Fun way to outstanding rating

A STALYBRIDGE children’s club deemed so good by parents they ‘would be really lost without it’ has been given a top rating by inspectors.

Funtasia, which operates out of St Paul’s Centre on Huddersfield Road, has maintained its outstanding status.

And Ofsted inspectors even told how children aged between three and 11 years old are being taught about how democracy works by deciding what rules they have to adhere to.

Their report states: “Staff encourage children to choose future activities and events by sharing their ideas and then voting.“This helps children to understand how democracy works. Children help to determine the rules to follow while at the club.

“This helps them to follow expectations and to have a strong sense of belonging. For example, children decide that they should use ‘kind words’ and have ‘kind hands’.

“Children’s excitement and chatter fill the air as they arrive at this vibrant club, ready for their end-of-year party.

“Children approach staff for a hug if they need reassurance. They think of their own dance moves, such as twirling on the spot and keenly follow the rules while playing ‘musical bumps’.”

It is not just life at the centre, which operates from Monday to Friday during term time, with sessions from 7.30am to 9am and from 3.15pm to 6pm, that children were keen to talk about.

And the six members of staff take it upon themselves to pick what can be done better.

The report adds: “Children are keen to tell the inspector about their home lives.

“They raise money for charities, for example by baking and selling cakes. Children learn that these initiatives help others who are less fortunate than themselves.

“Thorough self-evaluation includes the views of staff, children and parents. This helps leaders to continually improve the club.

“And staff report that leaders support them well. They say that the children brighten their day and that working at the club is like being ‘part of a family’.”