AN “energetic” holiday club for children in Thornbury has been given a glowing Ofsted report.
Future Stars Coaching sessions at Manorbrook Primary School, in Park Road, were judged to have met the regulator’s Early Years provision standards.
Up to 50 children, aged five to 11, attend the sessions, which run from 8am to 5pm during school holidays.
Inspector Louise Phillips said staff support children’s physical health well, and encourage them to participate in a wide range of activities that support their physical and social development.
She said the friendly, welcoming staff build good connections with them.
The report said: “Younger children seek out key persons to help them resolve conflicts and to invite them into their play. Staff offer the children lots of praise and encouragement, which helps build their confidence and self-esteem.”
During the inspection last December, activities at the club included playing a range of board games, which the report said “engages the children socially and encourages critical-thinking skills”.
Physical activities, including a chasing game called ‘crazy tag’, are held indoors and out.
The inspector said: “This allows children to get out of breath, which supports their overall health and well-being.”
The inspector said children told her they enjoyed coming to the holiday club.
Staff meet the needs of all children effectively, including those with special educational needs or disabilities.
The report said: “Staff follow individual plans and work closely with the parents to ensure that the children feel safe and secure at the club.
“They ensure that all children feel included in the activities and their interests are incorporated into the environment.”
Regular discussions with parents help plan a range of activities, and parents receive daily feedback on what their children have been doing.
Staff told the inspector they enjoy working at the holiday club and feel valued by the management team. Staff complete regular training online.
Lead coach Felix Britain said: “I’m over the moon with the report.
“Being a resident of Thornbury myself, it’s been great to provide such an inclusive, welcoming and fun club for the children.”
Holiday club manager Mollie Payne said: “It shows the team’s hard work is being noticed not only by the children and families, but by Ofsted too. The club has gone from strength to strength over the last several years, with most days selling out.
“The children of Thornbury are so amazing to work with. We’re particularly grateful of the relationship we’ve built with the school, as they’ve allowed us to try new projects and ideas, meaning that the children get the best days with us.”
Picture: Manorbrook Primary pupils with coach Harley Foley and lead coach Felix Britain.