Creche Inspection Reports

Regulation 23 in Wexford

Safeguarding Health, Safety and Welfare of Child: 50 non-compliance(s) in the latest reports we read.

An inspection records what inspectors saw on one day; services respond with corrective actions — how to read this.

15 June 2026

Crossabeg Community Childcare Centre, Crossabeg · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. Formula bottles were observed being heated in a microwave. This practice does not comply with safe infant feeding as microwave heating can cause uneven distribution creating hot spots potentially scalding a baby’s mouth. Infection Control: 2. The practices observed during nappy changing were not carried out consistently, in line with service’s infection control policy, posing a risk of contamination. The following was observed: • Children’s hands were not consistently washed after their nappy was changed. • Gloves were not consistently removed after the nappy change before redressing the child. • Staff did not consistently wash their hands after every nappy change. • Staff did not consistently change their aprons between each nappy change. • Children’s individual creams and ointments for use during nappy changing were stored in a communal box and not stored individually in the toddler room. This created a risk of cross contamination as staff did not remove their gloves while accessing them. Administration of Medication: 3. A review of administration of medication forms in two playrooms indicated that written parental consent was not obtained before the administration of medication for all children. This was not in line with the service’s policy for the safe administration of medication. A review of medication books showed inconsistencies in the filing out of the administration record with key details omitted. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The registered provider submitted the following response to address the non-compliances:

Provider's corrective action:

1. The service’s policy on heating formula bottles has now changed. The formula feeding policy was given to staff who are aware of the new procedures. 2. The infection control policy has been amended and circulated to the staff. The steps of the procedure have been reviewed with staff. 3. Parental consent has been updated and put in place. Staff will ensure all details are in place

15 May 2026

Carraig Briste, Enniscorthy · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

Infection Control: 1. The practices observed during nappy changing were not carried out consistently, in line with service’s infection control policy, posing a risk of contamination. The following was observed: • Children’s hands were not washed after their nappy was changed. • Staff did not consistently wash their hands after every nappy change. • Staff did not consistently change their aprons between each nappy change. • The changing mat was not cleaned between each nappy change. • Children’s individual creams and ointments for use during nappy changing were stored in a communal box and not stored individually. This created a risk of cross contamination as staff did not remove their gloves while accessing them. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The registered provider submitted the following response to address the non-compliances:

Provider's corrective action:

Following the inspection, a staff meeting was held to address the infection control non-compliance identified. The meeting focused on reinforcing the service’s Nappy Changing Procedure and Handwashing Policy to ensure all staff clearly understand and consistently adhere to the required infection prevention and control practices. The following actions and improvements were implemented: All changing rooms were thoroughly cleaned, decluttered, and reorganised. PPE equipment are positioned in all changing areas to ensure easy access for staff. Individual creams are now stored separately in each child’s personal drawer alongside their nappies and wipes to minimise the risk of cross-contamination. Disinfectant spray bottles were placed beside all changing units to ensure changing mats and surrounding areas are cleaned and disinfected before and after every use. Children are supported, in an age-appropriate manner, to wash their hands following every nappy change. Staff and children use the “Wash Wash Your Hands” song during handwashing routines to encourage effective handwashing practices in a positive and engaging way. The management will continue to monitor compliance by carrying out spot checks, and the item will be discussed at our next staff meeting

22 April 2026

Askamore Childcare Centre CLG, Gorey · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

Fire Safety: Records were not reflective of the people present in the service. This may compromise effective evacuation should an emergency arise: • The staff roster for the week of 21 April 2026 was not reflective of the adults working within the service that week. This was found non-compliant during the previous inspection in May 2025. • On review of the staff sign in records, not all staff members were signed into the service. This was at variance with the service’s fire safety policy which outlined that staff sign into the service on arrival. This posed a risk in the event of an emergency evacuation as the actual adults present within the service were not documented. Following the last inspection the registered provider stated that staff would sign in and sign out each day and that this would be checked daily by the duty manager. The actions submitted did not prevent recurrence. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

Fire Safety: We are aware that not all staff were filling in their staff rotas correctly. We have now requested that the sign in records are completed correctly each day to reflect the number/name of each staff member in their rooms, this will be signed off by management each day. We have spoken with staff in each room and made them aware that staff rota needs to be completed each day to ensure that correct staff number and names are registered each day

16 April 2026

Explore and Discover Childcare, Tagoat · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The sleep room was cluttered and used for storage of non-sleep related equipment and toys. A number of boxes were stored on top of the presses and posed as potential risk to children and staff if they fell off. Infection Control: 2. The practices observed during nappy changing were not carried out consistently, in line with service’s nappy changing procedure, posing a risk of contamination. The following was observed: • Gloves were not removed after the nappy change before redressing the child. • The lid of the nappy bin was opened by hand instead of the foot pedal • Children’s hands were not washed after their nappy was changed. • Staff did not consistently wash their hands after every nappy change. • Antibacterial wipes used to clean the mat were stored in a lidded box, however the box was contaminated as staff had not removed their gloves or washed their hands after nappy changing before opening the box of wipes. 3. Supervision around toileting was inconsistent. For example, toilets were not flushed and not all children washed their hands after using the toilet. Administration of Medication: 4. A review of administration of medication forms in two playrooms indicated that written parental consent was not obtained before the administration of medication for all children. This was not in line with the service’s policy for the safe administration of medication. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The registered provider submitted the following response to address the non-compliances:

Provider's corrective action:

1. The sleep room has been decluttered including the boxes stored on top of presses. Additional storage shed will be sourced for storage. 2. A more comprehensive nappy changing procedure has been devised and implemented to ensure that all appropriate Infection Control measures are adhered to at all times. This procedure clearly indicates proper use of PPE, hand washing practices for children and staff, and nappy disposal practices and cleaning of nappy-changing area. Staff were informed of the revised nappy changing procedure and are currently implementing it. The service provider will regularly undertake a coaching and supervisory role to ensure all staff continue to implement all infection control measures. 3. A revision of the toileting policy has been completed to include adult supervision to ensure children are able to complete the process unsupervised. Staff are updated on the revised toileting policy to include adult supervision until each child is capable of and competent to complete the toileting process, unsupervised. 4.All staff have been informed of the correct process of securing parent’s written permission prior to administering medication as per the Policy on Administering Medication in the Policies and Procedures Document. Parental consent is in place. The service provider will ensure that all staff are familiar with the Administering Medication Policy and correct procedure involved in administering medication to children at the service, including the securing of Parent’s signature, giving permission prior to each medication being administered

30 March 2026

Clologue Play And Learn, Camolin · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosure for 2 staff members were not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda vetting. Infection Control: 2. A number of staff involved in nappy changing were observed to have long, pointy and painted nails and wore bracelets and rings which posed as a risk to children’s skin and was at variance with good infection control practices. Administration of Medication: 3. A sample of administration of medication record forms were reviewed. A number of the records indicated that written parental consent was not obtained. Safe Sleep: 4. The sleep mats used for the children in the ECCE room were not suitable for children to use for sleep. They consisted of carpet type material and were not conducive to comfortable sleep on the floor

Provider's corrective action:

The registered provider submitted the following response to address the non-compliances: Corrective and Preventive Action 1. The garda vetting has been renewed. We have added a new template to the cover of each file and will ensure we review expiry dates on a regular basis. 2. All staff have received a policy on hand hygiene with regards to nails, an updated staff book, a policy on jewellery and nails. All staff have signed this policy. This policy will be reviewed, and all staff will be checked randomly by management to make they are adhering to the above policy. 3. All consent forms are now signed by parents. All staff have a checklist now attached to the administration of medication book this is the protocol for all admin of medication. 4. We are in the process of finding sleep mats that are suitable to our service and have linked in with various suppliers and early years settings. Once the new sleep mats are in place we will ensure that good sleep practices are followed

27 March 2026

Kids Korner, Newbawn · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

There was a large sand box in the outdoor area which the children were observed digging in on the day of inspection. There was no adequate cover available to cover the sand box when not in use by the children. This posed a risk of cats using the sand box as a litter tray. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

The service has reviewed their Infection Control policy and considered the importance of covering the outside sandbox. Management will perform regular checks on the sandbox and ensure its covered in the evenings. A large Tarpaulin has been purchased cover for the sand box when not in use by the children

10 March 2026

White House Montessori, Rosslare · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years for the emergency contact person. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for the registered provider and the emergency contact person. However, the vetting disclosures for the emergency contact person was not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda vetting. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

The registered provider has submitted evidence that they have commenced the revetting process for the emergency contact person. The registered provider will forward the Garda vetting to the inspector once received. he

26 February 2026

Tir na nOg Childcare Centre, Rosslare Harbour · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosure for one staff member was not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda vetting. Infection Control: 2. The mattresses in the cot room were examined and did not have waterproof covers which increases the risk of cross contamination as the mattresses can’t be adequately cleaned between children. 3. Children and staff were not observed to use soap and water to wash their hands after nappy changing. They were observed to use hand sanitising gel. This practice was discussed with the staff on the day of inspection. It is acknowledged that the staff and children immediately began to wash hands using the warm water, liquid soap and handtowels after each nappy change which is line with the service’s policy. Administration of Medication: 1. A review of administration of medication forms in two playrooms indicated that written parental consent was not obtained before the administration of medication for all children. This was not in line with the service’s policy for the safe administration of medication. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The registered provider submitted the following response:

Provider's corrective action:

: General Safety: 1. Garda vetting was applied for immediately and is now in place. A reminder is now in place to ensure renewal of vetting is done within the timeframe. Infection Control: 1. A supply was purchased immediately are now in place. We will ensure a supply of waterproof mattresses will be kept in stock. 2. All staff were trained in handwashing, and this was implemented immediately. All the staff have reviewed the hand-washing policy, and new staff will be trained. Administration of Medication: 1. All staff have reviewed the medication policy. The manager will monitor the practice.3

11 February 2026

Faylinn Education Ltd, Gorey · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosure for one staff member was not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda vetting. Infection Control: 2. The practices observed during nappy changing were not carried out consistently, in line with service’s nappy changing procedure, posing a risk of contamination. The following was observed: • Gloves were not removed before redressing the child. • The lid of the nappy bin was opened by hand instead of the foot pedal. • Children’s hands were not washed after their nappy was changed. • Staff did not consistently wash their hands after every nappy change. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The registered provider submitted the following response:

Provider's corrective action:

1. The Garda vetting disclosure was applied for prior to the inspection. The disclosure was emailed to the inspectorate. Our IT system has been configured to generate a notification for renewal of Garda vetting. 2. Refresher infection control training has been completed with all staff. Staff have signed acknowledgment confirming understanding of the correct sequencing requirements. Nappy changing practice will form part of ongoing supervisory observation to ensure consistency. Adherence to infection control procedures will be monitored as part of routine governance oversight

28 January 2026

St. Mogue's Community Childcare Centre, Gorey · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The use of window restrictors was not observed on all windows that were easily accessible to children. On the day of inspection window restrictors in the Fern room were not in use posing a potential risk of injury to children. 2. The door to the staff room and kitchen was propped open with a large water refill container. There was a trailing flex of two kettles, and knives on low shelving units which were easily accessible to children if they entered the kitchen. This posed a significant safety risk to children. It is acknowledged that on the day the door to both the staff room and kitchen were closed after this was highlighted by the early years inspector. Infection Control: 3. Toilet doors were propped open in a number of the playrooms, which poses as a risk of cross contamination

Provider's corrective action:

The service submitted the following response to address the non-compliances: Corrective and Preventive Action A memo has been issued to staff that the window restrictor is to be in use at all times when the window is open. Staff were instructed verbally by the childcare manager that the staff room door was to remain closed at all times. A memo was issued to all staff outlining this as well. Amendments have been made to policy No. 8 fire & safety prevention and the amended policy issued to staff. Both the childcare manager and assistant manager will ensure that these instructions are carried out at all times Staff were instructed on the day of Inspection that doors leading into the toilets from the playrooms are to be closed at all times, this was followed up by the issuing of a memo regarding the non-compliance. A notice was placed on toilet doors that they are to be kept closed at all times. Amendment has been made to policy No. 6 and the policy issued to staff. The childcare manager and assistant manager will ensure that these instructions are carried out at all times

26 January 2026

Higgy’s House Creche and Montessori, Gorey · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

Infection Control: 1. Toilet doors were propped open in the service which poses as a risk of cross contamination. Safe Sleep: The following sleep practices observed on the day were at variance with safe sleep guidelines: 2. The pine room felt cold and the temperature was recorded at 15.5℃ at 12:15 before the children were placed to sleep. The manager advised that the heating was not correctly operating in this room. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The registered provider submitted the following response to address the non-compliances:

Provider's corrective action:

1. Doors to the toilets will remain closed/shut at all times. Staff have been notified of this by manager and a meeting with each staff member individually. 2. We hired a heater immediately to heat the Toddler room till the heating was fixed. We also purchased a thermometer for the room to monitor the temperature

14 January 2026

Paisti Beaga CLG, Broadway · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosure for one staff member was not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda vetting. Infection Control: 2. There were no disposable hand towels available for hygienic handwashing. Communal cloth towels were used by the children and staff which posed as a risk of cross infection. 3. The second smaller first aid box was covered in mould which was a health risk. Administration of Medication: 4. Prescribed medication stored on the premises for a child was out of date. A system was not in place by the service to ensure that medication was checked on a regular basis. 5. A parental consent form for the administration of medication was not available for two children. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The service submitted the following response to address the non-compliances:

Provider's corrective action:

: 1. The staff Garda vetting that needed to be renewed have been sent in for renewal. Staff Garda vetting will be renewed every 3 years. A record of date renewed will be kept on file to keep note of when renewal is needed. 2. Our hand towel delivery has been delivered, and the children and staff are using disposable hand towels for hand washing and drying. We will ensure the delivery comes on time going forward. 3. Our first-hand box has been cleaned and reorganised. Our travel first aid box that we use yearly for school tour. We will keep on top of our cleaning and first aid storage. 4. New EpiPens have been brought in by parents that are in date. Expiry dates have been recorded to ensure staff are aware of they need to be replaced. Dates will be checked regularly. 5. A parental consent form was signed which is attached to the child’s EpiPen storage box and available on the day. A more detailed consent form was drawn up and parents have signed this

12 January 2026

Little Munchkins Childcare, Fethard On Sea · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

The Garda vetting for the registered provider had not been renewed in the past 3 years as required in compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice to renew Garda vetting every 3 years for all staff and registered providers. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

The registered provider will ensure their Garda vetting is renewed every three years going forward

7 January 2026

Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre Ltd, Enniscorthy · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. 2. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosure for one staff member was not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda vetting. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The service has submitted the following response to address the non-compliances:

Provider's corrective action:

The service has carried out the re-vetting for the staff member and have received their vetting disclosure. We have set up a document with all expiry dates for staff members vetting and will we review every three years to ensure re-vetting is done before expiration dates

10 December 2025

Bumbles Bees Creche, Whiterock Hill · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

Infection Control: The following infection control risks were identified in the children’s sanitary accommodation area: 1. The waste bin was not foot pedal operated. Children had to open the bin lid by hand. The use of non-foot pedal operated bins in the service was also identified on inspection on 02 December 2022. Preventative actions stated by the registered provider did not prevent a reoccurrence. 2. One of the children’s toilets available had no toilet seat. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

Infection Control: 1 & 2 The toilet seat has now been refitted, and the toilet is fully operational. A foot-pedal operated, lidded bin has been installed in the children’s bathroom. A weekly environmental and infection control checklist has been introduced and is completed by the room leader and reviewed by the Registered Provider. A monthly management walk-through is now conducted to review infection control and hygiene equipment, including waste bins and toilet fittings, to ensure any issues are identified and addressed promptly. The Infection Control Policy has been updated

26 November 2025

Boolavogue Play and Learn Playschool, Enniscorthy · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosure for one staff member was not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda vetting. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The following response was submitted by the registered provider:

Provider's corrective action:

: Garda vetting was applied for immediately in respect of the one staff member. We will ensure going forward that all staff have their vetting renewed within the timeframe.ag was

19 November 2025

Little Acorns Montessori, Ferns · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: Garda vetting was available for four staff members. However, one of these vetting disclosures were not dated within the previous three years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice ‘EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting’. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

General Safety: The garda vetting that was necessary was in the registered providers second early years service. In future all files will be double checked that the correct staff vetting is in the correct file

22 October 2025

Kinderland Montessori, Bunclody · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: Areas of the service which contained hazards were accessible to children, for example: 1. The kitchen door remained open during the inspection and potentially accessible to the children. Drawers and presses in the kitchen contained knives and a kettle. 2. The door to the staff toilet was left open for long periods on the day of inspection. Staff stored their personal belongings such as coats and handbags in the staff toilet with a number of bags left on the floor that were open and potentially accessible to children. Infection Control: The following practices observed were at variance with good hand hygiene practices: 1. Children were not observed to have their hands washed after nappy changing. 2. Staff members were not observed to wash their hands after each nappy change. 3. Staff were not observed to change their aprons or clean the changing mat between each nappy changes. 4. The toilet doors were left open for much of the day including during nappy changes which poses as a risk of cross contamination. 5. Children from the preschool room all washed their hands after outdoor play but used a communal towel to dry their hands which can lead to cross contamination. 6. Staff were observed to use their hands to put soiled items in the bin and not use the foot pedal mechanism. A number of inconsistences in practice were observed and at variance with the service’s infection control policy and procedures: 7. Two soft sofas in the Tiny Tots room were marked and torn, therefore not allowing for adequate cleaning which posed as risk of cross contamination. 8. Attention to personal hygiene of the children was not observed during the inspection. Children’s faces were not wiped after eating and runny nosed were not cleaned. 9. Two large mats in the preschool room were visibly dirty and stained. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The registered provider submitted the following response to address the non-compliance:

Provider's corrective action:

General Safety: 1&2: The kitchen door and staff toilets has sign for door to remain closed, and locked. This was discussed with staff at meeting. Infection Control: 1 -9: Infection control practices were revised by all staff at a staff meeting. Hand washing policy, apron and glove practice, importance of doors of changing area to be closed were reviewed with staff. The nappy bin was replaced. Closer attention to the child on hygiene practice of face washing also discussed with staff. The sofa in Tiny Tots room was replaced. The mats were replaced with machine washable mats

14 October 2025

Discoveryland Creche and Montessori, Wexford · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

The registered provider failed to ensure that some actions submitted through the CAPA process following the previous inspection in April 2025 were implemented. Compliance had not been adequately sustained to safeguard children’s health, safety and welfare. Regulation 23 was also non-compliant on inspection in 2024. The registered provider did not ensure that effective measures were in place to mitigate or monitor potential risks as follows: Risk Management 1. Corrective actions from the previous inspection in April 2025 in relation to the completion of accident and incident records were not implemented. The registered provider had stated that a regular check would be done on all records and that , going forward, it would be mandatory for parents to take the white copy. From the sample of 41 records reviewed, the following was noted: a. Five records were not signed by the child’s parent or guardian. b. The service’s accident and incident policy outlined that the parent or guardian received a copy of the record. However, on review of the accident and incident records, the copies for the parent on two records were intact. c. Seven accident and incident records were not signed by the staff member. d. Twenty-five records did not include the child’s date of birth. 2. The person in charge provided the inspectors with a health and safety checklist which included a daily review of all accident and incident records to ensure completion. This record was not available for the Juniors room. These health and safety checklists had been filled to indicate that daily checks had taken place for the weeks of 15th and 19th of September. However, the corresponding accident and incident records were not fully completed on those dates. 3. A risk assessment for the outdoor area was on display in the ECCE room, and it was marked as completed on day 1 and 2. On this risk assessment, it requested that ‘all broken toys/equipment are removed’. Furthermore, in discussion with staff members, they outlined that they carry out a visual risk assessment before they use the outdoor area. However, during day 2 of the inspection, the inspectors observed the following hazards in the outdoor area: • The shelving unit within the sheltered area posed a risk of injury to a child as it was unanchored and unsteady. • The flooring in the plastic playhouse was uneven and posed a trip risk for a child. The actions submitted by the registered provider through their CAPA response have not been implemented to mitigate risk. 4. The actions from the previous inspection in April 2025 in relation to the placement of furniture were not implemented and this continued to pose a risk of injury to children i n the Juniors room. On day two, there were eight children aged 1 to 3 years present. Staff members had stacked the children’s chairs during the morning and afternoon free play time. This was found on the previous inspection on 29 and 30 April 2025, and the registered provider stated that chairs would be stacked no more than 2 high going forward. This continues to pose an increased risk of injury to a child if they attempt to climb or pull them down. 5. The actions from the previous inspection in April 2025 were not implemented with regard to staff members being aware of the service’s healthy eating policy and procedures. On day 1, at snack time, a staff member provided a child aged 2 years with their lunchbox containing whole grapes. This practice was at variance with the service's healthy eating policy, which stated that grapes must be cut. This posed a potential risk of choking for the child. The inspector intervened to request that the staff member cut the grapes for the child. 6. Corrective actions about sleep infection control practices were not sufficient to mitigate risk following the last inspection. The registered provider submitted supporting documentation which demonstrated that staff were asked to read the service’s infection control and sleep policy. However, the following was observed on inspection: a. The policy outlined that all beds would be covered by a sheet. The registered provider had stated that bed linen was provided for each bed in each room and that regular checks of proper usage of the linen and bed will be carried out. However, the following was noted in the Pre-Montessori room: • On day one, none of the five children were provided with a bed sheet. • On day two, six of the ten children in the Pre-Montessori room were not provided with a bed sheet. Three children slept directly on low-level beds and three children slept directly on plastic mats. b. The sleep equipment was not cleaned before or after use within the Pre-Montessori room. On day 2, four children were provided with floor mats for sleep. These had been used for other purposes that morning, during which children were observed walking across them. This practice was at variance with the actions submitted by the registered provider, who stated that each bed is assigned to a child and they are cleaned after use. c. The service policy stated that sleeping mats were placed 50cm apart. On day 2, the sleep equipment was positioned less than 50cm apart for nine of the ten children. d. On day 1 and 2 of the inspection, children within the Juniors room, Pre-Montessori room and ECCE were observed to sleep with their shoes on. 7. The actions from the previous inspection in April 2025 in relation to safe sleep were not implemented adequately to mitigate risk. Sleep checks were not consistently carried out or recorded by staff members. It is acknowledged that safe sleep records were available for the children sleeping in Baby, Juniors and Pre-Montessori room. However, on day 1 at 2 pm, a child was observed to be asleep in the ECCE room. The inspector did not observe 10-minute sleep checks occurring and requested the sleep record. The staff member confirmed that they were not maintaining a record. The staff member was requested by the inspector to begin to carry out 10-minute observations and maintain a record. The registered provider stated that the importance of physically checking a child when sleeping was reiterated to all staff and that it would be discussed at staff meetings. However, no staff meetings had taken place since December 2024. This posed a potential safety risk to children. 8. The actions provided after the previous inspection in April 2025 in relation to cross-infection in the Baby room were not implemented. The registered provider stated through their CAPA response that they had replaced the cushions in the Baby room. However, the cushions remained worn and torn in places which did not allow for adequate cleaning. Administration of Medication: 9. The actions from the previous inspection in April 2025 in relation to the completion of administration of medication records were not implemented. From a sample of thirty-three administration of medication records, parental signatures were not evident on seven of the records. This was at variance with the service policy which outlined that the service informed the parent and/or guardian at collection time, who then signed the record. The registered provider through their CAPA response stated that this would be discussed at staff meetings. However, no staff meetings had taken place since December 2024. This posed a risk to children’s health as parents may not have been informed of medication which was administered to their child. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

Risk Management 1. The registered provider submitted the following actions in response to the non-compliance identified regarding the completion of accident and incident records: a. All records have been completed. The registered provider has assigned a staff member to check book daily and report to manager if a staff member needs to be shown again how to fill in properly. This was discussed at meeting. Staff member will liaise with management to keep control of this. b. This has been corrected. The registered provider has assigned a staff member to check books daily and report to manager if not being completed properly. Manager will speak to staff member. c. Staff have been spoken too on the importance of making sure parents get copy. This was discussed at meeting 24 November 2025 and staff were shown again how to fill in properly. A staff member has been assigned to checking books on a daily basis and report to management. d. A staff member has been assigned to check the books on a daily to ensure all is correct. Registered provider and manager will speak with staff member if in breach of non-compliance. 2. Paper work was discussed at meeting and manager is checking daily. Staff have been spoken to make sure they are aware of how to fill in daily sheets and to be aware of what they are signing. Manager will review the paper work daily and speak to staff member assigned to checking books daily. 3. The shelving unit has been removed and tiles put down to replace the piece the children played with. Management will keep check of the outdoor area with risk assessment. The registered provider will do a weekly walk around with risk assessment. 4. All chairs are stacked two high and the manager will do a visual check daily. 5. Staff in all rooms have been reminded to cut up the grapes if the parent has not done so. This was discussed at staff meeting 24 November 2025. Manager does a visual spot check. The registered provider has spoken at meeting about the dangers of the grapes not being cut up. 6. The registered provider submitted the following actions in response to the findings regarding the ineffective infection control measures in place: a. The girls in question were spoken too and reminded that the sheets were there to be used. There is enough sheets for all the beds. The service has changed the junior room and pre-montessori room so that one is a sleeping room. So each bed has a sheet and blanket to cover all sleeping children. This is a visual check by manager daily. b. This topic was discussed at the meeting 24 November 2025 all beds are to be cleaned once used. This is over seen by manager. c. Beds have been spaced 50cm apart in the room. The registered provider has spoken to all girls and helped spaced out room to allow 50cm apart. This is overseen by manager. d. The service will monitor this on a daily basis and it was also covered in the meeting 24 November 2025. Registered provider and manager covered this at the meeting and will be overseen visually by the manager. 7. Sleep records are kept in the ECCE room and all staff working in this room have been made aware of the importance of keeping these. A sleep record was started on the inspection and we will continue to do so. The manager is checking on a daily basis. 8. ALL the cushions in the baby room have been replaced. Registered provider will oversee a quality check weekly. Administration of Medication: 9. Again staff have been spoken to about the importance of this practice. All records have been corrected. This was discussed at the meeting. A staff member has been assigned to check the books on a daily basis and report to manager who will then talk to staff if needed

9 October 2025

Little Scholars Montessori, Wexford · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

The front door was open on arrival of the inspector. This posed a risk of unauthorised people entering the service and children leaving the service unsupervised
Perishable foods provided by parents were not stored in the fridge. This measure is required to prevent cross infection in the service. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

The unlocked door was an error on the day. Staff now ensure the door remains locked and is checked during the time the children are in the service
The healthy eating policy states staff will store perishable food in a cool designated area on the arrival of the children

24 September 2025

Bright Beginnings, Enniscorthy · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosure for one staff member was not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting. Infection Control: A number of inconsistences in practice were observed and at variance with the service’s infection control policy and procedures: 2. The inspectors were not assured that soothers were appropriately washed and sterilised in the service. 3. The inspectors were not assured that bottle warmers water was changed as frequently as required. Water left for extended periods increase the risk of bacteria growth. 4. The staff stored their personal belongings such as coats and handbags in the nappy changing areas which posed as a risk of cross contamination. The following practices observed were at variance with good hand hygiene practices: 5. Children in three playrooms were not observed to have their hands washed after nappy changing which is not in line with the service’s nappy changing policy. 6. Staff members were observed to wash their hands in the sink in the playroom after nappy changing and not in the sink in the toilet area which posed a risk of cross contamination. 7. A staff member was observed not to wash their hands after nappy changing in the baby room. 8. The children in the pink flamingo’s room did not have their hands washed before eating their main meal. 9. Staff were observed to use their hands to put soiled items in the bin and not use the foot pedal mechanism. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

1. Garda vetting was applied for and returned on the 25/10/2025. We will ensure all staff are re-vetted in advance of the expiry date. 2. The soothers will be sterilised every evening in the microwave for 3 mins in a steam pod. 3. Bottle warmers will have fresh water used for every bottle heated. Staff have been advised on bacteria growth. 4. The staff now store their belongings in the staff room. 5,6,7,8. All the staff have received extra training on infection control and has been reminded to read the centres policies on nappy changing and hand hygiene. Reminders of this policy has been renewed and placed in all nappy changing areas. 9. The nappy bins have pedal functions, and the staff have been advised to use these pedals going forward. All staff have received extra training on infection control and was reminded to read the centres policies on nappy changing and hand hygiene

12 September 2025

Little Giggles Playschool, Enniscorthy · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for three staff members, however the vetting disclosure for two staff members were not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda vetting. Infection Control: 1. A number of inconsistences during nappy changing were observed and at variance with the service’s infection control measures: • Children were not observed to have their hands washed after nappy changing which is not in line with the service’s nappy changing policy. • Staff were not observed to consistently wash their hands between nappy changes. • Staff did not wear aprons during nappy changes. • The changing mat was not cleaned between all nappy changes. 2. A number of the children’s lunch boxes were observed stored in their school bags and not in the fridge. Safe Sleep: 1. There were no written records maintained to document sleeping children in the service. 2. There was no thermometer available to monitor the temperatures in the playrooms and areas identified for children to sleep. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The registered provider submitted the following response:

Provider's corrective action:

General Safety: 1. Updated Garda vetting is now on file. An annual review of staff files will be carried out. Infection Control: 1. Nappy Changing procedures have been highlighted with staff. A copy of procedures displayed on the wall, next to the changing area. All Equipment is ready and available with easy access. At a staff meeting a review of the nappy changing procedures was reviewed. 2. We will ensure on a daily basis, in line with the healthy eating policy to store all foods/lunch boxes in the correct manner at the required temperature. We will check bags. Safe Sleep: 1.Sleep record book are available and recorded in when sleeping/rest occurs. 2.Thermometers are in every room and checked daily and every 10 minutes when child is at rest

11 September 2025

Erika’s Fairy Wood, Gorey · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosures for four staff members were not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda vetting. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

General Safety: Garda vetting disclosures were applied for. The service will ensure that Garda vetting is renewed within the timeframe going forward

17 July 2025

Killegney Early Years, Enniscorthy · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosure for one staff member was not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda vetting

Provider's corrective action:

The registered provider submitted the following response: Corrective and Preventive Action The staff member with expired Garda vetting has since retired from working in early years. A system is now in place in our staff files that highlights expiring Garda vetting, this re-vetting process will take place in January of every year

4 July 2025

Jungle Box Childcare Centre FDYS, Wexford · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosure for 1 staff member was not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting. Infection Control: A number of practices observed during the inspection were at variance with the infection control policy in place in the service and the inspectors were not assured that consistent and effective infection control practices were in place throughout the service. The following was observed during the inspection: 1. Staff involved in nappy changing were also involved in food preparation. This practice is not considered best practice in a preschool setting. Best practice requires that preschool staff who are changing nappies should not also serve food this measure is to prevent cross infection in a service. 2. Children’s hands were not consistently washed after nappy changing which posed a risk of cross infection in the service. 3. The inspectors were not assured that the staff members had washed their hands or sanitised the tables prior to serving the food. Administration of Medication: 1. The administration of medication practice was not in line with the service’s medication policy which states parents should sign a parental consent form prior to all medication being administered. It is acknowledged that staff request parents to sign the administration of medication record, but do not fill out the medication consent form as per the policy. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

Renewed garda vetting is now available on file in the service for the staff member. The manager will ensure all garda vetting for staff is renewed every 3 years as required. Infection Control: A memo was sent to all staff following the inspection which included the following:
Staff who were changing nappies were requested not to serve food also. This is to prevent cross infection in the service
All staff were reminded to wash children’s hands after nappy changing as stated in the services nappy changing policy
Staff were reminded to wash their hands and to sanitise the tables prior to serving food in the service. The managers in the service will support and monitor staff carrying out these practices in the service going forward. Administration of Medication: The administration of medication consent form has been updated. Staff have been reminded to ask parents to sign the form to give their consent prior to all medication being administered

27 June 2025

Teach Spraoi Community Preschool, Taghmon · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosures for two staff members were not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

A vetting disclosure for one of the staff members is now available on file in the service. The vetting disclosures for the second staff member is in progress and will be placed on file and sent to the inspector when received. The manager has initiated a checking system to inform them when Garda vetting is required to be renewed. This is in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting

26 June 2025

Cleariestown Community Playschool, Cleariestown · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosures for 3 staff members were not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 renewal of Garda vetting. It is acknowledged that the registered provider had begun the process of renewing the vetting for the three staff and showed the inspector the date of the application for renewal

Provider's corrective action:

The registered provider submitted details of the Garda vetting applications for the three staff. Going forward the registered provider will ensure that Garda vetting is renewed before the expiry dates on the disclosures

19 June 2025

Rainbow Childcare, Wexford · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. Room temperatures within the baby room and ECCE room were recorded as exceeding the recommended ambient room temperature of 18 to 22℃. The following room temperatures were recorded: In the baby room the temperature was 23.4℃. at 11:35. At 11:55 the temperature was 23.8℃. Two fans were present in the room. In the ECCE room the temperature was 25.1℃ at 12:50. 2. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosures for two staff members were not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting. Infection Control: A number of practices observed during the inspection were at variance with the infection control policy and the inspector was not assured that consistent and effective infection control practices were in place throughout the service. The following was observed during the inspection: 3. Children’s hands were not consistently washed after nappy changing in the baby room and waddler room. 4. Staff in the baby room did not wash their hands before helping children with feeding. 5. Staff members in the waddler room did not consistently wash their hands after nappy changes. 6. Staff were observed not to wear aprons during nappy changes in the waddler room. 7. There was no hand soap in the hand dispenser in the waddler room nappy changing area on both days of inspection which impedes effective handwashing. 8. On day two of inspection, there was no hand towels in the nappy changing area of the waddler room which impedes effective handwashing. 9. Staff in the waddler room were observed to leave the nappy changing area still wearing gloves that were used to carry out nappy changing. 10. Toys were stored in the waddler room toilet which poses as risk of cross contamination. 11. Mats and soft toys in the waddler room were stained. 12. Staff were observed to stack chairs after eating. This practice posed an increased risk of injury to a child in the event that they attempted to climb or pull them down. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The registered provider submitted the following response:

Provider's corrective action:

: General Safety: 1. Thermometers are located in the rooms. New black out blinds have been purchased. Fans are in place. Measures are taken when necessary to reduce the temperature. 2. Garda vetting disclosures are on file. Infection control: Staff have received further training regarding our infection control policy including hand washing and nappy changing procedures. A checklist has been drawn up for supplies of soap and paper handtowels available for use in each room to be checked and signed daily. Toys are no longer stored in any cupboard particularly in the nappy changing areas. A weekly rota has been drawn up for the washing of soft toys and mats. Staff have been instructed not to stack chairs with safety in mind

10 June 2025

Maple Tree Nursery, New Ross · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. Two staff were observed on their mobile phones in the outdoor area when supervising children. This posed a risk to the safety of the children as staff are required to supervise the children at all times when in their care. One staff member was observed looking down at her phone for 5 minutes without looking up at the children in her care. 2. The placement of furniture posed a risk of injury to children. Staff members stacked the children’s chairs during the morning and afternoon free play time. This posed an increased risk of injury to a child in the event that they attempted to climb or pull them down. Infection control: 3. A staff member was observed to wash children’s hands after nappy changing while still wearing the gloves used during the nappy changing. This posed as an increased risk to cross infection. 4. A soother that was dropped on the floor by a child was not cleaned or sterilised before being given back to the child. 5. The two nurturing chairs in the nursery room were not cleaned and maintained. One chair was torn and frayed, and the second chair was visibly stained. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

General Safety: 1. Staff have been reminded of the policy in the service which requests staff not to use their mobile phone when on duty in the service. Staff are now requested to sign they have read and understood this policy which is in place in the service. 2. All staff have been instructed not to stack chairs unless it is for an organised activity or cleaning. Infection control: 3. This practice is not part of the nappy changing policy in place in the service. Staff have been reminded of this policy which is on display throughout the service. 4. The steriliser has been reinstated into the nursery room and is used daily. 5. The torn and frayed chair has been removed; the other chair has been steam cleaned

21 May 2025

Kickstart Education + Childcare, Gorey · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosures for 3 staff members were not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda vetting. Infection Control: 2. There was no warm water for handwashing. The water was checked at 11:00 and 12:00 and remained cold. Staff when speaking with the inspector stated that they routinely do not have warm water unless the immersion is turned on. The daily check list for the indoor premises did not have a prompt to remind staff to ensure there was warm water. The lack of warm water is at variance with the service’s hand hygiene policy. It is acknowledged that when the water was rechecked on a third occasion at 13:00 the water was warm. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The registered provider submitted the following response:

Provider's corrective action:

1.Garda vetting disclosures are now on file for the three staff. The staff files were reorganised and will be reviewed regularly to ensure compliance. 2.A staff member has been designated to ensure that the hot water is turned on and ready each morning. It was added to morning check list

5 May 2025

An Naoinra, Summerhill · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosures for 3 staff members were not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting. Action submitted by the Registered Provider General Safety: The registered provider submitted the following response:

Provider's corrective action:

Garda vetting was applied for in respect of the staff members. The provider will ensure that renewed Garda vetting for all staff is completed in early 2028 prior to the expiry date

8 April 2025

The Mill Montessori, Enniscorthy · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures on file for all staff members, however the vetting disclosure for one staff member was not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The registered provider submitted the following response:

Provider's corrective action:

: Garda vetting was applied for immediately for the staff member. A form has been added to individual files as a reminder to ensure Garda vetting is renewed on time in the future

3 April 2025

First Friends Michael Street Community Pre-school, New Ross · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

Garda vetting was available for all staff. However, there was a vetting disclosure for one staff member which was not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence with the recent regulation notice which require all staff working directly with preschool children to have their Garda vetting renewed every 3 years. It is acknowledged the inspector received confirmation that the registered provider applied to have the Garda vetting renewed for the staff member shortly after the inspection. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

The Garda vetting was sent to the inspector shortly after the inspection and is now in place on file in the service. The registered provider will ensure all Garda vetting is renewed every 3 years in the future. The garda

6 February 2025

Caroline's Playschool, Drinagh · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. There were Garda vetting disclosures available for three persons, however two of these vetting disclosures were not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda vetting. Action submitted by the Registered Provider General Safety:

Provider's corrective action:

The registered provider provided the following response: Garda vetting has been applied for and pending return of disclosure

22 January 2025

Lollitots Community Child CLG, Rosslare · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. Garda vetting was available for all staff members. However, 4 staff members vetting disclosures were not dated within the previous 3 years in line with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

Garda vetting now on file. The service is updating and reviewing the staff folder annually, so these vetting disclosures are always in date

16 January 2025

Bri Beag Childcare, Enniscorthy · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

Infection Control: A number of practices observed were at variance with the infection control policy in the service and ineffective for infection control purposes as detailed below. 1. The nappy changing practices observed in the Ladybird and Bumblebee rooms were inadequate on the day of inspection to prevent the spread of infection and cross contamination as evidenced by the following: • Children’s hands were not consistently washed after their nappy change. • Staff member’s hands were not consistently washed after nappy changes. • Staff members were observed on a number of occasions during nappy changes to redress the child wearing the same used glove from the nappy change. 2. Mouthed toys were not removed for cleaning in the Ladybird room. Staff informed the inspector that the toys in this room are washed twice weekly. This poses a risk of cross contamination in the room. 3. In the Butterfly and Caterpillar rooms, the entrance doors to the sanitary area were propped open risking a spread of infection. Toilets were unflushed and children were not observed closely enough to ensure effective handwashing on return from play in the outdoor area before having their snacks. This posed a risk of spread of infection. 4. The small soft sofas in the care rooms were torn and posed as risk of cross infection as they could not be adequately cleaned. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

Infection Control: 1. The nappy changing routine has been updated since the inspection and staff have been updated on the policy. 2. The mouthed toys policy has been emailed to staff. 3. The Butterfly and Caterpillar rooms will ensure doors to bathroom areas are kept closed. The staff members in each room will appropriately supervise children when using the facilities. The team are using the Safefood handwashing resources ‘Rufus’. 4. Small sofa was removed, and a new rug will be bought with cushions and blankets to soften the ‘quiet/hygge corner’. An upgrade of all the rooms is in process

12 December 2024

Rainbow Childcare, Wexford · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every three years. Garda vetting was available for all staff members. However, three staff members vetting disclosures were not dated within the previous three years in adherence to the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 Renewal of Garda Vetting. 2. Prescription medication for a staff member who no longer worked in the service was left stored in the first aid box in the wobbler room. 3. The linoleum flooring in ECCE Room 2 was lifting, creating a trip hazard which posed a risk of injury to children and staff. 4. A small two step ladder was used in the toddler nappy changing room for children to reach the sink to wash their hands. On a number of occasions children were observed to almost fall from the steps as it was not steady and unsuitable for young children in a childcare facility. Infection Control: A number of practices observed during the inspection were at variance with the infection control policy in place in the service and the inspectors were not assured that consistent and effective infection control practices were in place throughout the service. The following was observed during the inspection: 1. Children’s hands were not consistently washed after their nappy changing in the baby and wobbler room. 2. Staff members in the baby room did not consistently wash their hands after nappy changes. 3. The linoleum flooring in ECCE Room 2 was lifting, creating a trip hazard which posed a risk of injury to children and staff. 4. Staff and children in the ECCE room 3 were not observed to wash their hands before eating their afternoon snack. 5. A staff member in the baby room was observed during the nappy change to repeatedly open the pedal bin with their hand. This posed a risk of cross infection. 6. A staff member in the baby room was observed to redress a child wearing the same soiled glove from the nappy change. 7. One of the changing mats in the toddler room appeared to be stained and dirty. The mat could not be effectively cleaned posing as a risk of cross contamination. 8. Children’s hands in the baby room and wobbler room were not washed before dinner posing a risk of cross contamination. 9. Staff were observed at snack times handing food directly to children from the serving platter. The staff placed the food directly onto the table. The inspectors were not assured that the staff members had washed their hands or sanitised the tables prior to serving the food. 10. On the day of inspection in the baby and wobbler room, there was no system to manage the cleaning of mouthed toys and equipment. Children were observed repeatedly mouthing toys which were not removed for cleaning after use and subsequently mouthed by other children, posing a risk of cross contamination. 11. A child in the baby room was observed to have their soother attached to their bib. This was not removed when the child was crawling on the floor, dragging the soother along the floor. It was not removed to be sterilised although there is a sterilising facility for soothers in the room. 12. Bottle preparation practices observed on the day of inspection were not in line with safe food practices. Staff in both the baby and the wobbler room both in discussion with the inspector and on observation, heated children’s bottles in the microwave. This may cause a risk of burning to the child. 13. In the baby room, the adult chair used to comfort children was torn, exposing the inside material. This posed a risk of cross contamination as it can’t be adequately cleaned. 14. Toilets for use by children attending ECCE rooms 2 and 3 were not adequately supervised. Toilets were unflushed and toilet roll was not replaced for use by the children in the afternoon. Bins in the toilets were overflowing with used hand towels. 15. There was no warm water available in some of the sinks to support effective handwashing practices. 16. The steps in the toddler room nappy changing area were torn and beginning to collapse, therefore no longer suitable for use. 17. There was a foul smell in the toddler room toilet, the toilets were not flushed. 18. Aprons used for nappy changing were of poor quality and tore easily when staff put them on. 19. There was no soap, hand towels or warm water in the toilet in the ECCE 1 room. 20. The window in the baby sleep room was visibly dirty with black mould and dust. 21. There was no foot pedal bin in the toddler room nappy changing area. Safe Sleep: 1. The bulbs in the sleep rooms between the baby room and wobbler room were not working. This meant that staff could not effectively check the children as the only natural light to the room was blocked by a curtain. 2. Sleep room two was the only room of the sleep rooms to have a thermometer to monitor the temperature as children were sleeping. 3. There was loud music playing on the corridor of the sleep rooms. In discussion with staff they mentioned that this music is meant as white noise and to calm the children. In being so loud, this poses a risk to the staff being unable to hear a child in between sleep checks. 4. In the toddler sleep room, the curtains were too long and were draped over two sleep beds. Fire Safety: 1. A review of documentation evidenced that fire drills are not occurring monthly in the service. The last recorded fire drill was documented to have taken place on 30 August 2024. Not practising regular fire drills can hinder the safe evacuation of children and staff in the event of an emergency. 2. Two emergency exit doors from ECCE Room 1 were obstructed and congested with play equipment on the day of inspection leading to a risk of safety in the event of an emergency evacuation. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The registered provider submitted the following response to address the non-compliances:

Provider's corrective action:

General Safety: 1. In date Garda vetting is in place for all staff. 2. Staff medication is not to be stored in first aid boxes but rather in their own lockers which are in our staff room. 3. The linoleum flooring in room 2 is being replaced with carpet which will create a more homely environment for the children to play on. 4. A new step is in place in the toddler room sink. Infection Control: 1,2,3,7. The handwashing policy is now on display in all our childcare rooms. Management have brought staff attention to the policy and carry out regular spot checks to ensure that the policy is being adhered to. 4. The bin in the nappy change area has been replaced with a more sturdy pedal bin. 5. The nappy changing policy has been updated and is on display in all nappy changing areas. 6. There was no rip in the nappy changing mat, and it was sterilised between each use. 8. Staff now make a more social occasion of each meal time, creating a more homely environment, including using tableware at all mealtimes. 9. The mouthed toy policy has been updated, is on display in all rooms and staff have been reminded to keep all toys clean and sterilised. 10. Children’s soothers are removed on arrival in the setting and are only used when needed. No child has a soother attached to their bib. 11. Bottle preparation and heating policy has been updated, and parents have been informed of the requirements. We have replaced the old bottle warmer, and the microwave has been removed from the waddler room. 12. A new chair has been purchased for nursing babies and young children. 13,16,18. A new checklist is in place and staff have been instructed to check for soap, hand towels and toilet paper supplies, the cleanliness, toilets being flushed and the bins empty, they now sign the checklist each hour. 14,18. The immersion heater has been checked, and warm water is readily available throughout the service. 15. New stairs are on order from WESCO to replace the old worn-out steps. 17. New supply of stronger plastic aprons is available for use when changing nappies. 19. The window in the sleep room has been thoroughly cleaned. 20. There was a sturdy foot pedal bin in the toddler room nappy changing room. Safe Sleep: The hallway between sleeping rooms is well lit to allow for proper checking of sleeping children, and each sleep room is dimly lit by the electric thermometers. 2. All sleep rooms now have electric thermometers, and the old wall mounded ones have been disposed of. 3. There is no music being played between the sleep areas. 4. The curtain in the toddler sleep room has been removed as a blind is in place. Fire Safety: 1. Fire drills had been carried out monthly until August, however, the fire officer did not carry out any in September as the service had a large number of new children, there was one in October that was not documented. The fire safety officer has been instructed to resume the monthly fire drills and checks on emergency exits. 2. The emergency exit door in ECCE 1 has been cleared and staff have been asked to ensure it remains clear at all times. Policies are on display throughout the creche regarding fire safety, safe sleep, infection control and general safety. Spot checks are carried out regularly. One member of staff responsible for ensuring all the cleaning is carried out thoroughly and regularly and the cleaner has been given a new updated list to be carried out each day. Staff have been informed that they must bring to the attention of management, any cleaning or maintenance issue that arises in the care, sleep or changing rooms

29 November 2024

Little Treasures Montessori Preschool and Afterschool Club, Enniscorthy · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

The service had not demonstrated compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice to renew Garda vetting every 3 years for 1 staff member. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

An application to renew the staff members Garda vetting was sent immediately following the inspection. The renewed Garda vetting is now available on file in the service. The manager has initiated a check list involving all staff files to ensure the service is alerted when the staff members vetting is due to be renewed in line with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice to renew Garda vetting every 3 years for staff members. Evidence received The inspector received a copy of the staff members renewed Garda vetting. Summary Comment The response and evidence submitted is satisfactory to meet the requirements of the The Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016

28 November 2024

Little Treasures Crèche, Enniscorthy · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

Infection control
The nappy changing area attached to the explorer room needed to be organised to prevent cross contamination during the procedure. Gloves, aprons, disposable hand towels, and paper towels to clean the mat after the procedure were all stored in a haphazard manner which necessitated the staff handling them excessively during the procedure. This posed a risk of cross infection in the service
There was no warm water to support handwashing flowing from the tap in the nappy changing area attached to the explorer room. Fire Safety
Monthly fire drill practices were not in line with the Fire Safety in Pre-Schools 1999 guidance document. The document recommends that fire drills should include a monthly complete evacuation of the children from the premises to a place of safety in the open air. The service carries out evacuation drills for each room in the service when a complete evacuation is recommended as best practice. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

The manager is currently sourcing a unit to store all nappy changing equipment to ensure the best practice in infection control is maintained in the service
A plumber was commissioned to replace the taps in the nappy changing area. Fire Safety
A fire drill which includes the evacuation of the entire service is now carried out in the service monthly.111

11 November 2024

Firefly Childcare, Gorey · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. 1. There were inconsistencies in the recording of accidents and incidents within the service. Staff practices were not in line with the service’s policy. Staff in one room were recording accidents and incidents in a copybook and not in the services accident and incident record book. These logs in the copybook did not give an accurate account of the incident, actions taken and how the parents were informed. 2. Monthly fire drill practices were not in line with the Fire Safety in Pre-Schools 1999 guidance document. The document recommends that fire drills should include a monthly complete evacuation of the children from the premises to a place of safety in the open air. The service only carries out individual room fire drills. 3. Fire assembly points were not clearly identified on the premises. Infection Control: 4. Nappy changing in the ECCE room was carried out on a mat on the floor of a toilet attached to the preschool room which was not appropriate for staff and children and posed as an infection control risk. This was non-compliant on the last inspection. 5. Mops and buckets were stored in the toilet of the ECCE room. This practice poses a risk of cross infection in the service. This was non-compliant on the last inspection. 6. There was no water flowing from the hot tap in the toilet of Fia’s room. There was no disposable hand paper dispenser available in the toilet. Action submitted by the Registered Provider The registered provider submitted the following response:

Provider's corrective action:

: 1. Staff have been advised to record properly in the accident/incident folder. Records will be checked weekly. 2. A whole service fire drill was carried out on the 27/11/2024 and 03/12/2024. All fire drills are carried out together now and going forward. 3. These are marked by a fire point sign and were in situ on the day of inspection. 4. A carpenter is going to make a unit for us and steps are ordered to go with it. 5. Cleaning equipment stored in shed outside and we will ensure proper storage of cleaning products going forward. 6. This tap stopped working and was in need of repair, we were waiting on proper taps to come in, these have since been fixed and are now in working order

24 October 2024

Smart Kidz, Enniscorthy · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1.The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. Garda vetting was available for all staff members. However, one staff member’s vetting disclosure was not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 renewal of Garda vetting. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

Following the inspection Garda vetting was applied for the staff member and subsequently received back. An excel spreadsheet has been set up for all staff which includes current vetting date and renewal dates. These have been printed and put on the wall beside staff roster so it shouldn’t be missed again

17 October 2024

Daisy Daycare Creche, New Ross · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

The service did not demonstrate full compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate regulatory notice requiring services to renew all Garda vetting every 3 years. There was 1 staff member who did not have their Garda vetting renewed in line with the regulatory notice. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

Garda vetting has been renewed for the staff member and is now in place on file in the service. The registered provider will monitor dates of Garda vetting in the service and will renew as required to comply with the regulatory notice

4 July 2024

Ard Aoibhinn Services, Wexford · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1.The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every 3 years. Garda vetting was available for all staff. However, these vetting disclosures were not dated within the previous 3 years in adherence with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 renewal of Garda vetting. It is acknowledged that the registered provider has a history of compliance with this requirement and had plans in place to renew Garda vetting during the summer. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

All staff Garda vetting was renewed immediately. The service has an electronic system that identifies all staff Garda vetting renewal dates and when they will expire (3 years) and will ensure there are no longer delays going forward

21 May 2024

The Children’s Learning Garden, Enniscorthy · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The service did not demonstrate compliance with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice requiring services to re-new Garda vetting every three years. Garda vetting was available for five staff members. However, these vetting disclosures were not dated within the previous three years in adherence to with the Early Years Inspectorate Regulatory Notice EYI-RN12.3 renewal of Garda vetting. It is acknowledged that the registered provider has a history of compliance with this requirement and had plans in place to renew Garda vetting and update staff training during the summer. Action submitted by the Registered Provider General Safety:

Provider's corrective action:

: The registered provider submitted the following response: All 5 staff applied for new Garda vetting on the evening of the inspection. I will ensure it is completed every 3 years going forward

22 March 2024

Sugradh Childcare Centre, New Ross · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

The water flowing from the hot taps in the service was cold on the day of inspection. Children and staff attending a preschool service are required to have access to warm thermostatically controlled water at all times to support handwashing in the service to prevent cross infection. The inspector acknowledges there was a maintenance person working on the system on the day of inspection. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

The hot water system has been repaired. There is warm water to support hand washing available to the children in the service

8 February 2024

Rainbow Childcare at Tara Villa, Barntown · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

Infection Control:
There was no warm water available for hand washing in the busy bees toilets and happy hippos nappy changing area
There were inconsistencies observed in nappy changing practices. For example, not all children had their hands washed after nappy changing and the nappy changing mat was not cleaned after some nappy changes. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

The timer for the hot water tank servicing the two areas is now working correctly. Staff have been re-trained regarding nappy changing procedure and signs in the nappy change area remind them to wash hands and the changing mat after each nappy change. Spot checks on the availability of hot water are carried out and the timer can be accessed if the hot water runs out

16 January 2024

Little Acorns Montessori, Camolin · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

Infection Control: 1. There was no warm water available for hygienic hand washing. 2. The toilet doors were propped open which increases the risk of cross contamination. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

Infection Control: 1. A new water heater was purchased. 2. The doors will no longer be propped open

11 December 2023

Bright Beginnings, Castlebridge · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

Infection control: 1. Formula bottles did not come into the service pre-prepared in line with safe food guidelines which poses a risk of contamination. 2. Nappy changing mats in the Red Robbin and Yellow Tigers rooms were torn, which poses an infection control risk as the mats cannot be adequately cleaned. 3. Sweeping brushes were left stored in the baby room and accessible to crawling children

Provider's corrective action:

The registered provider submitted the following response to address the non-compliant findings: Corrective and Preventive Action: 1. All parents within the Baby room have been sent the Bottle Formula Policy. This policy is also now displayed within the room. The bottles will be checked upon arrival by staff to ensure they are made up. 2. All mats have been replaced. The Red Robin’s mat was replaced on the day of inspection once it was noted there was a tear by a spare that we have. Yellow Tigers was replaced on 8 December. Extra changing mats were purchased and are on- site now as spare in the event a tear in a mat. 3. Sweeping brush has been removed from the room and hanging on secure hook just outside the door out of reach of children

30 November 2023

First Steps Ferns Childcare, Enniscorthy · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

General Safety: 1. The door to the ECCE room was propped open during the morning. The door to the room was located at the top of the stairs. It is acknowledged that the staff closed the door when requested by the inspector. Infection Control: 2. Nappy changing observed in the morning in the ECCE room was not in line with good infection control measures. A staff member who changed a child's nappy wore no apron, did not wash her hands or the child’s hands after the procedure. This posed a risk of faecal contamination and spread of gastrointestinal illness. 3. The toilet door upstairs was propped open, which poses as a risk of cross contamination. 4. The nappy changing mat in the upstairs room was torn and posed as a risk of cross contamination as it cannot be adequately cleaned. 5. The mechanical ventilation in the downstairs nappy changing area was not working fully on the day. 6. Staff in the toddler room were not clear on the correct time soothers were required to stay immersed in sterilising fluid to ensure they were sterilised. 7. There was poor attention to personal hygiene noted in the toddler room. Children’s faces were not cleaned after eating and food was observed dried around their mouths and on faces. Administration of Medication: 8. There was no individual care plan in place for a child who required monitoring and administration of medication while in the service. This was not in line with the service’s policy on administration of medication. Action submitted by the Registered Provider

Provider's corrective action:

1. The door will be kept closed. Staff were advised to ensure the ore is kept closed. A sign has been placed on the door. 2. All staff have been reminded of the nappy changing policy. The registered provider will carry out reviews of nappy changing practices in the service. 3. The toilet door will be kept closed. The restrictive device has been removed to allow children the freedom to use the toilet independently. 4. The nappy changing mat was replaced. Monthly reviews of the mats will be carried out. 5. The mechanical ventilation was replaced. A regular review of the ventilation will be carries out. 6. All staff have been updated in striation of soothers. Staff have been reminded to ensure the manufactures instructions are followed. 7. Children’s faces are cleaned on a regular basis. Children will be encouraged to independently wipe their faces and tissues at a lower level will be available. 8. A care plan has been developed in collaboration with the parents, room leader and manager. Going forward staff will ensure that a care plan is in place as required

8 March 2023

St.Brigid's Community Playgroup, Wexford · Regulation 23 — Safeguarding health, safety and welfare of child

Infection Control: 1.There was no warm water for hygienic handwashing available in the toilets in the Butterfly room. Action submitted by the Registered Provider Corrective Action: A plummer was called to fix the problem. Preventative Action: The staff will ensure there is warm water available. Evidence Submitted: Receipt from plumber. Summary Comment The requirements of the Childcare Act 1991 (Early Years Services) regulations 2016 are met

Regulation 23 in other counties