Linton Lane Centre

Linton Lane Playgroup was inspected in May 2005 as part of the integrated inspection programme by the Care Commission and HM Inspectorate of Education. The playgroup catered for pre-school children aged from two-and-a-half to five years. Some children attending the playgroup and other children from local provision were cared for in a lunch club attached to the playgroup. At the time of the inspection the playgroup roll was 41. The playgroup was located in a designated room and adjacent hall within the community centre. The indoor accommodation was clean, safe and secure. Staff demonstrated an awareness of safety issues and promoted good hygiene practice. There was a variety of displays at child height.

The layout provided opportunities for children to work independently or in groups. However, staff should review the layout of the playroom to enable children to make full use of a wide range of art and craft resources daily and develop information and communications technology (ICT) experiences for children. The outdoor play area provided opportunities for energetic play. Some safety matters needed to be addressed including the removal of litter and glass prior to children playing outdoors. The outdoor area was not secure and children’s safety was dependent on staff vigilance. An additional barrier fitted between the fence and ground would reduce the risk of children crawling underneath. Whilst risk assessments were in place, these should be reviewed and improved.