Playful Angmering club is an outstanding one

Ticklemetoo breakfast, after school and holiday club, based in Arundel Road, was highly praised for the standard of education it offers for children.

The report praised many aspects of the group – with staff and leadership proving to have played a pivotal role in the club’s top-notch teaching and result.

The report said: “Staff understand the children extremely well and know precisely what is needed to engage and challenge them.

“Excellent relationships between staff and children help children to feel very safe and secure in their learning environment.

“When children arrive at the club, they greet the staff with smiles and hugs, and are eager to chat about their school day and what they would like to do.”

Inspector Helen Edwards highlighted that the relationships between staff and the children was extremely strong.

As a result, the children thrive through a range of playful activities which helps to build the youngsters’ confidence and independence.

In her report, Mrs Edwards said: “(The children) engage in physical play using the large climbing equipment, and enjoy making dens with camouflage materials, creating quiet and cosy spaces to chat with their friends.

“Children use the extensive outdoor facilities in all weathers, and learn about the natural environment in the forest area and large playing fields.”

Mrs Edwards also noted the staff’s professionalism and good behaviour was a source of inspiration for the young children, who she noted felt very safe and welcome at the group.

“Staff are outstanding role models and as result, children behave exceedingly well,” she said. “Consistent boundaries are in place to help children know what is expected of them and staff receive regular training to ensure behaviour management procedures are consistent.

“Children readily share the resources and take turns. They play harmoniously together and have respect for each other’s needs and feelings.”

The role of Ticklemeetoo’s leadership – its focus and drive – were also praised by the watchdog.

“The quality of leadership and management is exemplary,” the report said. “The management team has a strong drive to reflect on the provision and seek the views of children, parents and staff to maintain consistent improvements.

“There is a very strong emphasis on safeguarding with comprehensive policies and procedures clearly understood by staff.”

Martin Duggan and his wife, Zoe, run the club.

They were both thrilled about the result of the inspection, which Martin said left staff ‘over-the-moon’.

He said: “To be honest, we were all shocked by it. It was a really great feeling.

“Ofsted had graded us as ‘good’ in the last inspection so to be ‘outstanding’ now is a great achievement.

“It just means we are going in the right direction.”

Martin said the organisation put a heavy emphasis on play.

“It’s the best way for the children to find out more about themselves and to learn,” he said.