Risk assessment template
We have developed an exemplar risk assessment plan to help you to identify possible risks faced in opening to additional children or re-opening following a closure period. It provides suggestions and considerations of protective measures to mitigate these risks. This sample document has been considered for a larger childcare provision but also includes points that will be relevant for the whole sector.
The intention is for this to be used as a sample template and it is for you to amend, edit, adapt and reflect upon to open your provision in a safe and secure way with clear protective measures in place. We hope you find this useful in promoting a safe return to work.
Early Years bulletin
Stay up to date with our Early Years bulletin for Northamptonshire nurseries, pre-schools, and childminders or out of school provision. It aims to keep all staff in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) informed of relevant information to support them in their work.
Coping with anxiety and promoting wellbeing
During the current coronavirus pandemic, early years providers, practitioners and children will be facing challenges and changes to their individual lives. Feelings of worry, anxiety and concern for our health and the health of others may be experienced. Feeling anxious is a perfectly natural reaction to some situations and is something everyone may experience at times.
There are lots of ways you can try to help cope with anxiety and minimise stress to help you look after your mental health and support the wellbeing of others around you.
We have put together articles to help support you at this time:
Keeping in touch with parents or carers whose children are at home
We have produced a set of guidance documents aimed at staying connected with children and families during a full or partial closure of your provision, due to an outbreak of COVID-19 as advised by Department of Education and local health protection teams. They can also be used to keep in touch with a family self-isolating as advised by NHS Test and Trace.
This guidance is designed to assist early years providers to continue to support the learning of children and help parents and carers provide a positive learning environment at home. It is particularly important that providers keep in touch with children with an Education and Health Care Plan and vulnerable children for safeguarding purposes.