BestStart Howick

"Teachers observe children to identify their current learning dispositions and use this information to plan for the programme. They prepare activities that support learning related to centre or community events."

Sound teaching practices with observation-based planning evident; assessment strengthening needed.

"Children show a strong sense of belonging in the centre. They confidently engage with other children and staff and with the activities set up by teachers. Children have time to engage in sustained play."

Strong belonging and engagement; infants' provision being reviewed for developmental responsiveness.

"Parents are becoming increasingly involved in contributing to centre decision-making and the educational programme. They are consulted through surveys and discussions. Teachers encourage parents to share their aspirations for their children as learners, so that they can include these in the programme planning."

Growing parental involvement and consultation; communication and engagement increasing effectively.

"The centre manager and head teacher have a shared understanding of quality teaching and learning and model good practices. They provide effective feedback to teachers to support ongoing improvement. They are building leadership capacity within the centre with the intention of having staff contribute more to decision making."

Effective shared leadership; internal evaluation and staff capacity-building in progress.