MASK (Mossley After School Club)

About this early years setting

MASK (Mossley After School Club) is an out-of-school club in Congleton for children aged four to eleven. At its Ofsted inspection in October 2017, it received a judgement of Good. The inspector reported that children have a strong sense of belonging and high levels of self-esteem. They are supported to discuss their feelings and what it means to be a good friend. Children spend much of their time playing outdoors, where activities include basketball, ring games, relay races, and using climbing apparatus.

The club’s activity programme is linked to children's interests and complements their learning at school. Staff support children's reading and help them gain an understanding of how to keep healthy. The organisation maintains links with local primary schools and gives parents updates about their children's time at the setting. MASK is open Monday to Friday for 50 weeks of the year. During term time, sessions run from 7.15am to 8.50am and 3.30pm to 6pm. The holiday club operates from 7.15am until 6pm.

What it's like

Children's laughter fills the air of this vibrant setting. They giggle with delight as they enter and are eager to tell staff about their day at school. Children have a strong sense of belonging and have high levels of self-esteem. They talk to each other about their feelings and discuss what it means to be a good friend. Children know what is expected of them and follow the rules of the setting. They behave well and show positive attitudes towards their play. Children were excited to showcase their football skills to the inspector. Children enjoy spending most of their time playing outdoors. They play ring games and basketball. Children cheer their friends on while doing relay races and show good climbing skills. They learn how to balance on apparatus and remind each other how to play games safely. Children gain good levels of independence. They take care of their personal belongings, tidy toys away and tend to their physical needs. Children develop the necessary skills to support them in their next steps in play.