Managing risk in a high risk environment

Nature Trails Day Nursery operates from a semi-rural environment in Rugby and offers a wide range of outdoor learning for children of all ages, with Forest School available for children over three years old. The setting accommodates around 90 children daily and employs 36 staff, with the majority of staff currently trained in Paediatric First Aid.

The level of risk associated with extensive outdoor play is slightly increased compared with settings where the scope of outdoor play is more limited, but Nature Trails recognises and values the benefit of risky play. Staff carry out risk assessments and take First Aid boxes, mobile phones and emergency contact numbers on every outing.

All staff working in direct contact with the children hold Paediatric First Aid, and lunch time supervisors are also funded to undertake Paediatric First Aid training. New staff are booked onto courses within three months of starting work. As well as funding extra training such as this, the nursery runs an in-house training programme. Staff also attend reflective meetings weekly, which address issues such as health and safety at work.

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