At Whitley Lodge Under Fives we are committed to providing a safe, stimulating and caring environment, where learning is fun and children can enjoy social interaction with their peers.
We are sensitive to children’s individual needs and encourage them to reach their full potential at their own pace.
We work in partnership with parents to provide a quality pre-school experience.
Whitley Lodge Under Fives is made up of a sessional pre-school (sometimes called Playgroup) which meets daily and a Toddler group which meets on two afternoons a week. (Term time only)
| Day | Time | Session |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 9.00 – 12 Noon | Pre-school |
| 12.35 – 3.05pm | Pre-school | |
| Tuesday | 9.00 – 12 Noon | Pre-school |
| 1.30 – 3.00pm | Toddlers | |
| Wednesday | 9.00 – 12 Noon | Pre-school |
| 12.35 – 3.05pm | Pre-school | |
| Thursday | 9.00 – 12 Noon | Pre-school |
| Friday | 9.00 – 12 Noon | Pre-school |
| 1.30 – 3.00pm | Toddlers |
Afternoon sessions for pre-school commence when there is sufficient demand for places
The Pre-school employs five members of staff who are all experienced in working with children and four members of staff hold Level 3 qualifications (minimum). The group encourages staff to attend ongoing training. Staff and regular volunteers all undergo various checks, including DBS to ensure suitability.
The sessions are staffed at the ratio of one staff member to four children under three years and one staff member to eight children over three years. In every session there is a Level 3 Supervisor and a named Deputy.
Sometimes we have students on university/college placement in the group, but they are not counted in the adult: child ratios.
On outings ratios are one member of staff to two unaccompanied children and if an outing takes place involving a small group we ensure that the safe ratios are maintained within the setting.
| Staff member | Level | Named person |
|---|---|---|
| Carol Shields | 3 | Safeguarding children/Manager |
| Joanne Cameron | 3 | SENDCo/Deputy Manager/Deputy Safeguarding |
| Helen Potts | 3 | Health and Safety |
| Jayne Pronk | QTS | Equality and Diversity |
Amy Kennedy |
The Pre-school is registered with Ofsted and undergoes a rigorous inspection. We were last inspected on 4th May 2023. Ofsted check that we meet all the requirements set out in the EYFS including the number and ages of children. Our certificate of registration is displayed at all times.
The Early Years Directorate of Ofsted is responsible for the registration and inspection of early years provision, handles queries and complaints and publishes information on all aspects of regulation.
Our Ofsted URN is 310255.