“Escape Zone: Staff give a warm & friendly welcome to the energetic holiday club, with children entering happy and eager to see what they will be doing that day” – Ofsted

Escape Zone Holiday Club, based at Ashton Park School and a part of Excalibur Academies Trust, is celebrating a recent Ofsted report, with praise in abundance for its attitude and enthusiasm to provide an environment with varied provision focused on building confidence/self esteem, physical activity and a healthy lifestyle approach.

Ofsted observed that staff “Provide younger children with reassurance and praise, which enables them to settle quickly. They work hard to form strong connections with the children and families in their care.” Furthermore “Children are encouraged to share their views and help shape the day’s activities. Staff get the children to vote on which games to play. This gives children a sense of ownership and belonging.”

Whilst popular activities chosen may include dodgeball and wink wink murder (encouraging cooperation and “lots of laughter”), Escape Zone’s collaboration with external organisations means that children also experience enriching activities such as paddle boarding, raft building and football skills sessions. Ofsted notes that: “In addition to these high-energy options, quieter activities, like colouring and puzzle, are thoughtfully provided. This ensures children have space to relax, self-regulate and enjoy calm moments when needed.”

Throughout break, lunch and tuck shop times, children are encouraged to make healthy choices. This sparks “discussions about what foods help our bodies, and which are best kept as occasional treats”. Counting out the money for the tuck stop also “supports younger ones with early maths skills while also encouraging independence and thoughtful decision-making.”

One of the key contributing factors to this glowing report is the happiness and positivity of staff, who were found to genuinely enjoy, and take pride in, their work. Ofsted comments: “Staff work collaboratively and supportively, describing the team as having a ‘family feel’ that promotes trust, and a shared commitment to providing high-quality experiences for all children”.

Sam Delaney, Community Sports Centre Manager and Team Leader of Escape Zone comments: “I have a brilliant team around me who are collectively proud and delighted to read this report. Every member brings a special kind of energy and shared passion to ensure that the children have the best possible experience. This recognition means so much – it reflects the dedication, creativity and care that go into everything we do.”

Richard Uffendell, Headteacher of Ashton Park School concludes: “A huge thank you and heartfelt congratulations to our amazing school holiday club, Escape Zone. As a community organisation dedicated to serving our neighbours, we’re incredibly proud of the work our team does, especially during the holidays when many of our staff are on a well-deserved break.

“The team at Escape Zone has shown incredible dedication and passion, continuing to care for, educate, and inspire our young people. Their commitment has resulted in an outstanding Ofsted outcome, which truly reflects the very best of our organisation’s values and our shared dedication to the community.”