Carelessness with children’s medication leads to poor rating for Greenwich nursery
By Joe Coughlan, Local Democracy Reporter
A Greenwich nursery has been given the worst possible rating by Ofsted after children’s medication was found to be unlabelled and their allergies were not fully checked.
Little Elms Daycare in Greenwich Creekside has been rated ‘inadequate’ in all areas by the education watchdog in its most recent inspection.
The nursery was criticised for ‘significant weaknesses’ in its management, which reportedly put children at risk of harm. The inspector claimed that leaders at the nursery did not have systems in place to make sure medication was administered effectively.
The report said: “The processes used to record information about children’s medical needs and medication storage vary across the setting.
“Cabinets contain expired medication, medication belonging to children who have left, and unlabelled medication. This oversight puts children’s health and welfare at risk.”
The health of infants at the nursery was also reportedly compromised by staff not fully checking admissions forms with its details of dietary requirements and allergies before children started there.
Children were also cited as often being disengaged from play and wandering ‘aimlessly’ when they got bored. The outdoor area of the nursery was described as being ‘poorly organised’, causing children to become confused.
However, staff were commended for helping children to feel comfortable by welcoming them when they arrived at the nursery. The inspector also praised the organisation of daily outings.
The report said: “Staff make use of museums, parks, playgrounds and the riverside when they take children on daily outings. These trips give children a wide range of experiences and opportunities that broaden their understanding of the world.”
The chief of operations for the nursery said: “We take these findings very seriously and are implementing an immediate action plan to address the issues raised.
“Ensuring the highest quality of care and education for our children remains our top priority.”
Pictured top: The nursery is in Wood Wharf at Greenwich Creekside (Picture: Google Street View)