An open door policy
Your child's key person is available to discuss progress, home diaries go back and forth between us, and assessments are monitored regularly so you get proper consultations through the year.
Safety & wellbeing
In safe and careful hands
Secure premises, a checked and trained team, and support shaped around each child. Here is how we look after yours.
The short version
The everyday details, done properly
All access points secured·Attendance recorded in and out·Every team member enhanced DBS checked
Safeguarding
How we keep children safe
We have a duty under the law to help safeguard children against suspected or actual significant harm. In practice, it looks like this.
All access points are secured, and our systems record all attendance in and out of the premises. We know who is in the building, always.
Secure premisesEvery member of the team holds a fully enhanced DBS disclosure, and effective systems make sure that all staff, and any other person with regular contact with children, are suitable.
The right peopleEveryone completes an induction programme covering child protection procedures and health and safety procedures before they work with your child.
From day oneThe team holds correct and up-to-date childcare qualifications, with ongoing training and support from the local authorities and external sources.
Kept up to dateQuestions about any of this? Just ask. We would rather you did.
Ofsted
Rated Good
Our Ofsted inspection rating is Good. The inspection report is available to view in the foyer, whenever you would like to read it.
SEND and the Local Offer
Every child, making the best possible progress
All early years settings in Essex are expected to identify and support children with special educational needs and/or disabilities, so they make the best possible progress. Here is how that works here, from registration onwards.
How support starts
- At registration we gather information from you, and ask for an All About Me booklet.
- You and your child visit before the first day and meet their key person.
- Through regular observation, the key person identifies where a child may need support.
- They work with our SENCO, and any other agencies already involved, to put strategies in place, built around your child's likes, dislikes and favourite toys and games.
You are included throughout every stage of planning, and the area SENCO is informed.
Trips and outdoor activities
Outdoor activities and trips within the local community are reviewed regularly so every child can take part. You are informed of trip details, and a risk assessment is completed beforehand.
Access and parking
The setting is wheelchair accessible, with a disabled toilet and two disabled parking spaces in the school car park.
Specialist resources
Resources can be accessed from the Essex resource centre, through the area SENCO or specialised teachers.
Experienced hands
Owner Jackie West works closely with all staff members, who have years of experience supporting children with additional needs and providing one-to-one support.
Help beyond the nursery
Local children's centres have family link workers who can support families with forms, computer and internet access, and guidance on when to access support and funding.
To talk about your child before they start, call Jackie West on 07980 614191 or email windinthewillowsnursery@yahoo.co.uk.
Talk it through before the first day.
Ask us anything, or come and look around.