A long-running childcare setting has spoken about the pressures of adapting to Ofsted’s revamped inspection framework after nearly two decades of caring for local children.
PJs Childminding, based in Cullompton, said its latest inspection was carried out under a new grading system which staff found “challenging to understand”.
The setting has operated from its home-based premises for the past 18 years and is currently run by registered carers Paul Dickson and Paula Dickson, alongside assistant Amelia Searle. All three hold level three childcare qualifications.
According to the group, they currently care for 13 children aged between nine months and four years old.
The latest inspection, which took place in January, marked the fourth overall inspection for the setting. The previous three inspections all resulted in the highest “Outstanding” rating, with the most recent before this taking place in February 2020 shortly before the Covid pandemic.
In a statement reflecting on the inspection, the childcare team said they remained committed to providing a “nurturing and supportive environment” for children and families.
The statement added: “The dedication and hard work of our team is always directed towards providing the highest quality of care and education.”
Staff also thanked parents who spoke to inspectors during the visit and praised the children for their behaviour throughout the inspection process.
Discussing the updated Ofsted framework, the team said: “The introduction of a new grading system by Ofsted has made it challenging to understand exactly what is expected.”
They added that the uncertainty surrounding the new process had created additional stress because of the importance they place on supporting children and families.
The childcare providers said they were pleased with the grade they received, but believed inspection grades alone do not always reflect the quality of work carried out across the sector.
The statement concluded with a message of support for childcare professionals, praising the work carried out across the industry to support young children and their families.
