard copy kept.
• Where it is helpful to keep an electronic copy, it will be stored securely on Office 365.
• Our staff discuss children’s general progress and wellbeing together in meetings, but more sensitive information is restricted to our Manager and the child’s key person, and is shared with other staff on a need to know basis.
• We do not discuss children with staff who are not involved in the child’s care, nor with other parents or anyone else outside of the setting.
• Our discussions with other professionals take place within a professional framework and not on an informal or ad-hoc basis.
• Where third parties share information about an individual, our Manager will check if it is confidential, both in terms of the party sharing the information and of the person whom the information concerns.

Client access to records procedures

Parents may request access to any confidential records we hold on their child and family following the procedure below:

• The parent is the ‘subject’ of the file in the case where a child is too young to give ‘informed consent’ and has a right to see information that St Andrew’s

Pre-school has compiled on them.

• Any request to see the child’s personal file by a parent or person with parental responsibility must be made in writing to the Manager.
• We acknowledge the request in writing, informing the parent that an arrangement will be made for him/her to see the file contents, subject to third party consent.
• Our written acknowledgement allows one month for the file to be made ready and available. We will be able to extend this by a further two months where requests are complex or numerous. If this is the case, we will inform you within one month of the receipt of the request and explain why the extension is necessary.
• A fee may be charged for repeated requests, or where a request requires excessive administration to fulfil.
• Our Manager informs the Chair of Committee and legal advice may be sought before sharing a file.
• Our Manager goes through the file with the Chair of Committee and ensures that all documents have been filed correctly, that entries are in date order and that there are no missing pages. They note any information, entry or correspondence or other document which mentions a third party.
• We write to each of those individuals explaining that the subject has requested sight of the file, which contains a reference to them, stating what this is.
• They are asked to reply in writing to our Manager giving or refusing consent for disclosure of that material.
• We keep copies of these letters and their replies on the child’s file.
• ‘Third parties’ include each family member noted on the file; so where there are separate entries pertaining to each parent, step parent, grandparent etc. We write to each of them to request third party consent.
• Third parties also include workers from any other agency, including children’s social care and the health authority for example. Agencies will normally refuse consent to share information, preferring instead for the parent to be redirected to those agencies for a request to see their file held by that agency.
• Members of our staff should also be written to, but we reserve the right under the legislation to override a refusal for consent or to just delete the name of the staff member and not the information. We may grant refusal if the member of staff has provided information that could be considered ‘sensitive’ and the staff member may be in danger if that information is disclosed; or if that information is the basis of a police investigation. However, if the information is not sensitive, then it is not in our interest to withhold that information from a parent. In each case this should be discussed with members of staff and decisions recorded.
• When we have received all the consents/refusals, our Manager takes a photocopy of the complete file. On the copy of the file, our Manager removes any information that a third party has refused consent for us to disclose and blank out any references to the third party, and any information they have added to the file, using a thick marker pen.
• The copy file is then checked by the Manager and legal advisors to verify that the file has been prepared appropriately.
• What remains is the information recorded by St Andrew’s Pre-school detailing the work initiated and followed by them in relation to confidential matters. This is called the ‘clean copy’.
• We photocopy the ‘clean copy’ again and collate it for the parent to see.
• Our Manager informs the parent that the file is now ready and invites them to make an appointment to view it.
• Our Manager and the Chair of Committee meet with the parent to go through the file, explaining the process as well as what the content of the file records about the child and the work that has been done. Only the person(s) with parental responsibility can attend that meeting, or the parent’s legal representative or interpreter.
• The parent may take a copy of the prepared file away; but, to ensure it is properly explained to and understood by the parent, we never hand it over without discussion.
• It is an offence to remove material that is controversial or to rewrite records to make them more acceptable. Our recording procedures and guidelines ensure that the material reflects an accurate and non-judgemental account of the work we have done with the family.
• If a parent feels aggrieved about any entry in the file, or the resulting outcome, then we refer the parent to our complaints procedure.
• The law requires that the information we hold must be held for a legitimate reason and must be accurate (see our Privacy Notice). If a parent says that the information we hold is inaccurate, then the parent has a right to request for it to be changed. However, this only pertains to factual inaccuracies. Where the disputed entry is a matter of opinion, professional judgement, or represents a different view of the matter than that held by the parent, we retain the right not to change that entry, but we can record the parent’s view of the matter. In most cases, we would have given a parent the opportunity at the time to state their side of the matter, and it would have been recorded there and then.
• If there are any controversial aspects of the content of a child’s file, we must seek legal advice. This might be where there is a court case between parents, where social care or the police may be considering legal action, or where a case has already completed and an appeal process is underway.
• We never ‘under-record’ for fear of the parent seeing, nor do we make ‘personal notes’ elsewhere.

Telephone advice regarding general queries may be made to The Information Commissioner’s Office Helpline 0303 123 1113.

All the undertakings above are subject to the paramount commitment of St Andrew’s Pre-school, which is to the safety and well-being of the child. Please see also our policy on Safeguarding Children and Child Protection.

 Legal framework

• General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) (2018)
• Human Rights Act (1998)

Version 2.0 (reviewed January 2019)

Introduction

This policy applies to all employees, Parents and Children.

Purpose of policy

• To protect all employees, children and parents from coming into contact with Coronavirus (COVID-19).
• To maintain the minimum level of staff to continue to provide the welfare needs of the children in our care.
• To help to prevent the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Monitoring

The Pre-school is closely monitoring and gathering information from GOV.UK, The DfE, The Department of Health and Early Year Alliance regarding the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) and the management team meet regularly and then feedback to employees.

Hygiene – General

Staff, children and parents are advised to practice the highest standards of hygiene and cleanliness.

• Regularly wash hands with hand wash and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
• Regularly use hand sanitiser.
• Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with either a bent elbow or tissue and always wash hands afterwards.
• Avoid close contact with others and maintain a social distance of 2 metres wherever possible.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Wash all clothing after each session with the children.

Hygiene – Premises

To help ensure the Coronavirus does not spread internally through the Pre-school, the following actions are being taken:

• Frequently touched areas are appropriately cleaned several times a day.
• These include tables, chairs, laptops, door handles, switches and telephones.
• Hand sanitiser is being used frequently within the Pre-school.

If an employee experiences any of the following symptoms they will inform their manager immediately, self-isolate and contact 111 for advice.

Symptoms include:

• a high temperature.
• a new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot, for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours.
• a loss or change to sense of smell or taste – this means they cannot smell or taste anything, or things smell or taste different to normal.

STATEMENT OF INTENT

Our Pre-school is committed to providing equality of opportunity and anti-discriminatory practise for all children and families.

AIM

We aim to:

• provide a secure environment in which all our children can flourish and in which all contributions are valued.

• include and value the contribution of all families to our understanding of equality and diversity.

• provide positive non-stereotyping information about different ethnic groups and people with disabilities.

• improve our knowledge and understanding of issues of equality and diversity.

• make inclusion an intrinsic part of life at St Andrew’s Pre-school.

The legal framework for this policy is:

• Race Relations Act 1976
• Race Relations Amendment Act 2000
• Sex Discrimination Act 1975; 1986
• Children Act 1989
• Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001
• Equal Pay Act 1970; 1984
• Education Act 1981; 1993
• Education Reform Act 1988
• Disability Discrimination Act 1995
• Equality Act 2010

METHODS

Admissions

St Andrew’s Pre-school is open to all members of the community:

• We advertise our service through our local Children’s Centres, the FIS, on the RBC website link – local offer, local advertising and through referrals from Health Visitors and other Health Professionals.

• We provide information in clear, understandable language, whether in spoken or written form.

• We will provide information in other languages as required. We will use an interpreter, or have our information translated into the appropriate language.

• We base our admissions policy on a fair system.

• We do not discriminate against a child with a disability, or refuse a child entry to our Pre-school because of any disability.

• We ensure all parents are made aware of all our policies.

• We will develop individual action plans to ensure that people with special educational needs are able to participate successfully in all Pre-school activities and in the curriculum offered.

Employment

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

• The applicant who best meets the criteria will be offered the post, subject to references and checks by the Disclosure and Barring Service. This ensures fairness in the selection process. All job descriptions include a commitment to equality and diversity as part of their specifications.

• We monitor our application process to ensure that it is fair and accessible.

Training

• We seek out training opportunities for staff and volunteers to enable them to develop practices which enable all children to flourish.

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

Curriculum

The curriculum offered at St Andrew’s encourages children to develop positive attitudes to people who are different from themselves. It encourages children to empathise with others and to begin to develop the skills of playing and exploring, active learning and creativity and critical thinking.

We do this by:

• Making children feel valued and good about themselves.

• Ensuring that children have equality of access to learning.

• Reflecting the widest possible range of communities in the choice of resources.

• Avoiding stereotypes or derogatory images in the selection of materials.

• Celebrating a wide range of festivals.

• Creating an environment of mutual respect and tolerance.

• Helping children to understand that discriminatory behaviour and remarks are unacceptable (See Behaviour Management Policy).

• Ensuring that the curriculum offered is inclusive of children with special educational needs and children with disabilities.

• Ensuring that children whose first language is not English have full access to the curriculum and are supported in their learning.

Valuing Diversity in Families

• We welcome the diversity of family life and work with all families.

• We encourage children to contribute stories of their everyday life while at Pre-school.

• We encourage parents/carers to take part in the life of St Andrew’s Pre-school and to contribute fully.

• For families who have a first language other than English, we value the contribution their culture and language offer. At St Andrew’s Pre-school, we celebrate our different cultures by using a country relevant to our group as our topic from time to time

• We offer a flexible payment system for families of differing means.

Food

• Work in partnership with parents to ensure that the medical, cultural and dietary needs of children are met.

• We help children to learn about a range of food, cultural approaches to meal times and eating and to respect the differences among them.

Meetings

• Meetings are arranged to ensure that all families who wish to, may be involved in the running of the group.

• Information about meetings is communicated in a variety of ways – written, verbal, email and in translation – to ensure that all parents have information about access to the meetings.

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

Normal procedure would apply (see Complaints Policy and Procedure).

Version 1.0 (reviewed January 2019)

Safeguarding and Welfare Requirement: Staff Qualifications, Training and Skills

At least one person who has a current paediatric first aid certificate must be on the premises and available at all times when children are present, and must accompany children on outings.

Health

Providers must ensure there is a first aid box accessible at all times with appropriate content for use with children. Providers must keep a written record of accidents or injuries and first aid treatment.

Policy Statement

We are able to take action to apply first aid treatment in the event of an accident involving a child or adult. At least one adult with a current first aid certificate is on the premises, or on an outing, at any one time.

Newly qualified staff who achieved an early years qualification at level 2 or 3 on or after 30 June 2016 also have a paediatric first aid certificate in order to be counted in the adult:child ratios.

The first aid qualification includes first aid training for infants and young children. We have evidence of due diligence when choosing first aid training and ensure that it is relevant to adults caring for young children.

Procedures

The First Aid Kit

Our first aid kit is accessible at all times and contains the following items:-

• Triangular bandages (ideally at least one should be sterile) x 4.
• Sterile dressings:
  • Small x 3.
  • Medium x 3.
  • Large x 3.
• Composite pack containing 20 assorted (individually-wrapped) plasters x 1.
• Sterile eye pads (with bandage or attachment) e.g. No 16 dressing x 2.
• Container of 6 safety pins x 1.
• Guidance booklet.

In addition, the following equipment is kept near to the first aid box:

• 2 pairs of disposable plastic (PVC or vinyl) gloves.
• 1 plastic disposable apron.
• A children’s digital thermometer.
• A supply of instant ice packs.
• Information about who has completed first aid training and the location of the first aid box is provided to all our staff and volunteers. A list of staff and volunteers who have current PFA certificates is displayed at Pre-school.
• The first aid box is easily accessible to adults and is kept out of the reach of children.
• There is a named person in the setting who is responsible for checking and replenishing the first aid box contents.
• Medication is only administered in line with our Medication policy.
• In the case of minor injury or accidents, first aid treatment is given by a qualified first aider.
• In the event of minor injuries or accidents, we normally inform parents when they collect their child, unless the child is unduly upset or we have concerns about the injury. In which case we will contact the child’s parents for clarification of what they would like to do, i.e. whether they wish to collect the child and/or take them to their own GP.
• An ambulance is called for children requiring emergency treatment. We contact parents immediately and inform them of what has happened and where their child has been taken.
• Parents sign a consent form during the induction process (prior to when the child starts at Pre-school) allowing a member of staff to take their child to the nearest Accident and Emergency unit to be examined, treated or admitted as necessary on the understanding that they have been informed and are on their way to the hospital.
• Accidents and injuries are recorded in our accident record book and, where applicable, notified to the Health and Safety Executive, Ofsted and local child protection agencies in line with our Serious Accident Policy.

Legal framework

• Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations (1981)

Version 1.0 (reviewed January 2019)

We encourage a healthy lifestyle; a high standard of hygiene is therefore expected from all adults and children. Weather permitting; every opportunity will be taken to play in the fresh air.

Hygiene

We use the following guidelines to ensure good practice:

• children wash hands after using the toilet, after blowing their noses and before preparing, or eating food.

• social service guidelines on hygiene, especially those relating to bodily fluids, are followed with care.

• staff and volunteers are aware of how infections can be transmitted.

• tissues are used to wipe children’s noses and then disposed of hygienically

• children are encouraged to cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.

• hand sanitiser is placed around the room and used appropriately.

• all surfaces are cleaned with an anti-bacterial spray before and after snack and lunch time.

• spare clothing is available in case of accidents.

Illness

• Parents are asked not to bring any child who has vomited or had diarrhoea to Pre-school, until at least 48 hours has passed since the last attack.

• Parents are asked to keep their children at home if they have any contagious infection and to inform us so that we can alert other parents that the infection is present at Pre-school. We will then also be particularly aware of the symptoms.

• If a child becomes unwell during a session, the Manager will try to contact the parent. If we do not get any response, we will telephone the nominated emergency contact.

• In the case of a child’s temperature rapidly increasing and a parent not being able to collect their child immediately, we would be able to administer Calpol. This would only happen if the child’s parent had signed a consent form.

Food

• The snacks provided will be healthy and take into account the dietary needs of the children present.

• Foods brought in to Pre-school will be checked for content, as some children have allergies to foods, which could be fatal.

• Due to increased incidences of Peanut and Kiwi fruit allergies we do not allow nuts or Kiwi fruit to be brought in, or eaten at Pre-school.

• It is our policy to ensure that the Parent Helper cuts up the food correctly, as directed by the Pre-school Assistant.

A number of staff have completed a Food Hygiene course and obtained the qualification.

Version 2.0 (reviewed January 2019)

At St Andrew’s Pre-school, we feel that home visits are important to help the children, their families’ and the Key Person to get to know each other in an environment in which they feel comfortable. This helps with a smoother transition from home to Pre-school. By meeting their Key Person at home alongside Pre-school visits, the children will find comfort in seeing a familiar face in a familiar environment on their first day.

As a setting, we recognise that a child’s parents are their most enduring educators and we recognise that parents offer diverse strengths. By carrying out a home visit, we can learn from parent’s knowledge, so that we can continue to build on the foundations of their child’s learning and development.

The benefits of a home visit are:

• Building relationships
• Making links from the child’s learning at home to the setting
• Gain information on the children’s skills and interests
• Time to go through any outstanding documents with parents/carers

The Home Visit

• An appointment will be made with parents/carers at a mutually convenient time for all. The visit will last for approximately 30 minutes.

• The Key Person and the Manager/Deputy Manager will wear their uniform, with their name badge.

• The Manager/Deputy Manager will use the time to talk to the family, gaining information about their child and answering any questions. Paperwork may be completed at this time as well. The Key Person will spend their time getting to know the child.

• The Key Person and the Manager/Deputy Manager will ask to see the record of your child’s Two year check in your red book – ‘My personal child health record’. We will be happy to discuss any related information at this time if you wish to do so.

• Both members of staff will stay together during the duration of the home visit and would not be expected to be left alone with the child that they are visiting.

• The Key Person and the Manager/Deputy Manager recognise that they will be guests in the home of the family they are visiting, therefore they will treat all families with a high level of respect and regard for the duration of the visit.

• At any time during the visit, parents may ask a staff member to leave without giving a reason why. Both staff members will leave in this situation.

• If a member of staff feels unsafe, or threatened in anyway during the home visit they will leave the premises.

Procedure for Key Person on a Home Visit

• The Manager/Deputy Manager will go through the Profile Update Form and the Funding Form and answer any questions the parent may have about Pre-school.

• The staff member will ask to see the ‘Red Book’ to look through any notes and to see a record of the 2 year check.

• The Key Person will observe and interact with the child. The Key Person will then record any useful information from the visit on the child’s Tapestry journal at the start of the new term.

• The postcard will be given to the child at the visit.

• A photograph will be taken of the child and parent/s for the Parent Board and Journal.

• Once the visit has ended, Staff will move on to their next visit.

Version 3.0 (reviewed January 2019)

Safeguarding and Welfare Requirement: Staff Qualifications, Training and Skills

Providers must ensure that all staff receive induction training to help them understand their roles and responsibilities.

Policy Statement

We provide an induction for all employees and volunteers in order to fully brief them about the setting, the families we serve, our policies and procedures, curriculum and daily practice.

Procedures

• We have a written induction plan for all new staff, which includes the following:
  • Introductions to all employees and volunteers (including Committee members).
  • Familiarisation with the building, health and safety, and fire and evacuation procedures.
  • Ensuring our policies and procedures are read and adhered to.
  • Introduction to the parents, especially parents of allocated key children where appropriate.
  • Familiarisation with confidential information in relation to any key children where applicable.
  • Details of the tasks and daily routines to be completed.
• The induction is completed within the first half term of joining and the Manager inducts new employees and volunteers.
• During the induction period, the individual must demonstrate understanding of and compliance with policies, procedures, tasks and routines.
• Successful completion of the induction forms part of the probationary period.
• Following induction, we continue to support our staff to deliver high quality performance through regular supervision and appraisal of their work.

Version 1.0 (reviewed January 2019)

Safeguarding and Welfare Requirement: Information and Records

Providers must maintain records and obtain and share information to ensure the safe and efficient management of St Andrew’s Pre-school, and to help ensure the needs of all children are met.

‘Sharing information is an intrinsic part of any frontline practitioners’ job when working with children and young people. The decisions about how much information to share, with whom and when, can have a profound impact on individuals’ lives. It could ensure that an individual receives the right services at the right time and prevent a need from becoming more acute and difficult to meet. At the other end of the spectrum it could be the difference between life and death.’

Information Sharing: Advice for practitioners providing safeguarding services to children, young people, parents and carers (HM Government 2015)

Policy Statement

We recognise that parents have a right to know that the information they share with us will be regarded as confidential, as well as to be informed about the circumstances when, and the reasons why, we are obliged to share information.

We record and share information about children and their families (data subjects) in line with the six principles of the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) (2018) which are further explained in our Privacy Notice that is given to parents at the point of registration. The six principles state that personal data must be:

1. Processed fairly, lawfully and in a transparent manner in relation to the data subject.
2. Collected for specified, explicit and legitimate purposes and not further processed for other purposes incompatible with those purposes.
3. Adequate, relevant and limited to what is necessary in relation to the purposes for which data is processed.
4. Accurate and where necessary, kept up to date.
5. Kept in a form that permits identification of data subjects of no longer than is necessary for the purposes for which the data is processed.
6. Processed in a way that ensures appropriate security of the personal data including protection against accidental loss, destruction or damage, using appropriate technical or organisational measures

We are obliged to share confidential information without authorisation from the person who provided it, or to whom it relates, if it is in the public interest. That is when:

• it is to prevent a crime from being committed or to intervene where one may have been, or to prevent harm to a child or adult; or
• not sharing it could be worse than the outcome of having shared it.

The responsibility for decision-making should not rely solely on an individual, but should have the back-up of the management team. The management team provide clear guidance, policy and procedures to ensure all staff and volunteers understand their information sharing responsibilities and are able to respond in a timely, appropriate way to any safeguarding concerns.

The three critical criteria are:

• Where there is evidence that the child is suffering, or is at risk of suffering, significant harm.
• Where there is reasonable cause to believe that a child may be suffering, or is at risk of suffering, significant harm.
• To prevent significant harm arising to children and young people or adults, including the prevention, detection and prosecution of serious crime.

Procedures

Our procedure is based on the GDPR principles as listed above and the seven golden rules for sharing information in the Information Sharing Advice for practitioners providing safeguarding services to children, young people, parents and carers. We also follow the guidance on information sharing from the Local Safeguarding Children Board.

1. Remember that the General Data Protection Regulations 2018 and Human Rights Law are not barriers to justified information sharing as per the Children Act 1989, but provide a framework to ensure that personal information about living individuals is shared appropriately.

• Our policy and procedures on Information Sharing provide guidance to appropriate sharing of information, both within St Andrew’s Pre-school, as well as with external agencies.

2. Be open and honest with the individual (and/or their family where appropriate) from the outset about why, what, how and with whom information will, or could be shared, and seek their consent, unless it is unsafe or if we have a legal obligation to do so. A Privacy Notice is given to parents at the point of registration to explain this further.

At St Andrew’s Pre-school, we ensure parents:

• Receive a copy of our Privacy Notice and information about our Information Sharing Policy when starting their child in the setting and that they sign our Registration Form to say that they understand the circumstances in which information may be shared without their consent. This will only be when it is a matter of safeguarding a child or vulnerable adult;
• have information about our Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy; and
• have information about the other circumstances when information will be shared with external agencies, for example, with regard to any special needs the child may have or transition to school.

3. Seek advice from other practitioners if you are in any doubt about sharing the information concerned, without disclosing the identity of the individual where possible.

• Our staff discuss concerns about a child routinely in supervision and any actions are recorded in the child’s file.
• Our Manager would seek advice and support from the Local Area Designated Officer (LADO) about possible significant harm.
• Our Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy sets out the duty of all members of our staff to refer concerns to our Manager or Deputy, as designated person, who will contact children’s social care for advice where they have doubts or are unsure.
• Our Manager will seek advice if they need to share information without consent to disclose.

4. Share with informed consent where appropriate and, where possible, respect the wishes of those who do not consent to share confidential information. You may still share information without consent if, in your judgement, there is good reason to do so, such as where safety may be at risk. You will need to base your judgement on the facts of the case. When you are sharing or requesting personal information from someone, be certain of the basis upon which you are doing so. Where you have consent, be mindful that an individual might not expect information to be shared.

• We base decisions to share information without consent on judgements about the facts of the case and whether there is a legal obligation.
• Our guidelines for consent are part of this procedure.
• Our Manager is conversant with this and is able to advise staff accordingly.

5. Consider safety and well-being: Base your information sharing decisions on considerations of the safety and well-being of the individual and others who may be affected by their actions.

At St Andrew’s Pre-school, we:

• record concerns and discuss these with our designated person and/or designated officer from the management team for child protection matters;
• record decisions made and the reasons why information will be shared and to whom; and
• follow the procedures for reporting concerns and record keeping as set out in our Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy.

6. Necessary, proportionate, relevant, adequate, accurate, timely and secure: Ensure that the information you share is necessary for the purpose for which you are sharing it, is shared only with those individuals who need to have it, is accurate and up-to-date, is shared in a timely fashion, and is shared securely.

• Our Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy and Children’s Records Policy set out how and where information should be recorded and what information should be shared with another agency when making a referral.

7. Keep a record of your decision and the reasons for it – whether it is to share information or not. If you decide to share, then record what you have shared, with whom and for what purpose.

• Where information is shared, we record the reasons for doing so in the child’s file; where it is decided that information is not to be shared that is recorded too.

Consent

When parents choose St Andrew’s Pre-school for their child, they will share information about themselves and their families. This information is regarded as confidential. Parents have a right to be informed that we will seek their consent to share information in most cases, as well as the kinds of circumstances when we may not seek their consent, or may override their refusal to give consent. We inform them as follows:

• Our policies and procedures set out our responsibility regarding gaining consent to share information and when it may not be sought or overridden.
• We may cover this verbally when the child starts or include this in our prospectus.
• Parents sign our Registration Form at registration to confirm that they understand this.
• We ask parents to give written consent to share information about any additional needs their child may have, or to pass on child development summaries to the next provider/school.
• We consider the following questions when we assess the need to share:
• Is there a legitimate purpose to us sharing the information?
• Does the information enable the person to be identified?
• Is the information confidential?
• If the information is confidential, do we have consent to share?
• Is there a statutory duty or court order requiring us to share the information?
• If consent is refused, or there are good reasons for us not to seek consent, is there sufficient public interest for us to share information?
• If the decision is to share, are we sharing the right information in the right way?
• Have we properly recorded our decision?
• Consent must be freely given and informed – that is the person giving consent needs to understand why information will be shared, what will be shared, who will see information, the purpose of sharing it and the implications for them of sharing that information as detailed in the Privacy Notice.
• Consent may be explicit, verbally but preferably in writing, or implicit, implied if the context is such that sharing information is an intrinsic part of our service or it has been explained and agreed at the outset.
• Consent can be withdrawn at any time.
• We explain our Information Sharing Policy to parents.

Separated parents

• Consent to share need only be sought from one parent. Where parents are separated, this would normally be the parent with whom the child resides. Where there is a dispute, we will consider this carefully.
• Where the child is looked after, we may also need to consult the Local Authority, as ‘corporate parent’ before information is shared.

All the undertakings above are subject to our paramount commitment, which is to the safety and well-being of the child. Please also see our Safeguarding Children and Child Protection Policy.

Legal framework

• General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) (2018)
• Human Rights Act (1998)

Version 1.0 (reviewed January 2019)

• As soon as a child is discovered missing, search inside and outside.

• If the child is still missing after a thorough search, phone 999.

• Phone parents to inform them of the situation.

• Keep searching until the police arrive and phone for back-up support from the Committee.

• Once the situation is resolved, and the cause of the incident has been investigated, a detailed report will be drawn-up.

Version 1.0 (reviewed January 2019)

Medicines

• Drugs and medicines cannot be administered by our staff unless there are exceptional circumstances: parental written permission and instructions must also be given. Medicines must be brought into Pre-school with the details of prescribed doses in the original packaging. Permission is confirmed by completing a ‘Medication consent’ form or ‘Emergency medication’ form. Please be advised that in an emergency medical situation where prior written permission has not been given to administer medicine, an ambulance will be called.

• For life-saving medication (such as Epipen or Diazepam), Pre-school requires a letter from the child’s GP/consultant with details of the child’s needs. Staff will need to be trained to administer such medication by the GP, or nurse specialist. This training must be arranged by the parents’ prior to the child attending. Training must be specific to the individual child concerned.

• For those children who have a medical condition which requires long term medication, prior parental permission will be recorded on a Health Care plan with instructions for when it should be administered. Parents will be asked to sign this form on collection of their child as and when the medication is administered. If required, these medications will be kept on site for as long as they are required and must be replaced by the parent when they expire.

• Pre-school will inform our insurers of any children in our care with life threatening illnesses requiring medication.

• Medication will be stored out of children’s reach and strictly in accordance with the product instructions. Medication must be in date and in the original container in which it was dispensed. The label (which must be in English and legible) must include the instructions for administration. We will only administer the dosage and frequency indicated on the instructions.

• Prescribed medication can only be given to that particular child; we cannot administer to any other child, including a sibling, any medication that is prescribed for another named child.

• Children who are taking medication may attend Pre-school provided they are not suffering from an infectious illness, are not displaying any signs or symptoms of illness and they are well enough to fully participate in Pre-school activities; this is at the Manager’s discretion.

• Cuts, or open sores, should be covered with an appropriate dressing.

• Parents will have the opportunity to discuss health issues with staff and will have access to any information available to us. We maintain links with local health visitors and the local health authority.

Version 2.0 (reviewed January 2019)

The Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) will aim to:

• Safeguard children by promoting appropriate and acceptable use of information and communication technology (ICT).
• Outline the roles and responsibilities of all individuals who have access to and/are users of, work related ICT systems.
• Ensure all ICT users have an awareness of risk, a clear understanding of what constitutes misuse and the sanctions that may be applied.

The AUP will apply to all individuals who have access to and/or users of work-related ICT systems. This will include children, parents and carers, early year’s practitioners and their managers, volunteers, students, committee members and visitors.

Parents and carers will be informed of any incidents of inappropriate use of ICT that take place on-site and, where relevant, off-site.

Roles and responsibilities

The registered person has overall responsibility for ensuring that online safety is an integral part of everyday safeguarding practice. This will include ensuring that:

• Staff and their managers receive the appropriate training, guidance, time and resources to effectively implement online safety policies and procedures.
• Clear and rigorous policies and procedures are applied to the use/non-use of personal ICT equipment by all individuals who come into contact with the setting. Such policies and procedures should include the personal use of work-related resources.
• The AUP is implemented, monitored and reviewed regularly and any updates are shared with relevant individuals at the earliest opportunity.
• Monitoring procedures are open and transparent.
• Allegations of misuse or known incidents are dealt with appropriately and promptly, in line with agreed procedures, and in liaison with other agencies where applicable.
• Effective online safeguarding support systems are in place e.g. filtering controls, secure networks and virus protection.

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) – Manager
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) – Deputy Manager

The DSL must be a member from the management team who has relevant, current and practical knowledge and understanding of safeguarding, child protection and online safety. Access to the DSL or Deputy DSL should be available at all times.

The DSL and DDSL are responsible for ensuring:

• Agreed policies and procedures are implemented in practice.
• All updates, issues and concerns are communicated to all ICT users.
• The importance of online safety in relation to safeguarding is understood by all ICT users.
• The training, learning and development requirements of early years practitioners are monitored and additional training needs identified and provided for.
• An appropriate level of authorisation is given to ICT users. Not all levels of authorisation will be the same – this will depend on, the position, work role and experience of the individual concerned. In some instances, explicit individual authorisation must be obtained for specific activities where deemed appropriate.
• Any concerns and incidents are reported in a timely manner in line with agreed procedures.
• A safe ICT learning environment is promoted and maintained.

Staff/Volunteers will ensure:

• The timely reporting of concerns in relation to alleged misuse or known incidents.
• ICT equipment is checked before use and all relevant security systems judged to be operational.
• Awareness is raised of any new or potential issues, and any risks which could be encountered as a result.
• Children are supported and protected in their use of on-line technologies – enabling them to use ICT in a safe and responsible manner.
• On-Line safety information is presented to children as appropriate for their age and stage of development.
• All relevant policies and procedures are adhered to at all times and training undertaken as required.

Parents and Carers

• Parents and carers are encouraged to read all policies including Safeguarding, On-Line Safety, Information Sharing and Acceptable Use Policy.
• Prior to children commencing Pre-school, parents and carers are required to sign a Pre- school Agreement to confirm that they have read and understood the policies and procedures of the setting, which includes On-line safety.
• Should parents and carers wish to use personal technologies, (such as cameras) within the setting, practice must be in line with St Andrew’s Pre-school’s policies.

Acceptable use by Staff, Volunteers and Managers
Staff, their managers and volunteers should be able to use work based online technologies:
– To access age appropriate resources for children.
– For research and information purposes.
– For study support.

• All staff and volunteers will be subject to authorised use as agreed by the DSL.
• All staff, volunteers and certain members of the Committee should be provided with a copy of the Acceptable Use Policy, which they must sign, date and return to be kept on file in the office.
• Authorised users should have their own individual password to access a filtered internet service provider. Users are not generally permitted to disclose their password to others, unless required to do so by law or where requested to do so by the DSL. All computers and related equipment that can access personal data should be locked when unattended to prevent unauthorised access.
• The use of personal technologies is subject to the authorisation of the DSL.

In the event of misuse

• In the event of an allegation of misuse by a member of staff, volunteer or Committee member, a report should be made to the DSL immediately.
• Should the allegation be made against the DSL, a report should be made to the DDSL or Chair of the Committee. Procedures should be followed in line with the On-Line Safety Policy and Safeguarding Policy.
• Should allegations relate to abuse or unlawful activity, Children’s Social Care, the Local Authority Designated Office, Ofsted and/or the Police should be notified as applicable.
• In the event that a child accidentally accesses inappropriate material, it must be reported to an adult immediately, who should then report it to the DSL. Appropriate action should be taken to hide or minimise the window. The computer should not be switched off, not the page closed, in order to allow investigations to take place. The child’s parent/carer should be informed as soon as possible.

Acceptable use by visitors

• All guidelines in respect of acceptable use of technologies must be adhered to by any visitors.

Please see the following policies for further information:

•  On-Line safety policies
•  Privacy notice
• Information sharing policy
• Safeguarding children and child protection policy and procedures

ACCEPTABLE USE AGREEMENT
I have read, understand and agree to abide by the On-Line Safety Acceptable Use Policy.

Signature:_________________________________________________________________

Print Name:________________________________________________________________

Date:_____________________________________________________________________

Version 1.0 (reviewed May 2019)

Safeguarding and Welfare Requirement: Child Protection
The Safeguarding policy and procedures must include an explanation of the action to be taken in the event of an allegation being made against a member of staff and cover the use of mobile phones and cameras in the setting.

Policy Statement
We take steps to ensure that there are effective procedures in place to protect children, young people and vulnerable adults from the unacceptable use of Information Communication Technology (ICT) equipment or exposure to inappropriate materials in our setting.

To ensure the safety and welfare of children in our care we operate an On-Line Safety policy to include use of the internet and our Tapestry on-line learning journals. This policy includes the use of cameras, mobile phones and recording devices in order to protect children, protect staff from allegations and to maintain high standards of care within St Andrew’s Pre-school.

The designated persons for On-Line Safety are our Manager and Deputy Manager who have overall responsibility for ensuring the on-line safety (including the use of mobile phones and cameras) of all staff, volunteers and members of the group. They should be aware of the procedures to be followed in the event of a serious online safety allegation being made against a
member of staff or volunteer. They are responsible for ensuring that all staff/volunteers receive suitable training and are aware of the settings policies and procedures. They will also ensure that on-line safety policies are regularly reviewed and updated.

Procedures

Information Communication Technology (ICT) equipment

• Only ICT equipment belonging to the setting is used by staff and children.
• The designated persons are responsible for ensuring all ICT equipment is safe and fit for purpose.
• All computers have virus protection installed.
• The designated persons ensure that safety settings are set to ensure that inappropriate material cannot be accessed.
• All computers, iPads and Tapestry accounts are password protected. Passwords are changed termly.

Internet access

• Children do not normally have access to the internet and never have unsupervised access. Staff may access the internet with children for the purposes of promoting their learning. Written permission for this is gained from parents at Induction.
• The designated persons have overall responsibility for ensuring that children and young people are safeguarded and risk assessments in relation to online safety are completed.
• Children are taught the following stay safe principles in an age appropriate way prior to using the internet;
  • only go on line with a grown up
  • be kind on line
  • keep information about me safely
  • only press buttons on the internet to things I understand
  • tell a grown up if something makes me unhappy on the internet
• Designated persons will also seek to build children’s resilience in relation to issues they may face in the online world, and will address issues such as staying safe, having appropriate friendships, asking for help if unsure, not keeping secrets as part of social and emotional development in age appropriate ways.
• If a second hand computer is purchased or donated to our setting, the designated persons will ensure that no inappropriate material is stored on it before children use it.
• All computers for use by children are located in an area clearly visible to staff.
• Children are not allowed to access social networking sites.
• Staff report any suspicious or offensive material, including material which may incite racism, bullying or discrimination to the Internet Watch Foundation at www.iwf.org.uk .
• Suspicions that an adult is attempting to make inappropriate contact with a child on-line is reported to the National Crime Agency’s Child Exploitation and On-line Protection Centre at www.ceop.police.uk .
• The designated persons ensure staff have access to age-appropriate resources to enable them to assist children to use the internet safely.
• If staff become aware that a child is the victim of cyber-bullying, they discuss this with their parents and refer them to sources of help, such as the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000 or www.nspcc.org.uk, or Childline on 0800 1111 or www.childline.org.uk.

E-mail

• Children are not permitted to use e-mail in the setting. Parents and staff are not normally permitted to use setting equipment to access personal e-mails unless they are relevant to their work.
• Staff do not access personal or work e-mail whilst supervising children.
• Staff send personal information by encrypted e-mail wherever possible, and share information securely at all times.

Mobile phones – children

• Children do not bring mobile phones or other ICT devices with them to the setting. If a child is found to have a mobile phone or ICT device with them, this is removed and stored in a locked drawer until the parent collects them at the end of the session.

Mobile phones – staff, students, volunteers and visitors

• Personal mobile phones are not used by our staff, students and volunteers on the premises
  during working hours. They will be stored in a locked cabinet in the office at all times.
• In an emergency, personal mobile phones may be used in an area where there are no children present, with permission from the Manager. These calls should be made or received in the office after ensuring that appropriate staff-child ratios are still in place.
• Staff members, students and volunteers may access their personal devices whilst off-duty for example before the start of, or at the end of the session and only when all children have left the building.
• Our staff and volunteers ensure that the setting telephone number is known to family and other people who may need to contact them in an emergency.
• We recognise that staff escorting children on an outing need to have access to a mobile phone to maintain contact with the setting and for use in case of an emergency. St Andrew’s Pre-school has a mobile phone which should be used; however staff may use their own mobile phones in cases of emergency and only with the Manager’s permission. The use of this should never distract from the supervision of the children and should not be used for taking photographs.
• If our members of staff or volunteers take their mobile phones on outings, for use in case of an emergency, they must not make or receive personal calls, or take photographs of children.
• Parents and visitors are requested not to use their mobile phones whilst on the premises. We make an exception if a visitor’s company or organisation operates a lone working policy that requires contact with their office periodically throughout the day.
• Visitors will be advised of a quiet space where they can use their mobile phone, where no children are present. Signs are clearly visible around the setting, stating that mobile phones are prohibited.
• These rules also apply to the use of work-issued mobiles, and when visiting or supporting staff in other settings.

Cameras and videos

• Children will only be photographed or recorded if parental consent has been obtained.
• Parents/carers will be made aware of this policy, and permission given on the Pre-school Agreement. If a parent/carer does not give permission for their child to be photographed, all staff will be informed so that all reasonable steps can be taken to ensure that the child is not included in any photographs at St Andrew’s Pre-school.
• Our staff and volunteers must not bring their personal cameras or video recording equipment into the setting. Children will only be photographed and recorded by the use of a camera, iPad or recording device that belongs to St Andrew’s Pre-school. The Pre-school camera will be stored in a locked drawer in the office outside of Pre-school hours.
• All computers and iPads are password protected and can be inspected anytime, without notice, by the Manager and another witness. Any photographs not required will be deleted.
• Photographs and recordings of children are only taken for valid reasons i.e. to record their learning and development, or for displays within the setting, with written permission received by parents. Such use is monitored by the Manager.
• Photographs will only be taken of children during normal Pre-school activities. Cameras, mobile phones, iPads or other recording devices will never be taken into toilets/changing areas. A child will never be photographed when their clothes or nappy are being changed.
• Photographs may be taken and included in a child’s learning journey or may be printed and displayed within the Pre-school. Photographs that are stored on the Pre-school computer or on Pre-school iPads will be deleted immediately after printing or uploading to the Tapestry Learning Journal. Permission for storing elsewhere will be given and noted by the Manager.
• Where parents request permission to photograph or record their own children at special events, general permission is gained from all parents for their children to be included. Parents are advised that they do not have a right to photograph anyone else’s child or to upload photos of anyone else’s children.
• If photographs of children are used for publicity purposes, parental consent must be given and safeguarding risks minimised, for example, ensuring children cannot be identified by name or through being photographed in a sweatshirt with the name of our Pre-school on it.
• Only St Andrew’s Pre-school staff and Committee who have Enhanced DBS (disclosure and barring) are permitted to take photographs within the Pre-school. Parent helpers, volunteers and other visitors are not permitted to take photographs during Pre-school sessions unless instructed to do so by the Manager.

Social media

• Staff are advised to manage their personal security settings to ensure that their information is only available to people they choose to share information with.
• Staff should not accept service users, children and parents as friends/followers due to it being a breach of expected professional conduct.
• In the event that staff name the organisation or workplace in any social media they do so in a way that is not detrimental to the organisation or its service users.
• Staff observe confidentiality and refrain from discussing any issues relating to work.
• Staff should not share information they would not want children, parents or colleagues to view.
• Staff should report any concerns or breaches to the designated persons of St Andrew’s Pre-school.
• Staff avoid personal communication, including on social networking sites, with the children and parents with whom they act in a professional capacity. If a practitioner and family are friendly prior to the child coming into the setting, this information is shared with the Manager prior to a child attending and a risk assessment and agreement in relation to
  boundaries is agreed. Electronic learning journals for recording children’s progress
• Staff adhere to the guidance provided with the system at all times.

Use and/or distribution of inappropriate images

• Staff are aware that it is an offence to distribute indecent images. In the event of a concern that a colleague or other person is behaving inappropriately, the Safeguarding Children and Child Protection policy, in relation to allegations against staff and/or responding to suspicions of abuse, is followed.
• Staff are aware that grooming children and young people on line is an offence in its own right and concerns about a colleague’s or others’ behaviour are reported (as above).
• Staff should:
  • Ensure they are familiar with the settings On-Line safety policy and procedures to be followed in the event of an online safety incident taking place.
  • Ensure that they have read, understood and signed the Staff/Volunteer Acceptable Use Policy (AUP).
  • Report any suspected misuse or problem to the designated people, particularly where it is believed that a child’s welfare is at risk.
  • They are aware of online safety issues particularly those related to the use of mobile phones, cameras and handheld devices including iPads for Tapestry, and that they monitor their use and implement the group policies with regard to these devices.
  • When using social networking sites such as Facebook, staff must remember that they are in a professional position and are responsible for the care and education of children.
  • Behave appropriately when on the internet and should not discuss their work or any persons connected with their work.
  • Ensure all electronic communication with, parents, carers, staff and others is compatible with their professional role and in line with the policies of the setting.
  • Not share work related information whether written or pictorial in any way or talk about their professional role in any capacity when using social media such as Facebook and YouTube.
  • Ensure that there is no mention of the setting, names of staff, committee members or attending children or their families.
  • Not encourage parents as friends on social networking sites.
  • Not put on-line any text, image, sound or video that could upset or offend anyone connected to the setting, member of the community or be incompatible with their professional role.
  • Only take images of children and /or staff for professional purposes, in accordance with St Andrew Pre-school’s policy and using Pre-school equipment. They should also ensure that the parent/carer of any child has given written consent.
  • Not upload any photos of other staff, or children and their families on any site other than Tapestry (except for nominated individuals who may upload such photos onto the Pre-school website after gaining written permission from the staff or parent/carer).
  • Make sure that all photos placed on the Pre-school website or Tapestry should portray those shown in a positive context.
  • Respect the privacy and the feelings of others.
  • Not browse, download, upload or distribute any material that could be considered offensive, illegal or discriminatory.
  • Not engage in activities on the internet (whether in work or outside) which may bring the setting or its associated employees into disrepute.
  • Have a duty to report any on-line safety incident which may impact on them, their professionalism or the organisation.
• All staff understand their responsibilities under the General Data Protection Regulations and the circumstances under which they may record, process and share information about you and your child.
• Any communications or content published, that causes damage to St Andrew’s Pre-school or any of its employees, children or families may amount to misconduct or gross misconduct and could lead to dismissal.

Version 1.0 (reviewed May 2019)

Parents/carers are the first educators of young children. Our aim is to support this essential work by:

• making all new parents/carers aware of our systems, policies and procedures.
• ensuring that parents/carers are informed on a regular basis of their child’s progress.
• offering opportunities to parents/carers to contribute to our work: as general
  helpers, and by sharing their talents e.g. through music, computers, art, crafts etc.
• ensuring that all parents/carers are fully informed about meetings, Pre-school Alliance and RBC events.
• making known to all parents/carers the systems available for registering queries, complaints or suggestions (see Complaints Policy and Procedure).
• providing opportunities for parents/carers to learn about young children’s learning and development through meetings and courses.

Parent helpers

• Parent helpers are a vital part of our Pre-school. We rely on the contribution of parent helpers at each session to provide additional support for activities and to clear away the children’s snacks. Parent help is also an essential route for providing assistance with preparation for activities and for the maintenance and repair of equipment. Parent helpers are managed by our Pre-school Assistant whilst onsite. Parent help is a great way to participate in your child’s Pre-school experience, get to know other parents/families and talk to your child’s Key Person. All Pre-school
  families are required to perform parent help duties unless there are extenuating circumstances affecting their ability to do so. Please note that it is not possible for parent helpers to be accompanied by non-Pre-school siblings.

Rota principles and procedure

• We have a parent helper at each of our morning sessions to maintain our high adult/child ratio. This ensures that we have enough adults to care for the children and it helps to keep costs down.
• At the end of each term, parents are asked to sign up for sessions using our online tool. You will be required to do approximately two duties per term.
• It is acceptable for either parent to cover the parent help session, or for a grandparent, or other well-known adult to attend in your place. These changes also mean that you will be able to focus entirely on your parent help duties including spending time with your child as they take part in their chosen activities.
• Unless special circumstances apply, parents with younger siblings not at Pre-school will still be required to undertake their quota of parent help sessions. The following are examples of special circumstances, but others may exist:
  • Specialist healthcare requirements
  • Ongoing social services involvement, such as adoption processes
  • Siblings under 6 months

Affected parents should communicate special circumstances when completing the Parent Help Rota Information form.

• It is the responsibility of those scheduled on the rota to arrange cover or swap parent help sessions if, for whatever reason, they become unavailable for that date. The person originally scheduled should amend the printed “master copy” of the rota in the “Parent Help Rota” file on display in the entrance hall and inform the Parent Help Rota Administrator, by email, of the cover arrangements made. This step is essential in order that the weekly Parent Help chart in the Pre-school entrance hall may be accurately completed; the staff team relies on this document to find out who will be on site doing parent help at each session.
• Families must inform the Pre-school of any changes in contact details. Please ensure both the Pre-school Manager/Deputy Manager and Parent Help Rota Administrator are notified of changes.
• No parent helpers will be scheduled on the following days:
  • Inset Days
  • Pre-school outing
  • Christmas party
  • Polling days (Pre-school closed)
• Any non-compliance with this Parent Help Policy will be addressed by the Committee with the parent, at the Committee’s discretion.

Version 3 (reviewed January 2019)