08/10/2026
We are pleased to share that we have successfully achieved reassessment of the Healthy and Sustainable pre-school scheme!
We had some lovely feedback following this:
'It was a delight to visit Gruffalos Den undertake the re-accreditation of the Cwm Taf Morgannwg Healthy and Sustainable Pre-School Scheme. It was a fun filled morning with time to look at written evidence, observe the morning routine and discuss aspects of the Scheme with the team. From the on-set it was clear that all health topics had been maintained and, in most cases, developed.
The evidence presented gave a substantive overview of the many activities that children and staff regularly participate in. An array of policies and procedures are in-place, which underpin the daily provision. All staff sign the policies and amendments are discussed during staff meetings. Staff have access to both mandatory and professional development training opportunities and all individual needs are discussed during supervisions and appraisals. Staff have access to a Health and Well-being App which is provided by the wider organisation to support with all aspects of well-being.
It was a pleasure to observe the daily routines and activities throughout the setting. The voice of the child is widely promoted throughout with many children asking for activities and joining in with their peers The interaction between the staff and children was warm and positive and it was a pleasure to see such positive reinforcement from the praise and encouragement given to all of the children. Staff reinforced kind hands, and being kind to our friends, confirming the consistent approach to behaviour management. Individual needs were catered for extremely well, with key staff being aware of individual needs. It was evident that inclusion is of very high importance to the team and this was reflective within the activities and displays. Furthermore, a sense on belonging was also evident with children having their own coat pegs, the family display and pets.
The Designed to Smile programme is firmly embedded and it was a joy to observe the activity. It was apparent that the routine was firmly embedded with staff and children being confident in their approach to the activity.
The setting is very well resourced within the indoor and outdoor environments. Despite the small outdoor area the team have developed a small gardening area which the children have enjoyed caring for. Since the last accreditation the climbing frame has been introduced which offers opportunities for risky play. It was a pleasure to observe music and movement; children were thoroughly involved choosing songs and activities etc. Circle time was well structured with time for children to discuss feelings and also singing together.
Snack time was a social and enjoyable experience for all of the children. Children washed their hands before snack, collected their cutlery, bowls and glasses and then confidently helped themselves to snack. Children were given a choice of milk or water which they own poured independently from a small jug. Staff supported individual children with lots of encouragement and individual dietary requirements were catered for in line with the allergen information, which is displayed within the kitchen area. After snack, children recycled any food waste and placed their used glasses and bowls on to the side and then wiped their faces and washed their hands. The independence skills and learning opportunities throughout this experience were excellent accompanied by lots of discussion about the different shapes and colours.
Hygiene and Safety are of paramount importance within the daily running of the setting. It was very evident during the visit that all staff follow the safety and hygiene procedures agreed with management. All staff are fully aware of their individual responsibilities to ensure the safety of the children and themselves. Practice observed during the visit reinforced the procedures set out within the array of policies and risk assessments. Examples included; consent forms, allergen information, cleaning schedules, illness absence, designated leads and daily checks. It was a very hot day so there was lots of discussion about keeping safe in the sun. These conversations were supported by activities such as putting cream and hats on the dolls.
The team work hard to ensure good hygienic practices are followed and appear to follow the ‘Infection Prevention and Control for Childcare Settings 0-5 years All Wales Guidance’ (2025) in its everyday practice. The Infection Control audit is reviewed termly, and any amendments are discussed during team meetings. The setting has received a score of 5 from the Food Standards agency and the checklists within the kitchen area, reinforced the procedures as set out within the array of policies. Useful contact numbers included the AWARE team and records of sickness absence are recorded and reported if necessary. Hand washing is promoted throughout the session supported by guidance, which was displayed at all sinks.
Working with families is of very high importance to all of the team. As well as verbal feedback, the setting utilises the Famly App to share important reminders such as sickness absence, local events and the daily activities that children have enjoyed. The team endeavour to promote Local and National Initiatives such as: - , Immunisation, Help Me Quit, toileting, talk and play and exclusion periods to name but a few. Families are invited into the setting every half term, to join in with session and to share the learning experiences as a family.
Big congratulations to the team at Gruffalos Den for successfully completing the re-accreditation of the Cwm Taf Morgannwg Health and Sustainable Pre-School Scheme.'
